Melanotan I

Description

Melanotan I (α-MSH Analog / Melanocortin Receptor Agonist)

Molecular Formula: C₇₈H₁₁₁N₂₁O₁₉
Molecular Weight: 1,645.9 g/mol
Sequence: Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH₂
CAS Number: 75921-69-6
Purity: ≥98% (HPLC)
Form: Lyophilized Powder
Storage: Store at −20 °C. Protect from light and moisture.

Description

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that selectively activates melanocortin-1 (MC1R) and related receptors. It serves as a valuable research compound for exploring melanogenesis, photoprotection, and melanocortin signaling pathways.

By stimulating MC1R on melanocytes, Melanotan I increases eumelanin synthesis and promotes pigmentation without UV-induced damage. Additionally, studies indicate potential roles in anti-inflammatory modulation, DNA repair enhancement, and cellular stress response signaling.

Due to its receptor selectivity and metabolic stability, Melanotan I provides a consistent model compound for examining melanocortin receptor pharmacology, skin physiology, and peptide–receptor interactions.

Intended Use

This product is intended for laboratory research use only.
It is not for human consumption, diagnostic, or therapeutic applications.
All handling should be performed by qualified professionals in a controlled research environment.

Key Research Applications

• Investigation of melanocortin receptor activation (MC1R–MC5R)

• Studies on melanogenesis, pigmentation, and photoprotective signaling

• Research on DNA repair, oxidative stress, and inflammation modulation

• Analysis of peptide structure–activity relationships in the melanocortin system