Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), originally developed at the University of Arizona. It was developed as a successor to afamelanotide (Melanotan I), an FDA-approved drug operating through a similar pathway. What distinguishes MT-2 from its predecessor is its cyclic structure, which enhances blood-brain barrier permeability and extends its half-life compared to linear melanocortin analogs.
How It Works
Melanotan II acts as a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors MC1, MC3, MC4, and MC5. Each receptor subtype plays a distinct role in research models. Activation of MC1R initiates adenylate cyclase signaling, increasing intracellular cyclic AMP levels — a cascade that activates downstream enzymes controlling melanin synthesis. MC4R activation has been studied extensively in neuroendocrine contexts, particularly in relation to energy balance and appetite regulation. Within controlled laboratory systems, MT-2 is utilized as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist to examine MC4R-mediated signaling with strong receptor-binding affinity.
Where the Research Stands
MT-2’s non-selective receptor profile makes it a versatile tool for comparative melanocortin research. It is widely studied with applications in pigmentation biology, immune signaling research, neuroendocrine communication, metabolic regulation, and neuroinflammatory modeling. Its research legacy also includes the development of derivative compounds — notably bremelanotide (PT-141), which was synthesized specifically to isolate MC4R-mediated effects while minimizing pigmentation activity.
Product Details
- Form: Lyophilized powder
- Size: 10mg per vial
- Purity: ≥99% | COA available on request
- Storage: Keep dry and away from light before reconstitution. Refrigerate after reconstitution.
Research Use Only
Melanotan II is intended strictly for laboratory research by qualified professionals. It is not FDA approved and is not for human or animal use. By purchasing, the buyer confirms the product will be used solely for in vitro research in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
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