Melanotan II
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• Major cities (JHB, CPT, DBN): R195 overnight
• Outlying areas: R275 (2-3 business days)
• Collect in person: Free (Sandton location)
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone ($\alpha$-MSH) that functions as a non-selective agonist across multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes. Originally developed for research into skin pigmentation and photoprotection, this peptide is a valuable tool for investigating melanocortin receptor signaling, appetite regulation, and metabolic processes. It binds to and activates MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, mediating diverse physiological effects.
- •Activates four distinct melanocortin receptor subtypes (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R).
- •Stimulates melanogenesis and skin pigmentation via MC1R activation.
- •Valuable for pharmacological studies on appetite regulation and satiety through MC3R/MC4R.
- •Used to investigate the neural pathways governing sexual function and libido (MC4R).
- •Provides insights into metabolic regulation and energy homeostasis models.
- •Demonstrates enhanced stability and a longer duration of action compared to endogenous $\alpha$-MSH.
- •Essential tool for comparative studies in melanocortin receptor pharmacology.
Melanotan II functions as a broad-spectrum melanocortin receptor agonist, exhibiting affinity for MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. Activation of MC1R, primarily found on melanocytes, stimulates the production of eumelanin through the activation of tyrosinase and other melanogenic enzymes, resulting in increased skin pigmentation and potential photoprotection. In the central nervous system, particularly the hypothalamus, the peptide modulates appetite and energy balance by activating MC3R and MC4R. This activation influences the activity of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons, typically promoting satiety and reducing food intake. Furthermore, MC4R activation is critical in neural pathways regulating sexual function. Unlike the native hormone, Melanotan II is structurally modified to resist enzymatic degradation, ensuring sustained receptor activation and prolonged experimental effects.
Melanotan II is extensively utilized in studies focusing on melanocortin receptor pharmacology and signaling diversity, serving as a standard for investigating receptor subtype selectivity. Its well-characterized effects make it indispensable for research into skin pigmentation, melanogenesis, and potential strategies for photoprotection and UV damage prevention. The peptide is a primary agent in models examining appetite regulation, obesity, and metabolic syndrome due to its potent effects on energy homeostasis via MC3R and MC4R. Additionally, its influence on MC4R signaling makes it a key tool in sexual physiology research, including investigations into the mechanisms underlying libido and erectile function. Researchers also employ Melanotan II in comparative studies with other melanocortin analogs to explore the potential for developing targeted melanocortin-based interventions for various physiological conditions.
Vial size: 10 mg lyophilised powder
Reconstitution: Add 3.0 mL of bacteriostatic water to yield a working concentration of approximately 3.33 mg/mL (3,333 mcg/mL). Inject water slowly down the vial wall. Swirl gently until dissolved. Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C.
At 3.33 mg/mL on a U-100 insulin syringe: 1 unit = 0.01 mL = 33.3 mcg.
Research Protocol Overview
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Loading phase | 250–500 mcg once daily for 1–2 weeks |
| Maintenance phase | 250–500 mcg every 2–3 days |
| Timing | Evening, after food |
| Cycle length | 4–8 weeks loading; ongoing maintenance as required |
| Route | Subcutaneous injection |
Research protocols for Melanotan II typically begin at a low dose of 250 mcg once daily during the loading phase to assess tolerability. The original Phase I clinical study by Dorr et al. (1996) used doses of 0.025 mg/kg administered subcutaneously every other day and demonstrated melanogenic activity. Maintenance dosing at lower frequencies is employed once the desired research endpoint is reached.
Storage: Lyophilised: store at −20 °C for long-term; refrigerate at 2–8 °C for short-term. Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2–8 °C; use within 4 weeks. Avoid freeze-thaw cycles.
For research use only. Not for human consumption.
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Research Use Only
This product is sold strictly for research purposes only. It is not approved by the FDA for human consumption or medical use. Intended for laboratory and research applications by qualified researchers and institutions only.