Product Description: Melanotan 2
Introduction
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic peptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), developed for research purposes. It is designed to interact with melanocortin receptors, particularly the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), which plays a critical role in the regulation of skin pigmentation. Melanotan 2 is widely used in scientific studies to explore its effects on melanin production, skin pigmentation, and other potential biological pathways. It is a high-purity peptide, produced for use in laboratory research settings and not for human consumption or clinical use.
What is Melanotan 2?
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic peptide consisting of 13 amino acids, and it is a modified form of the naturally occurring α-MSH. α-MSH is a hormone produced in the anterior pituitary gland, and it plays a key role in the regulation of skin pigmentation by stimulating melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. Melanotan 2 is designed to closely mimic α-MSH, with alterations that enhance its stability and binding affinity to melanocortin receptors, making it more effective for research purposes.
Melanotan 2 is commonly studied for its ability to stimulate the production of melanin in response to UV light exposure and for its potential role in other melanocortin receptor-mediated processes. The peptide is also investigated for its pharmacokinetic properties and its potential effects on various biological systems.
Potential Different Names
- Melanotan 2
- MT-2
- Melanotan II
- α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone analog
- Afamelanotide (closely related peptide)
Chemical Formula
- C50H69N15O9
Structure
Melanotan 2 is a cyclic peptide composed of 13 amino acids, with modifications that increase its stability compared to natural α-MSH. Its structure is designed to interact with melanocortin receptors, especially MC1R, which is found on melanocytes in the skin. The peptide includes a cyclic component at the C-terminal end, improving resistance to enzymatic degradation and prolonging its biological activity. The amino acid sequence of Melanotan 2 is as follows:
- Ac-Nle-cyclo(Asp-His-DPhe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Cys-Phe-Sar)
This modified structure allows Melanotan 2 to maintain its activity for longer periods, making it more suitable for experimental use. Its structural similarity to α-MSH enables it to bind to and activate melanocortin receptors involved in pigmentation and other biological functions.
How Does It Work?
Melanotan 2 functions by mimicking the action of α-MSH, a hormone that binds to melanocortin receptors, particularly the MC1R, found on melanocytes in the skin. Upon activation of these receptors, a cascade of signaling pathways is triggered that leads to the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. By binding to the MC1R, Melanotan 2 can increase the production of melanin, which may lead to a darker skin tone under appropriate conditions, such as exposure to UV radiation.
In addition to its primary effect on pigmentation, research suggests that Melanotan 2 may also have an impact on other melanocortin receptor-mediated processes. These could involve various systems in the body, including those related to appetite regulation, energy homeostasis, and other physiological responses. However, research on these secondary effects is ongoing.
Melanotan 2 is primarily used in laboratory research to explore these mechanisms and to better understand the biological processes influenced by melanocortin signaling. Its use provides researchers with valuable insight into skin pigmentation and related areas of study.
Conclusion
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic peptide developed to mimic the actions of α-MSH, and it is used primarily in scientific research to explore its effects on pigmentation and melanocortin receptor activity. By activating melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R, Melanotan 2 stimulates the production of melanin and allows researchers to study the mechanisms underlying pigmentation and related biological processes. Its stability and bioactivity make it a valuable tool for laboratory investigations, but it is not intended for human consumption or clinical use.
Disclaimer
Melanotan 2 is intended for research purposes only and is not for human or animal consumption. This product has not been evaluated or approved for medical, therapeutic, or diagnostic use. All handling and usage of this product should comply with applicable safety protocols and regulations. Researchers must ensure that they adhere to relevant guidelines when working with Melanotan 2. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not make any health-related claims.