Melanotan II is a synthetic, cyclic analog of α-MSH (α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) that activates melanocortin receptors — most notably MC1R on skin melanocytes, driving melanin production (pigmentation).
In a human Phase I study, subcutaneous MT-II increased skin pigmentation (measured by quantitative reflectance) after only a few low doses, alongside central melanocortin effects[1].
Melanotan II is an unlicensed research compound and its long-term safety is not established; it is provided strictly for laboratory research.
Supplied as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution. Figures above summarize published clinical (Phase I) research on this molecule and are provided as scientific reference for laboratory research only.
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Melanocortin Receptor Agonist
A Synthetic α-MSH Analog for Pigmentation Research
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Developed in the 1980s, this compound targets melanocortin receptors — particularly MC1R and MC4R — making it a valuable tool for researchers investigating pigmentation mechanisms, appetite regulation, and neuroendocrine signaling pathways.
- Synthetic analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone
- Targets MC1R (pigmentation) and MC4R (neuroendocrine)
- Cyclic heptapeptide structure for enhanced stability
- Developed for melanocortin receptor research
- High purity for reliable experimental outcomes
Melanocortin Signaling
How Melanotan II Activates Pigmentation Pathways
Melanotan II binds to melanocortin receptors on melanocytes, triggering intracellular signaling cascades that stimulate melanin synthesis and distribution. Through MC1R activation, it promotes eumelanin production — the dark pigment responsible for skin and hair coloration. Its activity at MC4R has also made it relevant for appetite regulation and neuroendocrine research.
- Activates MC1R on melanocytes for melanin production
- Stimulates eumelanin synthesis (dark pigment)
- MC4R activity relevant to appetite and energy studies
- Cyclic structure provides receptor binding stability
- Effects accumulate over repeated administration
Research Applications
From Pigmentation Studies to Neuroendocrine Research
Melanotan II has become a key compound for researchers exploring the melanocortin system — one of the body's most important regulatory networks. Its multi-receptor activity makes it valuable for studies spanning pigmentation biology, appetite and feeding behavior, sexual function pathways, and broader neuroendocrine signaling mechanisms.
- Pigmentation and melanogenesis studies
- Melanocortin receptor characterization
- Appetite regulation and feeding behavior research
- Neuroendocrine signaling pathway exploration
- MC1R and MC4R selectivity studies
- Photoprotection mechanism research
The Science Behind Melanocortin Research: Why Melanotan II Matters
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide developed as an analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). First created in the 1980s at the University of Arizona, this compound has since become an important research tool for understanding the melanocortin receptor system — a network that influences pigmentation, appetite, energy balance, and sexual function.
The peptide's primary mechanism involves MC1R activation on melanocytes, which triggers cAMP-dependent pathways leading to increased melanin synthesis. Unlike natural α-MSH, Melanotan II's cyclic structure provides enhanced stability and prolonged receptor binding — making it particularly useful for sustained research protocols.
Beyond pigmentation, Melanotan II's activity at MC4R has opened research avenues into appetite regulation, energy homeostasis, and neuroendocrine function. This multi-receptor profile makes it valuable for researchers studying the broader melanocortin system and its role in metabolic and behavioral regulation.
For research teams investigating pigmentation biology, melanocortin receptor pharmacology, or neuroendocrine signaling, Melanotan II provides a well-characterized tool with decades of scientific literature supporting its receptor binding properties and biological activity.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Scientific Literature
- Tomassi S, et al. CLIPSing Melanotan-II to Discover Multiple Functionally Selective hMCR Agonists. J Med Chem. 2022;65(5):4007-4017.
- Wessells H, et al. Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study. J Urol. 1998;160(2):389-393.
- Wessells H, et al. Effect of an alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone analog on penile erection and sexual desire in men with organic erectile dysfunction. Urology. 2000;56(4):641-646.
- Eliason NL, et al. Melanocortin receptor agonist melanotan-II microinjected in the nucleus accumbens decreases appetitive and consumptive responding for food. Neuropeptides. 2022;96:102289.
- Peters B, et al. Melanotan II: a possible cause of renal infarction: review of the literature and case report. CEN Case Rep. 2020;9(2):159-161.
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Melanotan II – 10mg
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