1. What is Melanotan‑1?
Melanotan-1, also known as afamelanotide, is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It interacts with melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R, to increase eumelanin production in the skin, which enhances natural photoprotection.
It has been extensively studied in relation to photosensitivity disorders such as erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), and is distinct from Melanotan-II due to its higher receptor selectivity and reduced off-target activity.
2. Melanotan‑1 Structure
Molecular Formula：C₇₈H₁₁₁N₂₁O₁₉
Molecular Weight：1646.85g/mol
CAS Number：75921-69-6
3. Melanotan‑1 Research
[1] Mechanism of Action
Acts primarily via MC1R receptors on melanocytes to increase eumelanin synthesis, enhancing protection from UV-induced damage.
Secondary effects through MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R suggest broader roles in immune modulation, energy balance, and neuroendocrine signaling.【1】
[2] Preclinical & Clinical Findings
Human studies confirm accelerated tanning responses and reduction in UV-induced skin damage indicators, with generally mild side effects.
Clinical research in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) shows improved tolerance to light exposure, now formally recognized in therapeutic settings.【2】
[3] Clinical Use in Photosensitivity Disorders
In the EU, US, and Australia, afamelanotide is available under the name Scenesse®, approved for EPP management.
Research continues into additional dermatological and metabolic applications.【3】
✅ Why Consider Melanotan-1?
🌞 Enhances eumelanin levels, improving natural UV resilience
🛡️ Reduces sunburn risk and UV-induced damage markers
👩⚕️ Supports management of rare photosensitivity disorders (e.g., EPP)
🔬 Studied for immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory roles
🧬 Distinct from unregulated peptides, with clinically validated safety data
4. Future Melanotan‑1 Research
A. Cancer Prevention & Photoprotection
Exploration of melanin’s chemopreventive role in skin cancer.【4】
B. Autoimmune & Inflammation Research
MC1R agonists may help regulate immune and inflammatory pathways in disorders such as IBD, rheumatoid arthritis, and dermatitis.【5】
C. Neuroendocrine & Behavioral Pathways
Investigations into effects on appetite, libido, and metabolic balance, linked to MC4R and MC5R receptor activity.
D. Novel Formulation Development
Research into controlled-release technologies (such as depot or patch systems) for long-term photoprotection.
E. Long-Term Safety Studies
Ongoing pharmacovigilance to monitor potential links with mole/nevi changes and melanoma risk.
5. Application Area
🌞 Dermatology & Photoprotection – Controlled pigmentation and UV resilience
🧴 Photosensitivity Disorders – Investigated in EPP, polymorphic light eruption, and related conditions
🛡️ UV Damage Prevention – Reduction of photodamage markers
🔬 Immunomodulation – Potential role in chronic inflammatory pathways
🧠 Neuroendocrine Research – Appetite, mood, and systemic signaling
✅ Summary
Melanotan-1 (afamelanotide) is a well-characterized melanocortin analog with significant evidence supporting its roles in skin photoprotection, photosensitivity disorder management, and immunomodulation research. It is distinguished from unregulated market products by its clinical validation and safety monitoring, and continues to be studied for broader applications in dermatology, metabolic health, and inflammation research.
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ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat, or cure any medical condition, ailment, or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
