Melanotan

About the Product

Genetic Labs Melanotan is a high-purity synthetic peptide (research grade) supplied in a vial containing 10mg of lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder. Melanotan is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a naturally occurring peptide hormone that plays a key role in melanogenesis—the process of melanin production in the skin. By binding to and activating melanocortin receptors (specifically MC1R), Melanotan stimulates the production of melanin, making it a valuable research tool for studying skin pigmentation, UV protection, and melanocortin receptor biology.

Kit Contents:

• 1 Vial with 10mg Melanotan (Lyophilized Powder)

• 1 Vial with Bacteriostatic Water (Diluent)

For Laboratory Research Use Only. Not for human consumption.

Benefits (Research Scope)

• α-MSH Analog: Melanotan is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a naturally occurring peptide that regulates melanin production. It binds to and activates the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating melanogenesis and skin pigmentation.

• Versatile Research Tool: Suitable for a wide range of studies, including:

  • Dermatological Research: Studies on skin pigmentation, melanogenesis, and UV protection mechanisms.

  • Melanocortin Receptor Biology: Research into the structure, function, and signaling pathways of melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R).

  • Photoprotection: Investigation into the protective effects of melanin against UV radiation-induced DNA damage and skin cancer.

  • Appetite & Energy Balance: Research into the role of melanocortin receptors in appetite regulation, satiety, and energy homeostasis (via MC3R and MC4R).

  • Inflammatory Research: Studies on the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of melanocortin peptides.

  • Sexual Function Research: Investigation into the role of melanocortin receptors in sexual function and libido (via MC4R).

• Practical Formulation: The lyophilized powder ensures stability and extended shelf life, while the included bacteriostatic water facilitates easy reconstitution for both in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Research & Science

Melanotan is one of the most well-studied synthetic melanocortin peptides, with a robust body of research supporting its mechanism and applications in dermatology, endocrinology, and neuroscience.

• Mechanism of Action: Melanotan is a synthetic analog of α-MSH, a 13-amino-acid peptide produced in the pituitary gland. It acts as a potent agonist at melanocortin receptors, particularly:

  • MC1R (Melanocortin-1 Receptor): Found primarily on melanocytes in the skin and hair follicles. Activation of MC1R stimulates the production of melanin (eumelanin and pheomelanin) through the cAMP-dependent signaling pathway, leading to increased skin pigmentation and photoprotection.

  • MC3R & MC4R (Melanocortin-3 & -4 Receptors): Found in the central nervous system, these receptors play a role in appetite regulation, energy balance, and sexual function.

• Melanogenesis Research: Studies have demonstrated that Melanotan potently stimulates melanin production in melanocytes, resulting in:

  • Increased skin pigmentation (tanning effect).

  • Enhanced photoprotection against UV-induced DNA damage and skin cancer.

  • Potential therapeutic applications for conditions involving hypopigmentation, such as vitiligo.

• Appetite & Energy Balance Research: Beyond its effects on pigmentation, Melanotan acts on MC3R and MC4R in the hypothalamus, where it plays a role in appetite suppression and energy homeostasis. This makes it a valuable tool for researching obesity and metabolic disorders.

• Anti-Inflammatory Research: Melanocortin peptides, including Melanotan, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, making them relevant for research into inflammatory skin conditions and autoimmune diseases.

• Focus on Genetic Variability: Research is exploring how genetic variations in the MC1R gene (which are common and contribute to variations in skin and hair color) influence individual responses to Melanotan. Additionally, polymorphisms in other melanocortin receptor genes (MC3R, MC4R) are being investigated for their role in obesity and metabolic disorders.