Melanotan 2 (10MG)

What Is Melanotan 2 and Why Buy It for Research?

Buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland for research into melanocortin receptor signaling, pigmentation, appetite regulation, and erectile function. Specifically, Melanotan 2 (also known as MT-II or Melanotan II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the sequence Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂. The cyclic lactam bridge between aspartic acid and lysine residues constrains the peptide into a stable, biologically active conformation that confers enhanced potency and prolonged half-life compared to the native linear peptide.

Researchers developed Melanotan 2 as a more potent and stable alternative to Melanotan 1. Furthermore, the peptide has a molecular weight of 1,024.2 g/mol, a molecular formula of C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉, and the CAS number 121062-08-6. In scientific research, Melanotan 2 serves as a molecular tool for studying melanocortin receptor pharmacology, melanogenesis pathways, and central nervous system effects of melanocortin signaling. Moreover, Core Peptides supplies Melanotan 2 as a lyophilized powder in a 10mg format exclusively for laboratory use. Therefore, researchers seeking to source this compound for their work will find it readily available when they buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland.

Melanotan 2 Research Overview: Buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland for Melanocortin Studies

Centrally, research into Melanotan 2 has focused on its function as a potent non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. This peptide binds with high affinity to multiple melanocortin receptors, primarily MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, making it a valuable tool for studying the diverse physiological roles of the melanocortin system. Unlike Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide), which exhibits high selectivity for MC1R, Melanotan 2 is a non-selective agonist that engages multiple receptor subtypes.

The cyclic structure of Melanotan 2 confers enhanced in vivo stability, with a half-life of 1–2 hours, and increased brain permeability due to its constrained conformation. Consequently, this stability and receptor profile make Melanotan 2 a versatile research tool for investigating melanocortin signaling across multiple biological systems.

Research has demonstrated Melanotan 2’s relevance across multiple domains. For instance, the peptide is a powerful tool for inducing melanogenesis in cell culture experiments, providing a valuable model for studying pigmentation and related disorders. Furthermore, researchers have investigated Melanotan 2 for its effects on appetite suppression via MC4R activation and for its ability to induce penile erections and sexual arousal through central melanocortin pathways. Accordingly, researchers who buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland from Core Peptides can support their investigations into melanocortin receptor signaling, melanogenesis, appetite regulation, and erectile function.

How Does Melanotan 2 Work in Research?

Mechanistically, Melanotan 2’s proposed action involves functioning as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist that activates Gs-coupled signaling cascades. The peptide operates through several interconnected mechanisms.

Melanocortin Receptor Binding

Melanotan 2 binds to multiple melanocortin receptors, primarily MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, with varying affinities for each subtype. The peptide’s cyclic structure enhances its binding affinity and receptor activation compared to linear α-MSH analogs. As a GPCR agonist, Melanotan 2 primarily exerts its effects through the activation of intracellular signaling cascades.

MC1R-Mediated Melanogenesis

The primary mechanism of action for Melanotan 2 involves the activation of Gs-coupled melanocortin receptors. Activation of MC1R in melanocytes by Melanotan 2 initiates the cAMP/PKA pathway, leading to the phosphorylation of the transcription factor CREB. Consequently, this upregulates the expression of melanogenic enzymes, including tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2, ultimately leading to increased melanin production.

MC4R-Mediated Appetite Regulation

Melanotan 2 binds to MC4R, a receptor involved in appetite regulation and energy homeostasis. Activation of MC4R by Melanotan 2 suppresses food intake through central nervous system pathways, making it a valuable tool for studying appetite regulation and metabolic disorders.

Central Melanocortin and Erectile Function

Melanotan 2 has been reported to cause penile erections in men with erectile dysfunction. Studies investigating the mechanisms by which systemic administration of MT-II increases intracavernosal pressure suggest that activation of central melanocortin pathways plays a critical role. This makes Melanotan 2 a valuable research tool for studying erectile function and sexual arousal.

PTEN Upregulation and Melanoma Suppression

Studies suggest that the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) plays a critical role in MTII-induced PTEN upregulation and melanoma suppression. MTII elicits PTEN upregulation via MC1R, thereby suppressing melanoma progression through downregulating COX-2/PGE2 signaling.

