MT-2 (Melanotan 2 Acetate)

Melanotan II (MT-II, MT-2) is a synthetic, cyclic heptapeptide analog of endogenous α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), engineered for enhanced potency, metabolic stability, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) penetration. Developed in the 1990s at the University of Arizona, it acts as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R) and is widely used as a research tool; it is not approved by any regulatory agency for human use.

10mg*10vials

$59

Product Information

What is Melanotan II?

Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic peptide analog of the natural α‑melanocyte‑stimulating hormone (α‑MSH). It was originally developed to stimulate skin tanning and photoprotection, but also exerts strong central effects on sexual function, appetite, and energy metabolism.

It is a potent non‑selective agonist at melanocortin receptors, especially MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. Unlike Melanotan I, MT-II easily crosses the blood–brain barrier and produces widespread central and peripheral effects.

CAS Number: 169332‑61‑0
Molecular Weight: ~1024 Da
Structure: Cyclic heptapeptide with a lactam bridge
Half‑life: Approximately 30 minutes

Target Population & Research Applications

MT-II is used exclusively in preclinical and research settings. Investigated areas include:

Sunless tanning and photoprotection

Stimulates melanin production to darken skin without UV exposure, potentially reducing sun damage risk.
Sexual function research

Studied for erectile response and enhanced sexual desire; closely related to bremelanotide (PT‑141), an approved drug for sexual dysfunction.
Appetite and weight regulation

Acts on hypothalamic MC4R to reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure in animal models.
Anti‑inflammatory and tissue protective effects

Modulates immune activity through MC3R and MC5R pathways.

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan II acts by activating melanocortin receptors (G protein‑coupled receptors) throughout the body and brain.

Skin pigmentation

Binds MC1R on melanocytes in the skin
Increases cAMP and activates PKA signaling
Upregulates MITF, the master transcription factor for melanin production
Boosts tyrosinase and related enzymes
Increases synthesis and transfer of melanin granules → skin darkening and photoprotection

Central nervous system effects (MC3R / MC4R)

Crosses the blood–brain barrier to act in the hypothalamus and limbic system
MC4R activation reduces appetite and increases energy expenditure
Modulates dopamine and nitric oxide pathways to enhance sexual arousal and erectile response

Anti‑inflammatory action

Inhibits NF‑κB and pro‑inflammatory cytokines such as TNF‑α and IL‑6
Reduces immune cell overactivation in inflammatory models