1. What is Melanotan-2?
Melanotan-2 (MT-II) is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It activates melanocortin receptors involved in pigmentation, sexual behavior, appetite regulation, and energy balance. Originally developed to study enhanced melanin production and photoprotection, MT-II is now widely researched for its multifaceted neuroendocrine and metabolic effects.
2. Melanotan-2 Structure
Sequence: Nle-Asp(1)-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys(1)
Molecular Formula:C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉
Molecular Weight:1024.198 g/mol
PubChem CID: 92432
CAS Number:121062-08-6
3.Melanotan‑2 Research
[1] Key Functional Pathways
l Pigmentation: MT-II binds to MC1R on melanocytes, enhancing eumelanin synthesis and supporting natural photoprotection.
l Sexual Arousal: Through MC4R activation in the hypothalamus, MT-II influences sexual behavior and arousal in both sexes.【1】
l Appetite Regulation: MC4R involvement also leads to reduced hunger and improved energy balance.【2】
l Immune & Cardiovascular Effects: Research suggests MT-II may modulate inflammatory pathways, though transient cardiovascular effects have also been observed.
[2] Research Observations
l Studies confirm MT-II enhances skin pigmentation, modulates appetite, and influences sexual health.
l Side effects reported in research include flushing, nausea, fatigue, appetite reduction, and pigmentation changes (e.g., moles or freckles).
l Rare events such as rhabdomyolysis and renal effects have been noted in isolated reports.【3】
✅ Why Consider Melanotan-2 (Research Context)?
🌞 Promotes melanin production and photoprotection
❤️ Studied for sexual health and libido modulation
🍽️ Demonstrates effects on appetite control and weight management
🛡️ Exhibits anti-inflammatory signaling via melanocortin pathways
⏳ Produces sustained pigment response in research models
4. Future Melanotan‑2 Research
A. Selective Receptor Analogs
Development of derivatives focusing on MC4R (sexual & metabolic effects) while excluding pigmentation.
Example: Bremelanotide (PT-141) as a clinically approved MC4R-focused analog.【4】
B. Advanced Formulations
Research on nasal sprays, patches, and depot systems to improve stability and reduce systemic effects.
C. Long-Term Dermatologic Monitoring
Ongoing evaluation of mole pigmentation and potential melanoma risk.【5】
D. Weight & Metabolic Research
Investigated in obesity trials for appetite suppression and metabolic regulation.
E. Inflammation & Autoimmune Pathways
Early studies suggest potential roles in psoriasis, eczema, and IBD, pending clinical validation.【6】
5.Application Area
· 🌞 Cosmetic & Dermatology Research – Pigmentation and photoprotection
· ❤️ Sexual Health Research – Erectile function and libido studies
· 🍽️ Weight Management Research – Appetite regulation and metabolic modulation
· 🛡️ Immunology – Inflammatory pathway exploration
· 🧠 Neuroendocrine Studies – Appetite, arousal, and stress modulation
⚠️6. Safety & Legal Considerations
· ❌ Not approved for therapeutic use by FDA / EMA / TGA
· 🧪 Available only as a research chemical; unregulated supply carries contamination risk
· 🔬 Research indicates possible mole darkening, requiring dermatologic vigilance
· 😷 Reported side effects: flushing, nausea, pigmentation changes, and rare systemic effects
· 📋 No established long-term safety profile
⚠️ Disclaimer
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.