Why Is Melanotan 2 Studied in Switzerland?

Primarily, researchers study Melanotan 2 because it represents a well-characterized non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist that enables investigation of MC1R-mediated melanogenesis, MC4R-mediated appetite regulation, and central melanocortin effects on erectile function. In fact, this compound offers a versatile tool for studying the molecular mechanisms underlying pigmentation, energy homeostasis, and sexual function.

Research has demonstrated Melanotan 2’s relevance across multiple domains. For example, researchers originally developed the peptide for its melanogenic (tanning) properties but have since investigated it for its effects on sexual arousal and appetite suppression. Additionally, its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier due to its cyclic structure makes it particularly valuable for studying central nervous system effects of melanocortin signaling.

Furthermore, researchers have studied Melanotan 2 as a potential skin cancer chemopreventive peptide, with preformulation studies evaluating its stability and delivery for the prevention of sunlight-induced skin cancers. Ultimately, researchers who buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland gain access to a comprehensive research tool for investigating melanocortin receptor signaling, melanogenesis, appetite regulation, and erectile function.

Melanotan 2 Research Areas in Laboratory Studies

Research Area	Focus	Key Receptors
Melanogenesis and Pigmentation	Melanin synthesis, tyrosinase regulation, skin tanning	MC1R
Appetite Regulation	Food intake suppression, energy homeostasis, metabolic disorders	MC4R
Erectile Function	Intracavernosal pressure, sexual arousal, central melanocortin pathways	MC3R, MC4R
Melanocortin Receptor Pharmacology	Receptor binding, cAMP signaling, GPCR activation	MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R
Skin Cancer Research	Chemoprevention, PTEN upregulation, COX-2 inhibition	MC1R
Blood-Brain Barrier Penetration	Central nervous system effects, neuroendocrine signaling	MC3R, MC4R
Metabolic Research	Energy homeostasis, obesity research, metabolic regulation	MC4R

Melanotan 2 Compared With Related Research Compounds

Compound	Research Focus	Mechanism / Target	Key Difference
Melanotan 2 (MT-II)	Melanogenesis, appetite, erectile function	Non-selective MCR agonist (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R)	Cyclic 7-amino acid peptide; crosses BBB; broader receptor binding
Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide)	MC1R signaling, melanogenesis, photoprotection	Non-selective MCR agonist, high MC1R affinity	13-amino acid linear peptide; higher MC1R selectivity; does not cross BBB
α-MSH	Native melanocortin signaling	MCR agonist (non-selective)	Native 13-amino acid peptide; shorter half-life; less stable
NDP-MSH	Melanocortin receptor research	MCR agonist	Superpotent analog; similar to Melanotan 1; research use

Comparatively, Melanotan 2 differs from Melanotan 1 in its receptor selectivity and research applications. On the one hand, Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) exhibits high selectivity for MC1R, making it more specific for pigmentation-related research with fewer off-target effects. On the other hand, Melanotan 2 is a non-selective agonist that binds effectively to MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, resulting in a broader range of effects including appetite suppression and erectile function enhancement. Furthermore, Melanotan 2’s cyclic structure confers enhanced stability and brain permeability, making it suitable for central nervous system research.

Research Applications for Melanotan 2 in Switzerland

Scientists have investigated Melanotan 2 across several research domains:

• Melanogenesis Research: Researchers use Melanotan 2 to study melanin synthesis, tyrosinase regulation, and pigmentation pathways in melanocyte cultures.
• Appetite Regulation Studies: The peptide is employed to investigate food intake suppression, energy homeostasis, and MC4R-mediated signaling pathways in metabolic research.
• Erectile Function Research: Melanotan 2 has been studied for its ability to induce penile erections and enhance sexual arousal through central melanocortin pathways.
• Melanocortin Receptor Pharmacology: The peptide serves as a tool for studying receptor binding, cAMP signaling, and GPCR activation across multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes.
• Skin Cancer Research: Investigations have explored Melanotan 2’s potential as a chemopreventive agent against sunlight-induced skin cancers.
• Blood-Brain Barrier Studies: Melanotan 2’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes it valuable for studying central nervous system effects of melanocortin signaling.

Evidently, researchers who buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland gain a valuable addition to any laboratory toolkit focused on melanocortin receptor signaling, melanogenesis, appetite regulation, and erectile function research.

