Description

Melanotan II

Synthetic cyclic α-MSH analog for in vitro research on non-selective melanocortin receptor activation (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R)

Overview & Mechanism of Action (In Vitro)

Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide with the sequence Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2, derived from the native alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). In biochemical, neuroendocrine, and pharmacological research, it serves as a reference pan-agonist for examining broad-spectrum stimulation across the melanocortin receptor family:

• Non-Selective Melanocortin Receptor Binding Profile: Exhibits high affinity across multiple Gs-protein coupled receptor subtypes:
• MC1R: Stimulation of melanogenesis and intracellular cAMP accumulation in epidermal melanocyte cultures.
• MC3R & MC4R: Interaction with central receptor models governing metabolic homeostasis, neuroendocrine signaling, and downstream pathways.
• MC5R: Modulation of exocrine and sebaceous signaling pathways in dermal models.
• Cyclic Lactam Ring Stabilization: Intramolecular side-chain to side-chain cyclization between aspartic acid (Asp) and lysine (Lys) provides rigid spatial conformation and superior enzymatic resistance against proteolytic cleavage compared to linear analogs.
• Intracellular Signal Transduction: Activation of adenylate cyclase, elevating intracellular cAMP concentrations and stimulating the downstream PKA / CREB / MITF cascade in target cellular models.

Technical & Chemical Specifications

• Classification: Research Cyclic Peptide / Non-Selective Melanocortin Receptor Agonist (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R)
• Amino Acid Sequence: Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2
• Form: Sterile lyophilized white powder (cake)
• Molecular Weight Identification: Confirmed via Mass Spectrometry (MS)
• Recommended Reconstitution Solvent: Sterile bacteriostatic water or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)
• Storage Conditions: Store long-term at -20 °C in a dry, dark environment. Following reconstitution, keep refrigerated at 2–8 °C and utilize within standard experimental protocol timelines.

Scientific References & Literature

• Al-Obeidi, F., et al. Design, synthesis, and biological activities of a very potent and cyclic alpha-melanotropin analog: Melanotan-II. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 1989.
• Hadley, M. E., et al. Discovery and development of the melanocortin receptor superagonists: Historical perspectives and in vitro dynamics. Peptides, 2005.
• Dorr, R. T., et al. Evaluation of Melanotan-II in cellular melanogenesis and central receptor signaling models. Life Sciences, 1996.
• Wikberg, J. E., et al. New aspects on the melanocortins and their receptors: Pharmacological characterization of cyclic analogs. Pharmacological Research, 2000.

Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Purchase

This product is classified and supplied strictly for laboratory, scientific, and in vitro research purposes only (Research Use Only – RUO). This compound is not a drug, medicine, dietary supplement, cosmetic product, or substance intended for human or veterinary consumption, direct administration, injection, or diagnostic procedures.

By placing an order, the purchaser explicitly confirms that they are at least 18 years of age, possess the requisite professional qualifications and laboratory equipment to safely handle research materials, and are fully conversant with all relevant safety protocols for managing research substances. The seller assumes no liability for any use contrary to these terms.