Melanotan 2 (MT-2)

Melanotan 2 is a cyclic α-MSH analog and non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. Studied for MC1R-mediated melanogenesis, photoprotection, and MC3R/MC4R signaling in energy and sexual function research.

Melanotan 2 (MT-2, chemical name: Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂) is a synthetic cyclic lactam heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) developed at the University of Arizona by Hruby and Hadley in the late 1980s. The peptide incorporates a norleucine (Nle) substitution for methionine (preventing oxidation), a D-phenylalanine (D-Phe) substitution for enhanced receptor binding, and a lactam bridge between Asp and Lys side chains forming the cyclic structure. This cyclization confers dramatically enhanced metabolic stability and receptor binding affinity compared to linear α-MSH.

MT-2 is a non-selective agonist across melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R, each mediating distinct biological functions. MC1R activation on melanocytes stimulates the cAMP/PKA/MITF/tyrosinase signaling cascade, driving the switch from pheomelanin (red/yellow) to eumelanin (brown/black) production — this is the basis for melanogenesis and photoprotection research. MC3R and MC4R in the hypothalamus are involved in energy homeostasis and appetite regulation, with MC4R additionally implicated in sexual function signaling through descending autonomic pathways. MC5R is expressed on sebaceous glands and exocrine tissues. The non-selective profile of MT-2 makes it a versatile tool for studying the full spectrum of melanocortin biology.

Research applications include melanocyte biology and melanogenesis pathway investigation, UV photoprotection studies, melanocortin receptor pharmacology (agonist comparison studies), energy homeostasis and appetite signaling (MC3R/MC4R), and sexual function neuroscience (MC4R-dependent descending autonomic pathways).

Supplied as a lyophilized powder with ≥99% purity. Protect from light. Store at -20°C desiccated. For melanocortin receptor research only.

Product Specifications

Certificate of Analysis

Every batch ships with a Janoshik-verified COA covering HPLC purity, mass spectrometry confirmation, and batch traceability.

Shipping & Lead Times

• US warehouse: ships within 1–2 business days · estimated 3–5 day delivery
• HK warehouse: ships within 2–3 business days · estimated 7–14 day international delivery
• Carriers: DHL Express, FedEx International, UPS Worldwide
• Discreet outer packaging — no peptide branding visible
• Tracking number emailed on dispatch

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