Melanotan 2 Product Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Name	Melanotan 2 (MT-II)
Alternative Names	MT-II, Melanotan II, Melanotan-II
Amount	10mg
Form	Lyophilized powder
Purity	Not verified (≥98% HPLC purity reported by some suppliers)
Amino Acid Sequence	Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂
Peptide Length	7 amino acids (cyclic heptapeptide)
Molecular Formula	C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉
Molecular Weight	1,024.2 g/mol
CAS Number	121062-08-6
PubChem CID	16138848
Half-Life	1-2 hours (in vivo); ~30-60 min (SC injection)
Research Category	Melanotan & Pigmentation / Cellular Research & Signaling
Research Use	Laboratory research use only
CoA	Available upon request (not verified)
Storage	Lyophilized powder should be stored desiccated at -20°C or below, protected from light
Solubility	Soluble in water and acidic solutions; stable at acidic-neutral pH

How to Evaluate Melanotan 2 Quality for Research

When sourcing Melanotan 2 peptide for laboratory research, researchers should consider several quality indicators:

• Identity Confirmation: Analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry should confirm the compound’s molecular weight (1,024.2 g/mol) and sequence (Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂).
• Purity Assessment: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) should verify purity, with ≥98% considered standard for research-grade material.
• Cyclic Structure Confirmation: Analytical methods should confirm the presence of the cyclic lactam bridge between aspartic acid and lysine residues.
• Batch Traceability: Lot numbers and batch information enable researchers to track specific production runs.
• Certificate of Analysis: A CoA should accompany the product, detailing analytical testing results including HPLC purity and identity confirmation.
• Labeling Accuracy: Proper labeling should clearly indicate the product name, amount (10mg), sequence, molecular formula, CAS number, and storage recommendations.
• Storage Conditions: Appropriate storage at -20°C or below in desiccated, dark conditions helps maintain peptide stability.

Understanding the Certificate of Analysis

Typically, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) accompanies research peptides and provides information about the specific batch’s analytical testing. For example, a CoA may include product identity confirmation, purity percentage as determined by HPLC, batch or lot number for traceability, analytical methods used (e.g., mass spectrometry, HPLC), and a physical description of the product.

Nevertheless, it is important to note that a CoA does not establish safety, efficacy, therapeutic effectiveness, or suitability for human use. Instead, it serves as a quality control document that helps researchers verify the identity and purity of the peptide they are using in their laboratory investigations.

Storage and Stability of Melanotan 2

Core Peptides supplies Melanotan 2 as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder. To maintain stability and integrity:

• Store the lyophilized powder desiccated at -20°C or below for long-term storage
• Store at 2-8°C for short-term storage if frequent access is required
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
• Weigh under dry conditions; the peptide is hygroscopic
• Reconstitute only immediately before use with appropriate sterile solvents (sterile water or acidic solutions)
• Inject solvent slowly against the inner wall of the vial; avoid vigorous agitation during dissolution
• Filter sterilize if required (e.g., 0.22 µm) immediately prior to use
• Once reconstituted, store at 2-8°C and utilize within days
• Protect from light and moisture; the peptide is most stable at acidic to neutral pH (avoid pH > 8)

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Melanotan 2 in Switzerland

What is Melanotan 2?

Specifically, Melanotan 2 (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the sequence Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂. It is a potent non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist.

What is Melanotan 2 researched for?

Primarily, researchers study Melanotan 2 for its role as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist in melanogenesis, appetite regulation, and erectile function research. Studies have investigated its effects on pigmentation, food intake suppression, and sexual arousal.

How does Melanotan 2 work?

Mechanistically, Melanotan 2 binds to multiple melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R) as a non-selective agonist, activating Gs-coupled signaling cascades. It stimulates melanogenesis via MC1R, suppresses appetite via MC4R, and induces erectile function via central melanocortin pathways.

What is the amino acid sequence of Melanotan 2?

The amino acid sequence is Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂.

What is the molecular weight of Melanotan 2?

The molecular weight is 1,024.2 g/mol.

What is the molecular formula of Melanotan 2?

The molecular formula is C₅₀H₆₉N₁₅O₉.

What is the CAS number of Melanotan 2?

