The expression levels of mRNA for POMC, CRH receptor type 1, melanin-concentrating hormone receptor (MCHR1) and melanocortin receptors 2–4 are markedly elevated in both psoriatic lesional and non-lesional skin compared with non-psoriasis healthy controls (90), indicating the present of altered peripheral HPA in psoriatic individuals. The gene discussed is POMC; the disease is psoriasis.