Description
Chemical Identity
Melanotan-2 (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) with the molecular formula C50H69N15O9 and a molecular weight of 1024.18 Da (CAS number 121062-08-6). The amino acid sequence is Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2, featuring a cyclic structure through a lactam bridge between aspartate and lysine side chains, a norleucine substitution, and a D-phenylalanine for enhanced receptor binding and metabolic stability.
Developed at the University of Arizona, Melanotan-2 acts as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist with highest affinity for MC1R and MC4R. It is also referred to as MT-2 or Melanotan II in the research literature.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C50H69N15O9 |
| Molecular Weight | 1024.18 Da |
| CAS Number | 121062-08-6 |
| Sequence | Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 |
| Research Status | Preclinical |
Research Overview
Melanotan-2 has been investigated in preclinical and early clinical research spanning melanogenesis, sexual dysfunction, and appetite modulation. The primary mechanism involves activation of melanocortin receptors (MCRs), class A GPCRs that elevate cAMP via Gs coupling. In radioligand binding assays, Melanotan-2 binds with approximate Ki values of 0.67 nM at MC1R, 6.6 nM at MC4R, 34 nM at MC3R, and 46 nM at MC5R.
MC1R activation in melanocytes stimulates eumelanin synthesis through the cAMP-PKA-CREB-MITF signaling cascade, promoting skin pigmentation. MC4R activation in the hypothalamus modulates appetite, energy expenditure, and sexual function. The non-selectivity of Melanotan-2 across these receptors accounts for its diverse biological effects.
Key areas of published research include:
- Melanogenesis and Pigmentation: Melanotan-2 stimulates eumelanin production through MC1R activation on melanocytes, increasing skin pigmentation. This mechanism has been investigated for potential photoprotective applications and understanding of melanin biology.
- Sexual Function Research: MC4R activation in the central nervous system is linked to sexual arousal pathways. Melanotan-2’s effects on erectile function and female sexual response have been studied, leading to the development of the more selective MC4R agonist bremelanotide (PT-141).
- Appetite and Metabolic Regulation: MC4R-mediated anorexigenic effects of Melanotan-2 have been demonstrated in preclinical models, with food intake reduction abolished in MC4R-deficient mice, confirming MC4R as the mediator of appetite suppression.
Melanotan-2 is not approved for therapeutic use in any jurisdiction. Research-grade material is available for preclinical studies.
Specifications
All Melanotan-2 supplied by Prescott Bio Canada is manufactured to research-grade standards.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Purity | >98% (HPLC) |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Storage (lyophilized) | -20°C, protected from light |
| Storage (reconstituted) | 2-8°C, use within 30 days |
| Solubility | Soluble in bacteriostatic water, sterile water, or normal saline |
Each vial is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting purity, identity, and endotoxin testing.
Research Applications
Melanotan-2 is supplied exclusively for in vitro and in vivo laboratory research. Published experimental applications include:
- Melanocortin receptor pharmacology and signaling studies
- Melanogenesis and pigmentation biology research
- Appetite regulation and MC4R-mediated metabolic pathway studies
- Sexual function and central nervous system melanocortin research
- Comparative studies with selective melanocortin receptor agonists
Researchers should consult the primary literature and institutional review protocols before designing experiments with Melanotan-2.
Storage and Handling
Lyophilized powder: Store at -20°C in the original sealed vial, protected from light and moisture. Under these conditions, Melanotan-2 maintains stability for up to 24 months.
Reconstituted solution: Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or sterile water to the desired concentration. Store reconstituted Melanotan-2 at 2-8°C and use within 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Handling precautions: This product is intended for research use only (RUO). Not for human or veterinary diagnostic or therapeutic use. Handle using standard laboratory safety practices including appropriate PPE.