The CAS number is 121062-08-6.

What is the half-life of Melanotan 2?

Melanotan 2 has a half-life of approximately 1-2 hours in vivo, with a subcutaneous half-life of approximately 30-60 minutes.

How does Melanotan 2 differ from Melanotan 1?

Melanotan 2 is a cyclic 7-amino acid peptide that is a non-selective agonist binding to MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. Afamelanotide is a linear 13-amino acid peptide with high selectivity for MC1R.

Melanotan 2 crosses the blood-brain barrier and has broader effects including appetite suppression and erectile function enhancement.

What research exists on Melanotan 2?

Research on Melanotan 2 includes studies on melanogenesis induction in cell culture, appetite suppression via MC4R activation, erectile function enhancement through central melanocortin pathways, and potential chemopreventive effects against skin cancer.

Is Melanotan 2 approved as a medicine?

No. Regulatory authorities have not approved Melanotan 2 as a medicine, pharmaceutical, or therapeutic agent. It is a research tool for laboratory use only.

Is Melanotan 2 intended for human use?

No. Melanotan 2 is intended for laboratory research use only and is not for human consumption, injection, or therapeutic application.

Where can I buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland?

You can buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland from Core Peptides, a trusted research peptide supplier serving the Swiss scientific community.

How should researchers evaluate Melanotan 2 quality?

Researchers should look for identity confirmation via mass spectrometry, purity data from HPLC, cyclic structure confirmation, batch traceability, and a Certificate of Analysis.

Related Research Compounds

Researchers interested in Melanotan 2 may also find the following related compounds relevant to their work:

• Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) — A linear 13-amino acid α-MSH analog with high MC1R selectivity, researched for melanogenesis and photoprotection.
• α-MSH — The native 13-amino acid peptide hormone that regulates pigmentation, inflammation, and energy homeostasis.
• GHK-Cu — A copper-binding peptide researched for skin regeneration, wound healing, and anti-aging applications.
• BPC-157 — A peptide researched for tissue healing, gastrointestinal protection, and angiogenesis.

Explore Melanotan & Pigmentation

Melanotan 2 belongs to the Melanotan & Pigmentation category of research compounds. Melanotan & Pigmentation products are studied for their potential roles in melanocortin receptor signaling, melanogenesis, and pigmentation research. Generally, researchers who buy Melanotan 2 in Switzerland often pair it with related compounds in this category to explore complementary pathways in pigmentation and melanocortin research.

Explore Cellular Research & Signaling

Researchers studying GPCR signaling, melanocortin receptor pharmacology, and cellular signaling pathways may also find relevant compounds in the Cellular Research & Signaling category. Melanotan 2’s interactions with multiple melanocortin receptors make it a valuable tool for investigating GPCR-mediated signaling and receptor pharmacology.

Further Research

For researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of Melanotan 2 and its research applications, the following areas may warrant further investigation:

• The relationship between Melanotan 2-mediated melanocortin receptor activation and specific downstream effects on melanogenesis, appetite, and erectile function
• Comparative studies between Melanotan 2 and Melanotan 1 in various pigmentation and melanocortin receptor models
• The potential role of Melanotan 2 in modulating MC4R-mediated appetite suppression and energy homeostasis
• Mechanistic studies on Melanotan 2’s interaction with central melanocortin pathways and its functional consequences for erectile function
• Exploration of Melanotan 2’s effects on different cell types and tissue systems beyond melanocytes

Research Disclaimer

Melanotan 2 is a research peptide supplied for laboratory research use only. Researchers must not use it for human consumption, injection, or any form of therapeutic application. Moreover, this product is not a medicine, pharmaceutical, or medical device. Furthermore, Swissmedic, the FDA, EMA, or any other regulatory authority have not approved it for human use. Researchers should consult Swissmedic for applicable regulations and guidance on research peptide handling in Switzerland.

Generally, the information provided on this page is for educational and scientific reference purposes only. Therefore, it does not constitute medical advice, treatment recommendations, or dosing instructions. Ultimately, researchers bear the responsibility for ensuring that their use of this product complies with all applicable laws, regulations, and institutional guidelines.

Finally, all research involving peptides should be conducted by qualified personnel in appropriate laboratory settings with proper safety protocols.