Melanotan II

Description

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

Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉
Molecular Weight: 1,024.2 g/mol
Sequence: Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂
CAS Number: 121062-08-6
Purity: ≥98% (HPLC)
Form: Lyophilized Powder
Storage: Store at −20 °C. Protect from light and moisture.

Description

Melanotan II is a cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that acts as a broad-spectrum melanocortin receptor agonist, primarily targeting MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. It is widely utilized in research to study melanogenesis, energy homeostasis, sexual function, and inflammatory signaling.

Through activation of melanocortin pathways, Melanotan II promotes eumelanin production in melanocytes, contributing to pigmentation and photoprotection studies. Its action on MC3R and MC4R receptors also provides a model for examining hypothalamic appetite control, libido regulation, and neuroendocrine signaling.

The compound’s cyclic structure enhances metabolic stability and receptor affinity, making it a key reference peptide in melanocortin pharmacology and neuropeptide research.

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 pigmentation, photoprotection, and tanning mechanisms

• Research on hypothalamic appetite and sexual behavior pathways

• Analysis of α-MSH analog structure-activity relationships