Available Products
A Cyclic Analogue of Alpha-MSH
Melanotan 2, also written MT-2 or Melanotan II, is a synthetic peptide derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), the 13-amino-acid hormone that regulates pigment production in skin cells. MT-2 is shorter and cyclic: its ends are linked to form a ring, which makes it considerably more resistant to breakdown than the natural hormone. It was developed at the University of Arizona during research into melanocortin signaling.
Receptor profile
Unlike some later analogues, MT-2 is considered non-selective. It acts at several melanocortin receptors, including MC1R in pigment cells and MC3R and MC4R in the brain. That broad profile is part of why it appears as a comparison compound in studies of more selective analogues, including PT-141, which was developed from it.
Research Topics
The literature has looked at MT-2 in melanocyte cell cultures, where researchers measure melanin synthesis and the enzymes that drive it, and in rodent models of central melanocortin signaling, including studies of feeding behavior and energy balance. Because the compound touches multiple receptors, published results are often interpreted receptor by receptor.
Supplied as a Single Vial
Refresh Research offers Melanotan 2 as a 10 mg lyophilized vial. The amount on the label is the total peptide in that vial. Keep it sealed, cool and out of direct light before it is reconstituted.
- Format: freeze-dried powder in sealed glass
- Labeled content: 10 mg per vial
- Related compound: PT-141 (bremelanotide)
COA and Lot Matching
You will find a certificate for each MT-2 lot under the COA / Lab Reports page. The lot printed on the vial should be the one named on the certificate, and the certificate should identify the material as Melanotan 2 at the expected quantity.
Research use in a laboratory only.
References
The publications below provide research context. They are not tests of Refresh Research products.