Melanotan II: research overview
What Is Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic, cyclic analogue of alpha-MSH, the naturally occurring melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Alpha-MSH is derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and takes part in the regulation of skin pigmentation and many processes controlled by melanocortin receptors.
The modifications made relative to the natural molecule make Melanotan II a frequently used tool in melanocortin receptor research. Its structure is well described in the literature, and every batch sold by MOLEVIA is supplied as a reagent for laboratory research.
Mechanism Described in Research
Melanotan II is a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors. It binds several subtypes, including MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R. The most frequently described pathway runs through MC1R on melanocytes.
Once the ligand binds, a G protein is activated and intracellular cAMP rises. In cell-based studies this increases the activity of enzymes involved in melanin synthesis, which makes Melanotan II a convenient reference point for melanogenesis research.
Research Areas
- Melanogenesis and melanocyte biology in cell models
- Skin pigmentation and melanocyte responses in animal model studies
- Pharmacology of melanocortin receptors MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R
- cAMP signalling in melanocytes and other cell types
- Structural comparisons with natural alpha-MSH and other melanocortin analogues
The literature also describes clinical studies of Melanotan II focused on skin pigmentation. This makes the compound a well-documented reference point for preclinical models.
Reagent Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | Melanotan II |
| CAS number | 121062-08-6 |
| Molecular formula | C50H69N15O9 |
| Molecular weight | 1024.2 g/mol |
| Form | lyophilized powder |
| Purity | ≥ 99% (HPLC) |
| Available sizes | 10 mg |
Working in the Laboratory
Storing the Lyophilized Powder
- Temperature: -20 °C, in a tightly sealed vial.
- Protection: keep away from light and moisture.
- Before opening: let the vial reach room temperature to limit condensation.
Reconstitution and Storing the Solution
- Solvent: bacteriostatic water is the standard solvent in laboratory work. Diluted acetic acid is used when the literature points to better solubility in an acidic environment.
- After dissolving: store the solution at 2-8 °C.
- Freezing: avoid repeated freezing and thawing, and divide the solution into smaller aliquots.
Quality of Every Batch
Each batch is tested by HPLC, which confirms purity of ≥ 99%. Mass spectrometry (MS) confirms the molecular weight of 1024.2 g/mol.
Ordering and Shipping
| Service | Condition |
|---|---|
| Same-day dispatch | Orders placed by 14:00 on business days |
| InPost parcel locker in Poland | Next business day |
| DPD across 29 European countries | 2-4 business days |
| Free shipping | From 75 EUR, 65 GBP, 80 USD |
| Quantity discount | 2 pcs 5%, 3 pcs 10%, 5 pcs 15% |
Pay online by card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or BLIK (PLN only).
Related Products
- Melanotan I, a second melanocortin analogue in our range
- PT-141, from the same melanocortin receptor family
- GHK-Cu, a peptide from the skin category
Browse the full skin peptides category, review our quality standards, or convert concentrations in the concentration calculator.
