Melanotan 2 (MT-2): Comprehensive Research Compound Profile
Melanotan 2 (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Developed at the University of Arizona, MT-2 is a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist that activates MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R subtypes. It has been extensively researched for its effects on pigmentation, sexual function, and appetite regulation.
Molecular Profile
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sequence | Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂ |
| Molecular Formula | C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉ |
| Molecular Weight | 1024.18 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 121062-08-6 |
| Type | Cyclic heptapeptide |
| Receptor Targets | MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R |
| Storage | -20°C lyophilized |
Mechanism of Action
MC1R Activation — Pigmentation
MC1R is expressed on melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). When MT-2 activates MC1R, it stimulates eumelanin synthesis through the cAMP/PKA pathway, leading to increased skin pigmentation. This mechanism is the basis for MT-2’s pigmentation effects observed in research.
MC4R Activation — Sexual Function & Appetite
MC4R activation in the hypothalamus modulates two key physiological processes — sexual arousal (via the medial preoptic area) and appetite regulation (via the paraventricular nucleus). MT-2’s MC4R agonism has been extensively studied for both effects.
MC3R Activation — Energy Homeostasis
MC3R is involved in energy balance and metabolic regulation. MT-2’s action on MC3R contributes to its effects on fat metabolism and energy partitioning observed in animal models.
Key Research Areas
Pigmentation Research
MT-2 has been studied as a potential photoprotective agent. Research has shown increased melanin production without UV exposure, enhanced tanning response when combined with UV exposure, and potential protective effects against UV-induced DNA damage through increased eumelanin.
Sexual Dysfunction Research
MT-2’s MC4R agonism has been investigated for both male and female sexual dysfunction. The related compound bremelanotide (PT-141), derived from MT-2 research, received FDA approval in 2019 for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women — validating the melanocortin pathway as a therapeutic target.
Appetite and Obesity Research
Central MC4R activation suppresses appetite and food intake. MT-2 research in animal models has demonstrated reduced food consumption, decreased body weight in diet-induced obesity models, and improved insulin sensitivity markers.
Melanotan 2 vs PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
| Feature | Melanotan 2 | PT-141 (Bremelanotide) |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Cyclic heptapeptide | Cyclic heptapeptide (metabolite of MT-2) |
| MC1R Activity | Yes (pigmentation) | Minimal |
| MC4R Activity | Yes | Yes (primary target) |
| Pigmentation Effect | Significant | Minimal |
| Sexual Function Effect | Yes | Yes (FDA-approved) |
| Regulatory Status | Research compound | FDA-approved (Vyleesi) |
Research-Grade MT-2 from Aarise Healthcare
Aarise Healthcare supplies high-purity Melanotan 2 (≥98% HPLC) for qualified research institutions. Browse our catalog or contact us for research compound inquiries.
Related Articles
- TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4) Research Guide — Mechanism, Studies & Lab Protocols
- PEG-MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) Research Guide — Mechanism, Studies & Protocols
- Ipamorelin Peptide Research Guide — Growth Hormone Secretagogue Mechanism & Studies
- PT-141 (Bremelanotide) Research Guide — Melanocortin Agonist Mechanism & Applications
Also from Aarise Group:
