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Melanotan 2 10mg - Research Peptide
Tanning 10mg

Melanotan 2

$89.00 In Stock

Cyclic heptapeptide alpha-MSH analogue for pigmentation and arousal research.

≥98%
HPLC Purity
COA
Included
USA
Based Supplier

Description

Cyclic heptapeptide alpha-MSH analogue for pigmentation and arousal research.

Melanotan 2 is a cyclic heptapeptide analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) with the sequence Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2. Its cyclic structure confers enhanced metabolic stability and broad melanocortin receptor affinity, activating MC1R (pigmentation), MC3R (energy homeostasis), MC4R (sexual function and appetite), and MC5R (exocrine gland function). This multi-receptor activity profile distinguishes it from more selective melanocortin analogues and accounts for its diverse range of biological effects observed in research settings. Originally developed at the University of Arizona by Hruby and colleagues, Melanotan 2 was first characterized in studies published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (1989), where its potent melanotropic activity was established. Subsequent research by Dorr et al. in Archives of Dermatological Research demonstrated dose-dependent increases in skin pigmentation without UV exposure. Studies in Neuroscience by Wessells et al. documented that MC4R activation by Melanotan 2 produced pro-erectile effects in animal models, findings that later informed the development of PT-141 (Bremelanotide), which was derived directly from Melanotan 2 as a more targeted therapeutic candidate. Compared to Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide), which is linear and MC1R-selective, Melanotan 2's cyclic structure gives it broader receptor coverage and higher potency per mole. However, this reduced selectivity means research must account for concurrent effects across multiple melanocortin pathways. Both peptides share the Nle4/D-Phe7 substitutions that distinguish them from native alpha-MSH. Lyophilized Melanotan 2 should be stored at -20°C, protected from light. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water and store at 2-8°C, using within 4 weeks. Researchers in dermatology, sexual medicine, neuropharmacology, and melanocortin receptor biology are the primary investigators of this compound.

This product is supplied as a lyophilized powder and is intended for laboratory and research use only. Not for human consumption. Each vial contains 10mg of research-grade material.

Research Applications

  • Melanogenesis without UV exposure
  • Nerve injury and sensory recovery
  • Arousal signaling via MC4R
  • Neurodevelopmental signaling studies

Specifications

Size
10mg
Purity
≥98% (HPLC)
Form
Lyophilized Powder
Molecular Formula
C50H69N15O9
Molecular Weight
1024.19 g/mol

Storage & Handling

  • Long-term storage: -20°C in a sealed, light-protected container
  • Short-term storage: 2-8°C (refrigerated) for up to 30 days
  • Reconstituted: Store at 2-8°C and use within 30 days
  • Avoid: Repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct sunlight, and moisture exposure
  • Reconstitution: Use bacteriostatic water or sterile water for injection

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Melanotan 2 and how does it work?
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide (Ac-Nle-Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys-NH2) that acts as a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors MC-1R through MC-5R. It was designed as a more potent and stable analogue of alpha-MSH. The cyclic structure confers enhanced receptor binding and enzymatic resistance. Through MC-1R activation, it stimulates melanogenesis; through MC-3R and MC-4R, it influences sexual arousal and appetite signaling pathways.
What research has been done on Melanotan 2?
Research at the University of Arizona (published in Life Sciences) first characterized Melanotan 2's melanogenic properties. Studies showed UV-independent tanning in human volunteers. Published work in Peptides journal demonstrated penile erection in males as an MC-4R-mediated effect, leading to the development of PT-141 (bremelanotide). Additional research has explored Melanotan 2's effects on nerve regeneration, neurodevelopmental signaling, and MC-4R-mediated metabolic pathways.
How does Melanotan 2 compare to PT-141 (Bremelanotide)?
PT-141 was derived from Melanotan 2 by removing its pigmentation activity. Melanotan 2 activates all five melanocortin receptors, producing pigmentation (MC-1R), sexual arousal (MC-3R/4R), and other effects. PT-141 was engineered for greater MC-3R/4R selectivity, reducing pigmentation effects. PT-141 has FDA approval and extensive clinical data. Researchers choose Melanotan 2 when studying broad melanocortin signaling or pigmentation pathways.
What is the recommended reconstitution protocol for Melanotan 2?
For this 10mg vial, reconstitute with 2mL of bacteriostatic water for a 5mg/mL solution. Melanotan 2 (1024.19 g/mol) dissolves within 2-3 minutes. The cyclic structure provides good stability in solution. Add water along the vial wall. Store reconstituted solution at 2-8°C, protected from light, and use within 30 days.
What purity testing is performed on Melanotan 2?
Melanotan 2 is tested via HPLC for minimum 98% purity with attention to cyclic peptide integrity (linear impurity indicates incomplete cyclization). Mass spectrometry confirms the molecular weight (1024.19 g/mol). Chiral analysis verifies the D-Phe configuration. Amino acid analysis, endotoxin testing, and residual solvent analysis are performed. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is included.

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Research Use Only. This product is not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or diagnostic purposes. All peptides sold by Elyte Peptides are strictly for in-vitro research and laboratory use. By purchasing, you agree to use this product in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.