Melanotan II

Melanotan II Overview

Melanotan II is a cyclic peptide analogue of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. In research settings, it is studied for its activity across melanocortin receptor systems, particularly in models examining pigmentation signaling, central melanocortin biology, and broader peptide-receptor interactions.

Mechanism of Action & Applications

Melanotan II is studied for agonist activity at melanocortin receptors, including MC1R and other receptor subtypes within the melanocortin family. In laboratory research, this makes it useful for examining melanogenesis-related signaling, receptor pharmacology, neuroendocrine pathway activity, and broader melanocortin system behavior. It is commonly used in studies involving pigmentation biology, peptide-receptor signaling, and melanocortin-mediated cellular responses.

Research History

Melanotan II developed from earlier work on α-MSH analogues designed to create more stable and potent melanocortin receptor ligands. Research expanded from pigmentation-focused models into broader studies of melanocortin signaling, where Melanotan II became a commonly referenced peptide in preclinical receptor and pathway research.

Chemical Information

CAS Number: 121062-08-6
Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉
Molecular Weight: 1024.2 g/mol
PubChem ID: 92432
Purity: ≥99%