Melanotan-2 (MT-2) — Compound Overview

What is Melanotan-2?

Melanotan-2 (MT-2) is a cyclic heptapeptide analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Cyclisation through a lactam bridge between aspartate and lysine side chains constrains the peptide's conformation and increases its potency at melanocortin receptors relative to linear analogues. PT-141 (bremelanotide) is its free-acid derivative.

Chemistry and structure

Melanotan-2 carries CAS registry number 121062-08-6, molecular formula C50H69N15O9 and a molecular weight of approximately 1024.2 g/mol (cyclo Ac-Nle-[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂).

Regulatory status — read carefully

Melanotan-2 is not an approved medicine in any jurisdiction. UK and EU regulators have issued public warnings about consumer 'tanning' products containing it. Index Peptides supplies Melanotan-2 strictly for in-vitro laboratory research — never for tanning or any human use — and support cannot discuss such uses.

Melanotan-2 in the research literature

Melanotan-2 is a long-standing tool compound in melanocortin-receptor pharmacology, used in receptor-binding, selectivity and signalling studies across the MC1–MC5 receptor subtypes. The literature is preclinical and pharmacological in nature.

Form, handling and storage

Supplied as a lyophilised powder (acetate salt) 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

References

• PubChem — Melanotan-2 (CAS 121062-08-6)
• MHRA warning on Melanotan products