What Is Melanotan II?

Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of α-MSH engineered to improve stability and receptor affinity compared with the endogenous hormone.

The peptide primarily interacts with melanocortin receptors (MC1R–MC5R), a family of G-protein-coupled receptors involved in regulating:

• Pigmentation
• Energy homeostasis
• Appetite
• Sexual function
• Inflammatory responses
• Neuroendocrine signaling

Because of its improved stability, MT-2 remains a valuable research compound in experimental pharmacology.

Mechanism of Action

MT-2 functions as a melanocortin receptor agonist.

After binding to melanocortin receptors, it activates intracellular signaling pathways—primarily through cyclic AMP (cAMP)—that influence numerous biological processes.

Depending on receptor subtype and tissue, activation has been associated in research with:

• Increased melanin synthesis
• Regulation of appetite and food intake
• Modulation of inflammatory signaling
• Changes in energy metabolism
• Neuroendocrine responses
• Pigmentation-related cellular activity

Different receptor subtypes produce distinct physiological responses, making MT-2 useful for receptor-selective research.

Summary of Publicly Available Research

Published laboratory and animal studies have explored MT-2 across several research areas, including:

• Melanocortin receptor pharmacology
• Pigmentation and melanin production
• UV-protection mechanisms
• Appetite regulation
• Energy expenditure
• Obesity models
• Sexual behavior research
• Neuroendocrine signaling
• Inflammatory pathway modulation

Although numerous experimental studies have demonstrated biological activity, evidence in humans remains limited, and MT-2 has not been established as a safe or approved therapeutic treatment for medical use.

Additional controlled research is needed to fully characterize its long-term biological effects.

Key Research Areas

Current scientific literature has investigated MT-2 in relation to:

• Melanocortin receptor biology
• Pigment cell signaling
• Melanogenesis research
• Dermatology models
• UV-response mechanisms
• Energy metabolism
• Appetite regulation
• Obesity research
• Neurobiology
• Endocrine physiology
• Inflammation research
• GPCR pharmacology

Chemical Information

Compound Name: Melanotan II (MT-2)

Peptide Type: Synthetic cyclic peptide

Parent Molecule: Alpha-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH)

Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉

Molecular Weight: Approximately 1,024.2 g/mol

Appearance: White to off-white lyophilized powder

Purity: Refer to individual Certificate of Analysis (COA)

Quantity: 10 mg per vial

Research Classification: Laboratory research compound

Storage Recommendations

For maximum peptide stability:

• Store lyophilized peptide refrigerated (2–8°C).
• Long-term storage is generally recommended at approximately -20°C.
• Protect from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep vial tightly sealed until use.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles if reconstituted for laboratory applications.
• Handle using appropriate laboratory procedures.

Certificate of Analysis (COA)

Each production batch undergoes quality-control testing.

Typical COA documentation may include:

• Product identity confirmation
• Purity analysis (commonly by HPLC)
• Molecular weight verification (Mass Spectrometry)
• Appearance inspection
• Batch/Lot number
• Manufacturing date
• Storage recommendations

Batch-specific COAs should be reviewed prior to laboratory use.

Customer Reviews

★★★★★ Excellent Laboratory Quality

“Consistent appearance and well-packaged for research applications.”

★★★★★ Reliable Product

“Batch documentation and purity met expectations for our laboratory.”

★★★★★ Professional Packaging

“Secure packaging and clearly labeled research material.”

★★★★★ Consistent Between Batches

“Reliable quality across multiple research purchases.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MT-2 approved as a medication?

No. MT-2 is not approved as a therapeutic medication in many jurisdictions and is commonly supplied only for laboratory research.

What receptors does MT-2 target?

MT-2 primarily activates melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R).

What form is supplied?

This product is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) research peptide.

How should it be stored?

Store refrigerated for routine storage or frozen for extended preservation, while protecting from moisture and light.

Is every batch tested?

Each manufacturing batch is typically accompanied by analytical testing summarized in its Certificate of Analysis.

Related Products

Researchers interested in melanocortin biology and related peptide research frequently explore:

• MT-1 (Melanotan I)
• PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
• BPC-157
• TB-500
• GHK-Cu
• CJC-1295
• Ipamorelin
• Kisspeptin-10
• GHRP-2
• GHRP-6

Research Use Only: This product is intended solely for laboratory research by qualified professionals and is not intended for human consumption or clinical use.