Melanotan 2 (10mg) Peptide – Research Overview

Melanotan 2 (10mg) is a synthetic research peptide analog of the naturally occurring α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is widely studied in laboratory environments for its interaction with melanocortin receptors and its potential influence on pigmentation pathways, neuro-signaling mechanisms, and receptor-mediated cellular activity.

At Core Peptide, we provide Melanotan 2 (10mg) strictly for research and laboratory use only, supporting scientists and institutions across the United States with high-purity peptide compounds manufactured to rigorous quality standards.

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What Is Melanotan 2 (10mg)?

Melanotan 2 peptide, also known as MT-II, is a cyclic heptapeptide engineered to exhibit enhanced stability and receptor affinity compared to endogenous melanocortins. The structural modifications allow Melanotan 2 (10mg) to interact with multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes, making it a valuable compound in experimental research settings.

Chemical Profile

• Other Name: MT-II

• Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉

• Molecular Weight: 1024.19 g/mol

• Form: Lyophilized powder

• Quantity: 10mg vial

Mechanism of Action: Melanocortin Receptor Activity

Melanotan 2 (10mg) is considered a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist, demonstrating affinity for four of the five known melanocortin receptor subtypes:

MC1R – Pigmentation Research

The melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) is primarily expressed in melanocytes. When Melanotan 2 interacts with MC1R in controlled research models, it may stimulate pathways associated with eumelanin synthesis, contributing to darker pigmentation without ultraviolet exposure. This has made Melanotan 2 (10mg) a frequent subject in sunless tanning research models.

MC3R – Appetite Regulation Models

MC3R is expressed in various tissues, including regions of the brain. Early experimental findings suggest that MC3R may play a role in energy balance and appetite modulation, making Melanotan 2 relevant for receptor-binding studies in metabolic research.

MC4R – Neuro-Signaling and Arousal Pathways

MC4R is located in the hypothalamus and other central nervous system regions. Research suggests Melanotan 2 (10mg) may influence neuronal signaling linked to arousal and motivational behaviors by interacting with MC4 receptors and downstream dopaminergic and oxytocinergic pathways.

MC5R – Peripheral Tissue Studies

MC5R appears throughout various peripheral tissues. While its precise function remains under investigation, researchers continue to explore how Melanotan 2 may affect exocrine and neuromodulatory processes via MC5 receptor activation.

Melanotan 2 (10mg) in Research Studies

Nerve Cell Regeneration Models

Preclinical murine studies have investigated Melanotan 2 (10mg) for its neurotrophic and neuroprotective properties. In experimental nerve injury models, subjects exposed to Melanotan 2 showed partial restoration of sensory function and reduced neurotoxicity when challenged with chemotherapeutic agents. These findings suggest MC4 receptor activation may support neurite outgrowth and neuronal resilience.

📖 External Reference:
PubMed – Melanotan II Synthesis Study

Neuro-Signaling and Arousal Research

Clinical research indicates Melanotan 2 may influence central arousal signaling, with over 80% of research subjects demonstrating increased neuronal activity compared to placebo groups. The compound is believed to act within hypothalamic centers integrating dopaminergic and oxytocinergic systems.

📖 External Reference:
Melanocortin Receptors and Sexual Function – NCBI

Neurodevelopmental Modulation Studies

Additional research suggests Melanotan 2 (10mg) may influence oxytocin-sensitive neural circuits, potentially modulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and GABA. These interactions have led scientists to explore Melanotan 2 in experimental models examining social cognition and synaptic plasticity.

Sunless Tanning Research Models

One of the most studied applications of Melanotan 2 (10mg) is its role in melanin production without UV radiation. By engaging MC1R on melanocytes, Melanotan 2 may promote eumelanin synthesis, leading to visible pigmentation changes in laboratory models. Its cyclic structure allows for prolonged receptor interaction compared to linear α-MSH analogs.

This makes Melanotan 2 a compound of interest for controlled pigmentation research without ultraviolet exposure risks.

Why Choose Core Peptide?

At Core Peptide, we specialize in premium research compounds for U.S. laboratories:

 Third-party purity testing
 Secure U.S.-based shipping
 Clear labeling and documentation
 Strict research-only compliance

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References

1. Ryakhovsky VV et al., Beilstein Journal of Organic Chemistry

2. Hadley ME, Peptides Journal

3. King SH et al., Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry

4. Peters B et al., CEN Case Reports