What is Melanotan II?
Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide belonging to the class of melanocortin receptor agonists. This peptide was originally developed at the University of Arizona in the 1980s as part of research into skin pigmentation and UV protection. The molecular formula of Melanotan II is C50H69N15O9 with a molecular weight of 1024.2 Da. The peptide structure consists of seven amino acids in a cyclic configuration: Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2. This unique cyclic structure ensures increased stability and biological activity compared to linear peptides.
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II acts as a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors, specifically MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. The peptide binds to these G-protein coupled receptors and activates the adenylyl cyclase pathway, resulting in increased intracellular cAMP levels. In melanocytes, MT-2 binding to MC1R stimulates the production of eumelanin via activation of the enzyme tyrosinase. This leads to increased melanin synthesis and distribution in skin cells. Additionally, by binding to MC4R receptors in the central nervous system, Melanotan II affects appetite and energy homeostasis through modulation of hypothalamic circuits.
Research Results
Preclinical studies have shown significant effects of Melanotan II in various research models. A study published in Endocrinology (1998) demonstrated that MT-2 administration in mice resulted in a 300% increase in melanin production within 72 hours of treatment. Research by Wessells et al. (2000) showed that Melanotan II in rats caused a dose-dependent reduction in food intake of 15-40% at doses of 0.1-1.0 mg/kg. In vitro studies with human melanocytes showed a 5-fold increase in tyrosinase activity after 48 hours of exposure to 10⁻⁷ M MT-2. Pharmacological studies have determined a half-life of 33 minutes after intravenous administration, with a biological duration of action of 6-8 hours.
Available Variants and Purity
Dutch Peptide Labs offers Melanotan II in a 10mg variant for €49. Our Melanotan II is produced according to pharmaceutical GMP standards and achieves a purity of at least 99.9% as confirmed by HPLC analysis. Each batch is independently tested by external laboratories to verify purity, identity, and strength. The peptide is supplied as a lyophilized white powder in sterile glass vials under an inert gas atmosphere. All products are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) with detailed specifications and test results.
Storage and Handling
Melanotan II should be stored at -20°C in a frozen state for long-term storage for up to 24 months. At refrigerator temperature (2-8°C), the peptide remains stable for 3-6 months. For reconstitution, it is recommended to use bacteriostatic water or sterile saline, with the reconstituted peptide being stable for a maximum of 30 days at 2-8°C. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing to prevent peptide degradation. Protect from light and moisture during storage and handling.
Research Disclaimer
This product is intended exclusively for scientific research and laboratory use by qualified researchers. Melanotan II is not approved for human consumption, medical treatment, or diagnostic purposes. Dutch Peptide Labs bears no responsibility for misuse of this product. Users must comply with all applicable local and national regulations regarding the possession and use of research peptides.
