Description

Melanotan-2 (MT-2)

Overview

Melanotan-2 (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic peptide analogue derived from α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is studied in molecular biology and receptor signaling research as an agonist of melanocortin receptor systems. Laboratory investigations evaluate MT-2 interactions with melanocortin receptors involved in pigmentation signaling pathways and related neuroendocrine receptor-mediated mechanisms.

Due to structural modifications relative to endogenous α-MSH, MT-2 exhibits enhanced receptor binding stability in experimental systems. In research environments, the compound is used to investigate melanocortin receptor activation, peptide–receptor interaction dynamics, and intracellular signaling cascades associated with melanocortin receptor pathways.

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan-2 is investigated for its activity as an agonist at melanocortin receptor subtypes, particularly MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R receptors. These receptors belong to the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family and participate in signaling pathways associated with melanocyte activity and neuroendocrine regulation.

Upon receptor activation, melanocortin signaling pathways may initiate intracellular cascades mediated through cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling systems. These pathways regulate transcriptional mechanisms involved in melanocyte signaling and other melanocortin receptor-associated cellular responses.

Experimental research systems utilize MT-2 as a molecular probe to investigate melanocortin receptor activation and downstream intracellular signaling pathways in controlled laboratory environments.

Research Applications

• Melanocortin receptor activation studies
• G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling research
• Peptide–receptor binding investigations
• Cellular pigmentation pathway models
• Molecular biology research involving α-MSH analogues

Chemical & Molecular Specifications

Compound name: Melanotan-2

Alternative name: MT-2

CAS number: 121062-08-6

Compound type: Synthetic cyclic peptide analogue of α-MSH

Sequence: Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂

Molecular formula: C50H69N15O9

Molecular weight: 1024.18 g/mol

Mono-isotopic mass: 1023.54 Da

Purity: ≥99%

Lyophilized Peptide

This peptide is supplied in lyophilized (freeze-dried) form to support molecular stability during storage and transport. Lyophilization removes water under controlled conditions, helping preserve peptide structure and integrity prior to reconstitution. This format allows for precise handling and preparation in laboratory research environments.

Storage & Handling (Research Use Only)

• Store lyophilized material at -20°C or below unless otherwise specified by laboratory protocol.
• Following reconstitution, short-term storage at 2–8°C is recommended.
• Protect from light and temperature extremes.
• Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.
• Handle using appropriate sterile laboratory techniques and institutional safety procedures.

References (Research Literature)

PubMed – Melanocortin receptor pharmacology

PubMed – α-MSH analogue receptor signaling studies

PubChem – Melanotan-II compound listing

ScienceDirect – melanocortin receptor signaling overview

Research Disclaimer

RESEARCH USE ONLY.
This product is not intended for therapeutic or diagnostic use. EOC Labs products are sold strictly for laboratory research and analytical purposes only. All information provided by EOC Labs, including descriptions, references, and technical data, is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. Statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). No claims are made for any medical or consumer application. By purchasing this product, the buyer certifies that it will be handled by qualified professionals in a properly equipped laboratory and used in compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.