Description

Melanotan-2 Biovantage Labs Research Peptide

Melanotan-2 is a synthetic cyclic analogue of alpha-MSH studied for its activation of melanocortin receptors MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, with research applications in pigmentation biology, sexual function signalling, and appetite regulation. Biovantage Labs supplies Melanotan-2 at 99+% purity, HPLC/MS verified. Domestically fulfilled from Canada. Not for human consumption. Biovantage Labs provides this compound at 99+% purity, confirmed by batch-specific HPLC and Mass Spectrometry analysis, as a lyophilized compound for use in controlled laboratory settings.

Molecular Profile and Chemical Specifications

Specification	Detail
Molecular Formula	C50H69N15O9
Molecular Weight	1,024.2 Da
Sequence	Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 (cyclic)
Purity	≥99+% (HPLC/MS verified)
Physical Form	Lyophilized white powder
CAS Number	121062-08-6

 

Primary Research Mechanisms

Melanotan-2 and PT-141 (Bremelanotide) share a direct metabolic relationship. PT-141 is formed from Melanotan-2 by hydrolysis of the N-terminal acetyl group. Research comparing the two compounds examines how this modification alters the MC1R/MC3R/MC4R activity balance, with PT-141 demonstrating reduced melanogenic activity while retaining the central MC3R/MC4R profile studied in sexual function research.

MC1R Activation and Melanogenesis Research

Melanotan-2 activates the MC1R receptor on melanocytes, stimulating adenylyl cyclase via Gs-coupling and elevating intracellular cAMP. This drives upregulation of the melanogenic enzyme cascade tyrosinase, TRP-1, TRP-2 and increases eumelanin production, the primary subject of pigmentation biology research.

MC4R Activation and Hypothalamic Appetite Research

MC4R is expressed in hypothalamic nuclei involved in energy homeostasis. Melanotan-2’s MC4R agonism is studied in appetite regulation research alongside its melanogenic properties, examining how central melanocortin signalling modifies feeding behaviour in preclinical models.

Alpha-MSH pathway research examining melanocortin receptor biology may also reference KPV, the C-terminal tripeptide fragment of alpha-MSH that retains anti-inflammatory activity through a distinct mechanism, representing a minimal pharmacophore approach to melanocortin-adjacent research.

Sexual Function and MC3R/MC4R Neurological Research

Melanotan-2 has been examined in models of sexual function for its centrally mediated effects via MC3R and MC4R receptors in limbic and hypothalamic regions. This represents a research application distinct from its peripheral melanogenic activity.

Reconstitution Protocol

• Reconstitute using sterile bacteriostatic water or 0.9% sodium chloride solution
• Introduce diluent slowly along the interior vial wall do not inject directly onto the lyophilized cake
• Swirl gently until fully dissolved do not shake or vortex
• Allow the vial to equilibrate to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation

Storage and Stability

Storage Condition	State	Estimated Stability
-20°C to -80°C	Lyophilized	24+ months
2°C to 8°C	Lyophilized	12 months
Room temperature (20°C)	Lyophilized	3 months
2°C to 8°C	Reconstituted	7 to 14 days

 

Store in a desiccated environment away from UV exposure. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which degrade peptide chain integrity over time.

Melanotan-2 Research FAQ

Q: Why is Melanotan-2 described as a cyclic peptide?

A: The cyclic structure of Melanotan-2 is achieved through a lactam bridge between the Asp and Lys side chains. This cyclisation was engineered to improve metabolic stability relative to linear alpha-MSH analogues and to favour conformations that enhance melanocortin receptor binding affinity.

Q: Is Melanotan-2 for human use?

A: No. Melanotan-2 supplied by Biovantage Labs is strictly for laboratory research purposes. It is not approved for human consumption, veterinary use, or clinical application.

Q: What purity standard does Biovantage Labs apply?

A: Every batch is verified at 99+% purity using HPLC to confirm compound concentration and Mass Spectrometry to confirm molecular identity. Batch-specific COA documentation is available upon request.

Q: Where does Biovantage Labs ship from?

A: All Biovantage Labs products are fulfilled domestically from within Canada, eliminating customs clearance risk and reducing transit time compared to international suppliers.