Melanotan II (MT-2)
Melanocortin agonist studied for tanning, libido, and appetite regulation.
What Is Melanotan II (MT-2)?
Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It acts on melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R) and is studied for its effects on skin pigmentation, sexual function, and appetite regulation. Studies show it stimulates melanin production for UV-protective tanning without sun exposure.
🔬 Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that acts as a non-selective agonist at all five melanocortin receptor subtypes (MC1R through MC5R). Its primary studied effects include potent melanogenesis via MC1R activation on melanocytes (stimulating eumelanin production), CNS-mediated effects on arousal via MC3R and MC4R, and appetite suppression through hypothalamic melanocortin pathways. Its broad receptor activation profile distinguishes it pharmacologically from more selective analogs such as PT-141.
Effectiveness Profile
Relative effectiveness scores derived from published preclinical literature across key endpoints.
Scores are qualitative aggregates from animal and in vitro studies and are not a medical claim. For educational purposes only.
Applications & Benefits
Key Study Findings
Demonstrates potent melanogenesis induction via MC1R in melanocyte culture and animal UV-exposure models
Shown to suppress food intake and reduce body weight in rodent studies via hypothalamic MC4R-mediated pathways
Preclinical studies in rodents demonstrate CNS-mediated arousal effects, establishing the mechanism basis for PT-141's development
MC4R activation contributes to erectile function in rodent studies through central neuronal circuits distinct from peripheral vascular mechanisms
Studied as a model compound for investigating melanocortin system pharmacology across receptor subtypes
Effect Timeline
Expected milestones based on published preclinical data.
Central melanocortin receptor engagement within hours. Acute libido and mood effects in preclinical models.
Melanin synthesis stimulation begins (for tanning peptides). Libido enhancement effects become measurable.
Maximum libido and pigmentation effects established in preclinical models. HPG axis stimulation measurable.
Effects sustained with reduced maintenance dosing. Hormonal balance improvements stabilize.
Central melanocortin receptor engagement within hours. Acute libido and mood effects in preclinical models.
Melanin synthesis stimulation begins (for tanning peptides). Libido enhancement effects become measurable.
Maximum libido and pigmentation effects established in preclinical models. HPG axis stimulation measurable.
Effects sustained with reduced maintenance dosing. Hormonal balance improvements stabilize.
Timelines are derived from preclinical animal studies. Individual results in laboratory settings may vary. For educational purposes only.
Dosing Protocol
Dosing information is derived from published animal studies and is provided for educational purposes only.
Reconstitution Calculator
Calculate exact BAC water volume and dose measurements for Melanotan II (MT-2).
For laboratory use only. This calculator is a reference tool — verify all calculations before use. Always use sterile technique with bacteriostatic water and sterile syringes.
Synergistic Stack Combinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What melanocortin receptors does MT-2 activate and what are their functions?
MT-2 is a non-selective agonist at all five melanocortin receptors. MC1R mediates pigmentation in melanocytes. MC2R is the primary ACTH receptor in the adrenal gland. MC3R and MC4R are expressed in the brain and regulate energy homeostasis, arousal, and feeding behavior. MC5R is found in exocrine glands and immune cells. MT-2's broad activity across this receptor family produces the composite pharmacological profile observed in studies.
How does MT-2 stimulate melanogenesis?
Activation of MC1R on cutaneous melanocytes by MT-2 stimulates adenylyl cyclase and elevates cAMP, which activates protein kinase A and downstream transcription factors including MITF (microphthalmia-associated transcription factor). MITF drives expression of enzymes in the melanin synthesis pathway including tyrosinase, resulting in increased eumelanin production. This process occurs independent of UV radiation, though UV light potentiates the response by damaging DNA and activating pro-melanogenic signaling.
How does MT-2 differ from alpha-MSH structurally?
Alpha-MSH is a linear 13-amino acid peptide with rapid enzymatic degradation in vivo. MT-2 is a cyclic 7-amino acid analog that incorporates a His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp pharmacophore responsible for melanocortin receptor binding, with cyclization that confers resistance to protease digestion and extends bioavailability. This structural optimization results in greater potency and duration of action compared to native α-MSH in pharmacological studies.
Related Topics
MT-2
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