Melanotan 1

About Melanotan 1

Melanotan 1 is a synthetic peptide analogue used in research studying melanocyte activity and melanin production pathways.

This research peptide is supplied as a lyophilized powder that requires reconstitution before use in laboratory applications. It is provided at research-grade purity for in-vitro studies only.

Research Applications: Melanotan 1 is used exclusively for laboratory research purposes. It is not intended for human consumption, medical treatment, or any form of in-vivo application.

Storage: Store lyophilized powder at -20°C. After reconstitution, store at 2-8°C and use within the timeframe specified by the manufacturer.

Detailed Research Information

Melanotan-1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) studied extensively in dermatology research and melanocortin receptor biology. As a research compound, Melanotan-1 is investigated for its melanogenic properties, photoprotective mechanisms, and melanocortin receptor 1 (MC1R) activation.

Key Research Applications

Melanogenesis Research: Melanotan-1 is utilized in studies examining melanin production pathways, investigating tyrosinase activation, melanocyte stimulation, and pigmentation mechanisms in laboratory models.

Photoprotection Studies: Research applications include investigation of UV radiation protection mechanisms, examining melanin-based photoprotection, DNA damage reduction, and skin cancer prevention in photobiology research.

MC1R Signaling Research: Melanotan-1 is employed in studies exploring melanocortin receptor 1 activation, examining downstream cAMP signaling, MITF transcription factor activation, and melanogenic gene expression.

Dermatological Research: Studies utilize Melanotan-1 to investigate therapeutic interventions for photosensitivity disorders, examining mechanisms of photoprotection and pigmentation enhancement.

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan-1 functions as a high-affinity agonist of the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) expressed on melanocytes. Receptor activation triggers adenylyl cyclase, increasing intracellular cAMP levels and activating protein kinase A (PKA). This cascade phosphorylates and activates CREB transcription factor, leading to increased expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), which upregulates melanogenic enzymes including tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2, culminating in enhanced melanin synthesis and pigmentation.

Product Specifications

All listed research peptides are supplied in lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder form and require reconstitution with bacteriostatic water or sterile water before use in laboratory applications. Products are intended exclusively for in vitro research and are not for human consumption.