MELANOTAN II

Name: MELANOTAN II
Brand: MELANOTAN II
SKU: PEPT-MT2-006
Availability: InStock

Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic lactam analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) designed exclusively for laboratory research. This potent melanocortin receptor agonist demonstrates high affinity for MC1R (melanogenesis), MC3R, and MC4R (energy homeostasis), making it a versatile tool for multi-pathway preclinical studies.

Unlike linear Melanotan 1, Melanotan II features a cyclic structure that confers enhanced enzymatic stability and prolonged activity in research models. Each lyophilised vial is synthesised to ≥99% purity, verified by independent HPLC and mass spectrometry. Researchers utilise MT-2 to investigate UV-independent melanogenesis, appetite regulation pathways, and erectile function physiology through separate melanocortin receptor mechanisms.

Key Features

Ultra-High Purity: ≥99% confirmed by third-party HPLC analysis
Cyclic Lactam Structure: Enhanced stability compared to linear analogues
Multi-Receptor Agonist: Activates MC1R, MC3R, and MC4R
Longer Research Half-Life: Extended activity window in preclinical models
Research Use Only: Not for human consumption, cosmetic use, or clinical application

Specifications

Specification	Detail
Molecular Formula	C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉
Molecular Weight	1,024.18 g/mol
Sequence	Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂
Purity	≥99% (HPLC)
Appearance	White lyophilised powder
Storage (Lyophilised)	-20°C, protected from light and moisture
Storage (Reconstituted)	2-8°C for up to 7 days; aliquot for longer storage

Research Applications

Melanotan II is widely used in preclinical studies investigating:

Melanogenesis & Photoprotection: MC1R-mediated eumelanin production without UV exposure
Energy Homeostasis & Appetite: MC3R/MC4R pathways in feeding behavior and metabolic research
Sexual Function Physiology: MC4R activation in erectile response and libido models
Neuroprotection: Melanocortin signalling in inflammation and oxidative stress

Typical Research Parameters

Parameter	Recommendation
Reconstitution	Sterile water or bacteriostatic water
In Vitro Concentration	0.1–10 µM (melanocyte or neuronal cultures)
Preclinical Dosage (Rodent)	50–250 µg/kg, subcutaneous
Onset of Melanogenesis (In Vivo)	5–10 days with daily administration

Note: These are references for laboratory protocol design only, not medical dosing instructions.

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan II exerts its research-documented effects through:

MC1R Activation: Stimulates cAMP/PKA pathway → tyrosinase upregulation → eumelanin synthesis
MC3R/MC4R Activation: Modulates hypothalamic pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) signalling → appetite suppression
Peripheral MC4R Activation: Influences cavernosal nerve signalling in erectile function models
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces cytokine production via melanocortin receptor pathways

Comparison: Melanotan I vs. Melanotan II

Feature	Melanotan I (MT-1)	Melanotan II (MT-2)
Structure	Linear heptapeptide	Cyclic lactam
MC1R Selectivity	High	Moderate
MC3R/MC4R Activity	Minimal	Significant
Enzymatic Stability	Moderate	Enhanced (cyclic structure)
Primary Research Focus	Photoprotection, EPP	Pigmentation + appetite + sexual function