Overview
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with superpotent agonist activity at melanocortin receptors (primarily MC1R, MC3R, MC4R). It is widely used in laboratory and preclinical research as a model compound to investigate melanogenesis, photoprotection, energy homeostasis, sexual behavior pathways, and central melanocortin signaling in various in vitro and animal model systems.
Research Applications (Observational Data from Published Studies) The following points summarize observations reported in scientific literature from preclinical (in vitro/animal) and human studies and are provided solely for informational and research-planning purposes:
- Melanogenesis and Photoprotection Research: In rodent models and human Phase I/II trials, Melanotan II administration induced dose-dependent skin tanning via MC1R-mediated eumelanin production, reducing UV-induced DNA damage and sunburn cell formation.
- Appetite and Energy Balance Models: In diet-induced obese rodents and early human studies, Melanotan II activated MC4R pathways, significantly reducing food intake, body weight, and adiposity.
- Sexual Function and Libido Studies: In rat models and multiple human clinical trials (erectile dysfunction and female sexual dysfunction), Melanotan II triggered spontaneous erections and increased sexual desire/arousal via central MC3R/MC4R activation.
- Neuroprotection and Inflammation Research: In rodent models of brain injury and ischemia, Melanotan II reduced oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and neuronal apoptosis through MC4R-mediated mechanisms.
Important Legal Disclaimer For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic, cosmetic, or food purposes. Not approved by the FDA or any regulatory agency. Researchers are responsible for compliance with all applicable laws and institutional guidelines.
Chemical Information
- Sequence: Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂ (lactam bridge Asp-Lys)
- Common Name: Melanotan II, MT-II, Ac-Nle-c[DKHWfRK]-NH₂
- Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉
- Molecular Weight: 1024.18 g/mol
- CAS Number: 121062-08-6
- PubChem CID: 92432
Loading...