Melanotan II

Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It acts as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R. Originally developed at the University of Arizona, research has focused on its effects on melanogenesis (skin pigmentation), sexual function, and appetite regulation.

Overview

Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that has been widely studied in laboratory settings for its interaction with melanocortin receptors and associated cellular signalling pathways. It is supplied exclusively for controlled laboratory and research use and is intended only for qualified scientific investigation.

As part of Retro Wellness’ research compound range, Melanotan II is presented with a focus on consistency, quality, and responsible sourcing. Each product is intended strictly for qualified research settings and should only be handled by individuals or organisations with the appropriate facilities, knowledge, and procedures.

Research involving Melanotan II has explored its interaction with biological pathways associated with melanocortin receptor activation, pigment regulation, neuroendocrine signalling, energy homeostasis, and receptor-mediated cellular communication. It has also been investigated in broader studies examining melanocortin biology, endocrine signalling, and molecular mechanisms across a range of experimental models. Ongoing research continues to expand understanding of its biological activity and potential relevance within dermatological, neuroendocrine, and molecular research.

This product is not a medicine, supplement, cosmetic, or food product. It is not intended for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, or consumption.

What Research Has Explored

  • Stimulates melanogenesis and skin pigmentation in research models
  • Studied for effects on sexual arousal and function
  • May influence appetite and food intake via central melanocortin pathways
  • Potential protective effects against UV radiation damage in pigmentation research

How It Works

Melanotan II activates melanocortin receptors, primarily MC1R (melanogenesis), MC3R and MC4R (sexual function and appetite). At MC1R on melanocytes, it stimulates cAMP production, activating tyrosinase which increases eumelanin synthesis, resulting in increased skin pigmentation. At MC4R in the hypothalamus, Melanotan II activates pathways involved in sexual arousal. This is the same mechanism utilized by PT-141 (bremelanotide), which is a metabolite of Melanotan II and acts more selectively at MC3R/MC4R. The non-selective receptor binding profile of Melanotan II accounts for its broad range of effects compared to more targeted analogs. Research has characterized Melanotan II’s activity at all five melanocortin receptor subtypes. Its broader receptor engagement — compared to endogenous α-MSH — is responsible for the range of physiological effects observed in research models, including effects on pigmentation, sexual function, and energy homeostasis.

Research Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

A synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone.
Melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R.
Pigmentation, sexual-function pathways, appetite regulation, and energy homeostasis.
No. This information is provided only for educational and research reference.
Product Name
Melanotan II
Formulation
Lyophilized Powder
Strength
10 mg
Purity
>99% (HPLC)
Molecular Formula
n/a
Sequence
n/a
Cas Number
n/a

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For Qualified Laboratory Research Use Only

All products available on this site are supplied strictly for laboratory research use only. They are not intended for human or veterinary use, consumption, treatment, diagnosis or therapeutic application. Customers are responsible for ensuring products are handled, stored and used appropriately within a suitable research setting.