Melanotan 2 (MT-2) Acetate is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the sequence Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂. It has a molecular weight of approximately 1,024.18 Da. MT-2 is a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R), with research interest primarily centered on MC1R, MC3R, and MC4R signaling pathways.
In melanocyte cell culture models, MT-2 has demonstrated potent activation of MC1R, resulting in cAMP elevation, CREB phosphorylation, and upregulation of the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). Downstream effects include increased tyrosinase activity and melanin biosynthesis, making MT-2 a widely used research tool for studying melanogenesis pathways. In keratinocyte-melanocyte co-culture systems, MT-2-induced melanin production has been studied in the context of melanosome transfer dynamics and UV-protective pigmentation mechanisms.
MC3R and MC4R research applications extend MT-2’s utility into metabolic and neuroendocrine signaling studies. In hypothalamic neuronal cell models, MC4R activation by MT-2 has been associated with modulation of anorexigenic signaling cascades. In adipocyte models, MC3R-mediated effects on lipid metabolism have been investigated. The non-selective receptor binding profile of MT-2 makes it valuable for comparative melanocortin receptor research, particularly when used alongside selective MC receptor agonists and antagonists.
Additional in vitro research has explored MT-2 in the context of anti-inflammatory signaling, as melanocortin receptor activation in macrophage models has been shown to modulate NF-κB activity and cytokine expression. Sexual function research has investigated MT-2’s effects on MC4R-expressing neuronal cell lines.
Upon release, Erosyn Labs will supply Melanotan 2 as the acetate salt in lyophilized form at ≥98% purity by HPLC. Comprehensive Certificate of Analysis including cyclic peptide purity assessment, mass spectrometry, and amino acid analysis will accompany each lot. Reconstitution in bacteriostatic water is anticipated. Storage at -20°C for lyophilized material and 2–8°C for reconstituted solutions will be recommended.
For research and laboratory use only. Not for human consumption.
