Research peptides
Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic ring-shaped peptide of seven amino acids, held closed by a lactam bridge, that mimics alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. It came out of the University of Arizona and is a shortened, cyclized cousin of Melanotan I.
- Container
- Glass vial, crimp seal, flip-top cap
- Storage
- -20 °C, desiccated, protect from light
- Paperwork
- Lot certificate (HPLC + mass spec) shown before you pay
What researchers study it for
- Skin pigment changes
- Erections in male volunteers
- How it acts at melanocortin receptors
- Case reports of harm from unlicensed use
How it is thought to work
Melanotan II stimulates melanocortin receptors without selectivity. Darkening of the skin is put down to activation of melanocytes. In small placebo-controlled trials, volunteers also reported erections, nausea and yawning, which shows the peptide reaches targets outside the skin. The papers we read do not resolve which receptor subtype drives each of these effects.
Where the research stands
A few small early human studies; never licensed. The human record consists of a pilot phase I study plus small crossover trials published from 1996 to 2000. The peptide has never been licensed. Case reports link it to melanoma and other serious events, and FDA includes it among compounding bulk substances that may carry significant safety risks.
Sources
- Dorr RT, et al. (1996). Evaluation of melanotan-II, a superpotent cyclic melanotropic peptide in a pilot phase-I clinical study. Life Sciences.
- Wessells H, et al. (2000). Melanocortin receptor agonists, penile erection, and sexual motivation: human studies with Melanotan II. International Journal of Impotence Research.
- Hadley ME, Dorr RT. (2006). Melanocortin peptide therapeutics: historical milestones, clinical studies and commercialization. Peptides.
- Hjuler KF, Lorentzen HF. (2014). Melanoma associated with the use of melanotan-II. Dermatology.
For laboratory research use only. Not a drug, food, supplement or cosmetic; not for human or veterinary use. Nothing on this page is medical advice or a usage guide.