Melanotan II is a cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-MSH and a non-selective agonist at the melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R), studied for its stimulation of melanogenesis and its effects on MC4R-mediated pathways. Supplied as a ≥99% HPLC-verified lyophilized powder for laboratory research use only.
€ 29.99
60 in stock
Third-Party Tested by Janoshik Analytical
Compound Information
Technical specifications
Lyophilized powder; keep sealed, dry, and protected from light
Store at a stable temperature; minimize warming/cooling cycles
Aliquot after reconstitution; avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles
Lyophilized Powder
-20°C preferred; 2–8°C for short-term handling
Reconstituted
2–8°C
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), originally developed in university research as a probe for the melanocortin receptor system. Its defining structural feature is a lactam bridge between the Asp and Lys residues, which locks the peptide into a constrained ring conformation — this rigidity confers markedly greater receptor affinity and metabolic stability than the linear native hormone. It is a non-selective agonist, binding across MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, which is precisely why it remains a workhorse reference compound: investigators studying melanogenesis via MC1R and those studying MC4R-mediated central pathways both use it as a benchmark ligand. Its broad receptor profile also makes it the standard comparator against which selective melanocortin agonists are characterized. Supplied as a high-purity lyophilized powder for reproducible in-vitro and approved in-vivo work. This product is for laboratory research and development purposes only and must be handled by qualified professionals. Not for human, therapeutic, or diagnostic use.
Cyclic Lactam Structure
An Asp–Lys lactam bridge constrains the peptide into a rigid ring, conferring greater receptor affinity and stability than linear α-MSH.
Non-Selective Agonist
Binds across MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R — a broad profile that makes it useful as a pan-melanocortin reference ligand.
Melanogenesis Studies
MC1R activation drives eumelanin synthesis in melanocytes — the basis for its use in pigmentation and photoprotection research.
MC4R Pathway Research
Central MC4R signaling is a major focus in energy-balance and behavioral study models, with MT-2 as a standard agonist probe.
Benchmark Comparator
Its broad activity makes it the standard against which newer receptor-selective melanocortin agonists are characterized.
≥99% HPLC Purity
Every batch is HPLC-verified and supplied lyophilized, ensuring reproducible results across long study timelines.
