MT-2 (Melanotan 2) 10mg lyophilised vial - for research purposes only

Purity

≥99%

Format

Lyophilised

Documentation

CoA on request

Storage

−20°C

α-MSH Analogue · Melanocortin

MT-2 — Melanotan 2

Melanotan 2 · MC1R / MC3R / MC4R Agonist

≥99% Purity

CoA Available

MT-2 (Melanotan 2) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analogue of endogenous alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It acts as a broad-spectrum melanocortin receptor agonist with activity at MC1R, MC3R, and MC4R subtypes. Originally developed at the University of Arizona as a potential photoprotective and tanning agent, MT-2 has since become a widely-used research tool for investigating melanogenesis, appetite regulation, energy homeostasis, and autonomic nervous system function.

Size - 10mg

10mg£29.99

£29.99

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What is MT-2 (Melanotan 2)?

MT-2 is a synthetic, cyclic, lactamised analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a naturally-occurring tridecapeptide produced in the pituitary gland. The cyclic modification of the linear α-MSH sequence confers significantly enhanced metabolic stability and receptor binding affinity compared to the native hormone. MT-2 acts as a potent, non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist with demonstrated activity at MC1R, MC3R, and MC4R.

The melanocortin system regulates a diverse array of physiological processes, making MT-2 a valuable research tool across multiple disciplines. MC1R activation in melanocytes stimulates melanogenesis - the production of eumelanin (brown-black pigment) over phaeomelanin (red-yellow), providing a mechanistic model for studying UV-independent skin darkening and photoprotection. MC4R activation in the hypothalamus is associated with appetite suppression, increased energy expenditure, and autonomic nervous system modulation.

Common Name

Melanotan 2

Product Code

MT-2

Receptor Targets

MC1R, MC3R, MC4R

Mechanism

Melanocortin Agonist

Molecular Weight

1,024.2 Da

Structure

Cyclic Heptapeptide

Research Background

MT-2 has been investigated across a broad spectrum of research applications since its synthesis in the early 1990s. Key areas of scientific investigation include:

Melanogenesis & Pigmentation: MT-2 potently stimulates eumelanin synthesis via MC1R activation in melanocytes, providing a well-characterised research model for photoprotective pigmentation pathways and skin cancer risk reduction strategies.
Appetite & Energy Regulation: MC4R agonism in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus suppresses food intake and increases energy expenditure in research models, contributing to its investigation as a potential anti-obesity research tool.
Autonomic Function: MC3R and MC4R activation influences sympathetic nervous system activity, with documented effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and autonomic tone in preclinical models.
Inflammation & Immune Modulation: The melanocortin system demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties, with MC1R and MC3R implicated in downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine cascades.

Research Applications

Melanogenesis and pigmentation pathway research
Photoprotection and UV damage mechanistic studies
Hypothalamic appetite regulation and energy homeostasis
Melanocortin system pharmacology and receptor characterisation
Autonomic nervous system and cardiovascular research

Technical Specifications

Appearance

White Lyophilised Powder

Purity

≥99%

Format

Lyophilised (Freeze-Dried)

Reconstitution

Bacteriostatic Water

Storage (Lyophilised)

−20°C, protected from light

Storage (Reconstituted)

2–8°C, use within 28 days

Shelf Life

24 months (lyophilised)

CoA

Available on Request

Frequently Asked Questions

What melanocortin receptors does MT-2 act on?

MT-2 is a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist with documented activity at MC1R (pigmentation), MC3R (energy homeostasis and inflammation), and MC4R (appetite and autonomic function). It has lower affinity for MC2R (ACTH receptor) and MC5R (exocrine gland function).

How does MT-2 differ from native α-MSH?

MT-2 is a cyclic, lactamised analogue of α-MSH with substantially greater metabolic stability and receptor binding potency. The cyclisation of the peptide backbone prevents enzymatic degradation, resulting in a significantly extended duration of action compared to the native linear tridecapeptide.

Is a Certificate of Analysis provided?

Yes. A CoA documenting batch purity and specifications is available for every batch on request. Please contact us with your order reference number.