Research Use Only

Melanotan II

A synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) studied for its activation of melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R) in pigmentation, metabolic, and behavioral research.

MelanocortinHair & Skin
Starting at $29
Order Now Full Details →

Pricing

10mg lyophilized vial $29
🔬
COA Available
Independent purity verification
🚚
Global Shipping
6 distribution centers
🔒
Secure Checkout
Card, crypto, Zelle, CashApp
💊
Research Grade
≥98% HPLC purity
Apr 13
Ordered
Apr 14-15
Shipped
Apr 20-24
Delivered
View lab results for Melanotan II →
Route
Reconstituted for research use
Frequency
Per research protocol
Shipping
Ships worldwide from 6 distribution centers via USPS Ground Advantage
Quality
COA available. Third-party testing by Finnrick Analytical.
Compound
Formula
C50H69N15O9
MW
1,024.18 g/mol
CAS
121062-08-6

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan II functions as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. Its cyclic structure provides enhanced receptor binding affinity and metabolic stability compared to linear α-MSH. Upon binding MC1R on melanocytes, it activates adenylyl cyclase via Gs protein coupling, increasing cAMP levels and stimulating tyrosinase activity to drive melanin synthesis. At MC4R, activation modulates hypothalamic signaling pathways involved in energy balance and autonomic function. The broad receptor profile across MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R accounts for the diverse biological effects observed in research settings.

Storage & Handling
Store lyophilized at 2-8°C protected from light. Reconstituted: 2-8°C, use within 28 days.

Published Research

Superpotent melanotropin [Nle4-D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH: its biological actions, design, and synthesis
Hruby VJ, Wilkes BC, Hadley ME, et al. — Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences (1993)
A melanocortin receptor agonist produces UV-independent tanning in human skin
Dorr RT, Lines R, Levine N, et al. — Journal of Investigative Dermatology (1996)
Melanocortin receptors: targets for novel drug development
Catania A, Gatti S, Colombo G, Lipton JM. — European Journal of Pharmacology (2004)
🔬
COA Verified
🚚
Global Ship
💰
Volume Pricing

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Melanotan II?
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, and is widely used in research studying pigmentation, metabolic signaling, and melanocortin receptor pharmacology. For research use only.
What melanocortin receptors does MT-II activate?
MT-II is a non-selective melanocortin agonist that activates MC1R (involved in pigmentation and melanogenesis), MC3R and MC4R (involved in energy homeostasis and appetite regulation), and MC5R (involved in exocrine gland function). This broad receptor profile makes it a versatile tool in melanocortin research.
How should Melanotan II be stored?
Store lyophilized Melanotan II at 2-8 degrees C protected from light. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, refrigerate and use within 28 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to maintain peptide integrity.
How does Melanotan II differ from PT-141?
Both peptides are synthetic melanocortin analogs, but PT-141 (bremelanotide) was derived from Melanotan II research and is a more selective MC4R agonist. MT-II activates a broader range of melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R), making it more useful for general melanocortin pathway research, while PT-141 is studied primarily for MC4R-mediated effects.

Ready to order?

In stock. Ships within 24 hours.

Shop Now