Cosmetic Research

Melanotan II Research Guide

Research Overview

Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that has been studied for its interaction with the melanocortin receptor family in laboratory settings. It is not an approved product and is handled strictly as a research compound, not intended for human consumption. Research interest has centered on characterizing its non-selective melanocortin-receptor binding profile in preclinical models.

Structural & Class Overview

Synthetic cyclic heptapeptide; alpha-MSH analog within the melanocortin agonist family. Reported in the literature as a non-selective agonist across melanocortin receptor subtypes MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. Molecular formula C50H69N15O9; CAS 121062-08-6; referenced under PubChem records for melanotan II.

General Research Interest

Research interest includes characterization of MC1R-mediated melanogenesis signaling pathways in cell-based assays; investigation of MC4R signaling in preclinical models of feeding behavior and energy homeostasis; study of MC3R/MC4R contributions to central nervous system melanocortin activity; structure-activity relationship comparisons among cyclic alpha-MSH analogs; and receptor-binding affinity profiling in laboratory settings.

Storage Considerations

General research-handling guidance for a lyophilized peptide: store the sealed lyophilized powder cold (commonly refrigerated or frozen per supplier documentation), protected from light and moisture. Once reconstituted for laboratory work, keep refrigerated and minimize freeze-thaw cycles. For research use only; not for human or veterinary use.

Testing & Quality Considerations

Quality considerations for a research peptide include reversed-phase HPLC assessment of purity, mass spectrometry for identity and molecular-weight confirmation, and review of a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA).

References

  1. Melanotan II — Wikipedia (structural and pharmacological overview)
  2. Melanocortin receptor agonist melanotan-II microinjected in the nucleus accumbens (PubMed)

References are provided for scientific context. Linked sources are independent and not affiliated with iNGEN MD.

Research Use Only — Not For Human Consumption. All products sold by iNGEN MD are intended strictly for in-vitro laboratory and scientific research purposes only. These products are not approved by the FDA and are not intended for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. By purchasing, you confirm you are a qualified researcher aged 18 or older, acting in compliance with all applicable laws. iNGEN MD assumes no liability for misuse.