Melanocortin
What is Melanotan II?
A synthetic cyclic peptide that acts as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist.
- Class
- Non-selective melanocortin agonist
- Also known as
- MT-II
- Type
- Cyclic heptapeptide
- Research stage
- Research compound; not approved
01 · Classification
What it is
Melanotan II is a cyclic, lactam-bridged analogue of alpha-MSH, developed at the University of Arizona. Cyclisation makes it far more stable and potent than the native hormone in study models.
It activates several melanocortin receptors, which is why it is used in research mapping the roles of each receptor subtype.
02 · Mechanisms
What has been studied
- MC1R: the receptor that controls melanin production in melanocytes.
- MC3R and MC4R: central receptors studied in appetite and energy balance.
- Non-selectivity: because it hits several subtypes, it is often compared with more selective analogues.
03 · Evidence
Where the research is
Not approved for any use. The TGA has issued public warnings about unapproved products sold for human use.
04 · Primary sources
Read the literature
Search the primary research record directly rather than relying on summaries, including this one.
Research use only
Supplied strictly for laboratory and educational research. Not a therapeutic good, not for human or veterinary use, and not evaluated by the TGA. This overview is not medical advice and gives no dosing or administration guidance.
