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Non-Selective Melanocortin Receptor Agonist
Melanotan II
10MG per vial
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic lactam analogue of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), in which a side-chain amide bridge between Asp5 and Lys10 locks the α-MSH(4-10) core into a constrained ring. It preserves the His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp pharmacophore shared by melanocortin agonists, while the norleucine substitution removes the oxidation-prone methionine of the native hormone and the D-phenylalanine substitution confers resistance to proteolysis that the native linear peptide lacks. It is non-selective across the melanocortin receptor family — MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R — with negligible activity at the adrenal MC2R, which responds selectively to ACTH, and it signals through Gs-coupled adenylate cyclase to raise intracellular cAMP and activate PKA/CREB.
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Research use only. Supplied for in vitro laboratory research. Not a drug, supplement, cosmetic or medical device, not approved by the TGA, and not for administration to humans or animals. See our research use conditions.
Compound signature
From confirmed structure
1024g/mol
Molar mass
74atoms
Heavy atoms
Atomic composition
C50H69N15O9
- C50
- H69
- N15
- O9
Characterised targets
- MC1R
- MC3R
- MC4R
- MC5R
Sequence
Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2
Research applications
In vitro work with melanocyte cultures has characterised the MC1R arm of that signalling: cAMP-driven CREB phosphorylation, upregulation of MITF and tyrosinase transcription, and the resulting shift in melanin synthesis towards eumelanin. Studies in rodent models have used the peptide as a pharmacological tool to interrogate central melanocortin circuits, examining MC4R signalling in hypothalamic nuclei in relation to feeding behaviour and energy balance, and MC3R/MC4R signalling in relation to sexual behaviour. Because it engages four receptor subtypes at once, it is widely employed as the reference non-selective comparator against which subtype-selective melanocortin ligands are profiled in competitive binding and cAMP accumulation assays. The contrast between its own receptor profile and that of its C-terminally deamidated analogue PT-141 has also been used in structure-activity work on the melanocortin pharmacophore.
Formulation and handling
Supplied lyophilised, typically as the acetate salt, so the mass in the vial includes counter-ion and bound water — gravimetric stock calculations should be based on the peptide content stated on the lot certificate of analysis rather than the labelled mass. The Asp-Lys lactam bridge is not disrupted by lyophilisation and the powder redissolves in water without organic co-solvent.
Intended use
Melanotan II is supplied exclusively for in vitro and non-clinical scientific research. It is not approved for human or animal therapeutic, diagnostic or medicinal use. All handling and experimentation must be carried out by trained personnel in an appropriately controlled laboratory.
Specification
- Presentation
- Vial
- Labelled strength
- 10MG
- Molecular formula
- C50H69N15O9
- Molar mass
- 1024.2 g/mol
- CAS number
- 121062-08-6
- Molecular targets
- MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R
- Appearance
- Lyophilised powder
- Storage
- 2–8 °C sealed, −20 °C long term
Values describe the compound as supplied. Analytical figures for the material in your vial are on that lot’s certificate, not here.
Certificates of analysis
None published yetEvery lot is tested by an independent laboratory and carries its own certificate. Match the lot number printed on your vial to the certificate — a certificate for a different lot tells you nothing about yours.
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