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.
Last updated: 2026-08-21 · By: Index Peptides technical team
Key facts about Melanotan-1
| Compound | Melanotan-1 |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 75921-69-6 |
| Molecular formula | C78H111N21O19 |
| Molecular weight | 1646.8 g/mol |
| Sequence | Ac-SYS-[Nle]-EH-[D-Phe]-RWGKPV-NH₂ |
| Listed formats | 10mg per vial |
| Intended use | In-vitro laboratory research only |
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
Review the published certificate for the exact lot, including the laboratory, report date and analytical results actually reported. HPLC purity alone does not confirm LC-MS identity. Contact us before ordering if a required result is not published.
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.
How do I reconstitute Melanotan-1?
Reconstitution is a laboratory handling procedure, not a use instruction. Our documentation-led reconstitution guide covers the mechanics of dissolving lyophilised peptide powders: https://indexpeptides.uk/guides/peptide-reconstitution-guide. Handling is the responsibility of the qualified researcher.
What is the shelf life of Melanotan-1?
As supplied (lyophilised powder in a sealed vial), Melanotan-1 is stored at -20C, desiccated and protected from light. Long-term stability is documented per batch on the certificate of analysis; treat the batch record as the authoritative shelf-life reference for that lot.
What is the difference between the sizes?
The difference is the nominal peptide content per vial. Melanotan-1 is supplied as 10mg vials. Every format carries the same batch documentation and purity testing.
What does the certificate of analysis show?
Review the published certificate for the exact lot, including the laboratory, report date and analytical results actually reported. HPLC purity alone does not confirm LC-MS identity. Contact us before ordering if a required result is not published.
How does Melanotan-1 compare with Melanotan-2?
See our comparison of Melanotan-1 vs Melanotan-2: https://indexpeptides.uk/guides/melanotan-1-vs-melanotan-2
References
Research use only. Not for human or animal consumption.