Melanotan-1 (MT-1) — Compound Overview
A researcher-focused overview of Melanotan-1: its chemistry as a linear α-MSH analogue, how it differs from the approved pharmaceutical formulation, and how each batch is documented.
What is Melanotan-1?
Melanotan-1 (MT-1), known by the International Nonproprietary Name afamelanotide, is a linear synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) in which norleucine replaces methionine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine replaces L-phenylalanine at position 7 ([Nle4, D-Phe7]-α-MSH). These substitutions increase the peptide's stability and receptor affinity relative to native α-MSH.
Chemistry and structure
Melanotan-1 carries CAS registry number 75921-69-6, molecular formula C78H111N21O19 and a molecular weight of approximately 1646.8 g/mol. It is a linear tridecapeptide with an acetylated N-terminus and amidated C-terminus.
Regulatory status — read carefully
A pharmaceutical implant formulation of afamelanotide is an approved prescription medicine in some jurisdictions for a rare photosensitivity disorder. The Melanotan-1 supplied by Index Peptides is NOT that medicine: it is bulk research material for in-vitro laboratory research only, with no approval, sterility assurance or clinical formulation. Index Peptides does not supply it for tanning or any other human use, and support cannot discuss such uses.
Melanotan-1 in the research literature
As a stabilised α-MSH analogue, Melanotan-1 is a standard tool compound in melanocortin-receptor research, including receptor-binding assays and melanocyte cell-culture studies. The published pharmacology concerns the regulated pharmaceutical product and preclinical models; it does not validate any use of bulk research material.
Form, handling and storage
Supplied as a lyophilised powder in a sealed vial. Store at -20°C, desiccated and protected from light, per the batch record.
Batch documentation at Index Peptides
Every released batch is HPLC purity tested and LC-MS identity confirmed, with the certificate of analysis published on the product page and verifiable by lot number.
Frequently asked questions
Is Melanotan-1 the same as the approved afamelanotide medicine?
No. The approved product is a controlled pharmaceutical implant available on prescription in some countries. The material here is bulk research powder for in-vitro laboratory use only.
Does Index Peptides supply Melanotan-1 for tanning?
No. Melanotan-1 is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research. It is not for human use of any kind, and support cannot answer questions about human use.
How does Melanotan-1 differ from Melanotan-2?
Melanotan-1 is a linear tridecapeptide; Melanotan-2 is a shorter, cyclic heptapeptide analogue. They have different CAS numbers, masses and receptor-selectivity profiles.
References
Research use only. Not for human or animal consumption.