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Melanotan-2 is a cyclic analogue of alpha-MSH engineered for metabolic stability and potent melanocortin receptor activation. It activates MC1R (melanogenesis) and MC4R (sexual function, appetite regulation) with a much longer biological half-life than the native hormone. If you're researching the melanocortin system — pigmentation pathways, sexual function, or hypothalamic appetite control — MT-2 is the primary tool. True North Peptides supplies Melanotan-2 at ≥99% purity in 10mg lyophilised vials. For research use only.
Melanotan-2 is a synthetic cyclic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), developed by researchers at the University of Arizona. The key structural difference from linear α-MSH: the cyclic configuration and D-amino acid substitutions make it highly resistant to enzymatic degradation, giving it a dramatically extended biological half-life. The result is a more potent and longer-lasting melanocortin receptor agonist — one that researchers can use to study melanocortin pathways more effectively than with the native peptide.
MC1R — Melanogenesis Research
MC1R is expressed on melanocytes and drives eumelanin (dark pigment) synthesis in response to UV exposure. Melanotan-2's potent MC1R agonism has been studied for its ability to stimulate melanogenesis both in cell culture and animal models. Research has examined its potential role in photoprotective pathways — the idea that stimulating melanin production could reduce UV-induced DNA damage in skin.
MC4R — Sexual Function and Appetite Research
MC4R is where Melanotan-2's research profile gets broader. MC4R is expressed throughout the CNS — particularly in hypothalamic and limbic regions — and mediates sexual arousal, erectile function, and energy balance. MT-2's high affinity for MC4R has made it a key research tool in studying melanocortin-mediated sexual function. It also produces anorectic effects through hypothalamic MC4R activation, which is why it appears in body composition research as well.
Melanotan-1 vs Melanotan-2
Melanotan-1 (afamelanotide) is a linear α-MSH analogue selective for MC1R — primarily studied for melanogenesis and photoprotection research. Melanotan-2 is the cyclic version with broader activity across MC1R and MC4R. MT-2's added MC4R agonism extends its research applications well beyond pigmentation into sexual health and appetite regulation.
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilised Melanotan-2 at −20°C in a dry, light-protected environment. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water, gentle swirling. Refrigerate at 2–8°C post-reconstitution, use within 4 weeks.
Product Specifications
Peptide: Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂ | CAS: 121062-08-6 | Molecular Weight: 1,024.18 g/mol | Form: Lyophilised powder | Vial Size: 10mg | Purity: ≥99% | Storage: −20°C dry; 2–8°C post-reconstitution.
Store lyophilised product at -20°C or below. After reconstitution, store at 4°C and use within 30 days. Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
This product is intended for laboratory and research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Must be handled by qualified researchers in an appropriate facility.