Melanotan II

Melanotan II

Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analogue of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), developed at the University of Arizona as part of a programme to investigate melanocortin receptor agonists for photoprotection research. It is a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist with activity at MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, and has been extensively studied in preclinical research for its effects on pigmentation, energy homeostasis, sexual function, and inflammation. Melanotan II is structurally related to PT-141 (Bremelanotide), which is a metabolite formed by hydrolysis of the lactam bridge.

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan II activates all five melanocortin receptor subtypes (MC1R–MC5R) with varying affinity. MC1R activation on melanocytes stimulates eumelanin synthesis via cAMP-dependent upregulation of tyrosinase, increasing skin pigmentation. MC3R and MC4R activation in the hypothalamus modulates energy balance, appetite suppression, and autonomic nervous system activity — including effects on dopaminergic reward circuitry relevant to sexual arousal research. MC5R activation influences exocrine gland secretion. The broad receptor profile of Melanotan II makes it a useful pharmacological tool for dissecting melanocortin receptor subtype contributions to pigmentation, metabolism, and neuroendocrine regulation.

Research Applications

• Melanocortin receptor (MC1R–MC5R) pharmacology and subtype selectivity studies
• Melanogenesis, eumelanin synthesis, and pigmentation biology research
• Hypothalamic energy homeostasis and appetite regulation investigation
• MC4R-mediated autonomic and neuroendocrine signalling research
• Photoprotection and UV-induced DNA damage preclinical models

Specifications

• Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉ • xC₂H₄O₂
• Molecular Weight: 1024.2 g/mol
• CAS Number: 121062-08-6
• Purity: ≥98%
• Form: Lyophilised powder
• Storage: -20°C
• Shelf Life: 24 months

This product is intended for legitimate laboratory and analytical research use only. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumer use.