Tanning
Melanotan-2
10mg · not currently in stock
Cyclic alpha-MSH analogue studied for melanogenesis, libido enhancement, and appetite suppression research.
Mechanism
Melanotan 2 (MT-II) is a cyclic lactam analog of alpha-MSH that non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R. MC1R activation on melanocytes stimulates eumelanin production via the cAMP/PKA pathway, producing skin darkening (tanning) independent of UV exposure. MC3R and MC4R activation in the hypothalamus modulates satiety signaling pathways and other neuroendocrine functions. MC4R activation in the paraventricular nucleus has been particularly associated with vascular smooth muscle signaling, mediated by oxytocin neuron activation and downstream effects on vascular tissue. The cyclic structure provides enhanced receptor binding and metabolic stability.
What the literature has looked at
- Studies have investigated UV-independent melanogenesis for potential photoprotection research
- Research has examined melanocortin receptor binding mechanisms and MC4R signaling pathways
- Studies have explored satiety signaling pathway activation and metabolic effects
- Research has assessed vascular smooth muscle signaling through melanocortin receptor pathways
Research context, not a claim about what this compound does. Research Use Only — not for human or animal consumption. 21+.
Cited work
Dorr RT, et al. Effects of a superpotent melanotropic peptide in combination with solar UV radiation on tanning of the skin in human volunteers. Arch Dermatol. 2004;140(7):827-278.
Research investigated melanotan II-mediated MC1R activation and melanogenesis signaling, observing enhanced melanin production with effects synergistic to UV exposure and persisting after treatment cessation.
Wessells H, et al. Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study. J Urol. 1998;160(2):389-393.
Research examined MC4R-mediated vascular smooth muscle signaling in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, establishing the melanocortin receptor pathway mechanism for vascular tissue effects.
Properties
- type
- Peptide (cyclic heptapeptide)
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