A synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist studied for its effects on pigmentation pathways, appetite suppression, and sexual function in preclinical research models.
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a cyclic heptapeptide analogue of alpha-MSH, developed as part of a program to identify stable, potent melanocortin receptor agonists. MT-II acts as a non-selective agonist at MC1R, MC3R, and MC4R, with weaker activity at MC2R and MC5R — making it a broad-spectrum tool for melanocortin system research.
The multi-receptor binding profile supports diverse research applications: MC1R activation influences melanogenesis and pigmentation. MC3R and MC4R activation in the hypothalamus modulates energy homeostasis, food intake, and sexual function. MC4R agonism in particular has been studied in models of sexual dysfunction, connecting the melanocortin system to centrally-mediated arousal pathways independent of peripheral vascular mechanisms.
MT-II has also been used in research examining the melanocortin system's role in metabolic regulation, immune function, and inflammation. Its cyclic structure confers resistance to enzymatic degradation compared to linear α-MSH analogues, improving stability in biological media.
| Form | Lyophilized Powder |
|---|---|
| Dosage Per Vial | 10mg |
| Molecular Weight | 1024.19 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 121062-08-6 |
| Sequence / Structure | Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OH |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC verified) |
| Storage | Store at −20°C, protected from light. Reconstitute with sterile water or dilute acetic acid. |
| Research Use | In vitro / laboratory research only |
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