Melanotan 1 (10MG)

What Is Melanotan 1 and Why Buy It for Research?

Buy Melanotan 1 10mg in Switzerland for research into melanocortin receptor signaling, melanogenesis, and photoprotective mechanisms. Specifically, Melanotan 1 (also known as Afamelanotide, [Nle4,D-Phe7]-α-MSH, or NDP-α-MSH) is a synthetic 13-amino acid peptide analog of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). The peptide has the sequence Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH₂ and is a potent, non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist.

Researchers developed Melanotan 1 through specific amino acid substitutions—replacing methionine with norleucine at position 4 and substituting L-phenylalanine with D-phenylalanine at position 7—which enhance the peptide’s stability, potency, and resistance to enzymatic degradation compared to native α-MSH. The peptide has a molecular weight of 1,646.85 g/mol, a molecular formula of C₇₈H₁₁₁N₂₁O₁₉, and the CAS number 75921-69-6.

In scientific research, Melanotan 1 serves as a molecular tool for studying MC1R-mediated signaling pathways, melanogenesis regulation, and pigmentation mechanisms. Furthermore, Core Peptides supplies Melanotan 1 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 1 10mg in Switzerland.

Melanotan 1 Research Overview: Buy Melanotan 1 10mg in Switzerland for MC1R Studies

Centrally, research into Melanotan 1 has focused on its function as a potent melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) agonist that stimulates melanogenesis and pigmentation. Melanotan 1 has high binding affinity for MC1R, a G-protein-coupled receptor that melanocytes express in the epidermis. Upon binding, MC1R activates adenylate cyclase, elevating cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels, which triggers a signaling cascade that upregulates tyrosinase and other melanogenic enzymes, ultimately leading to increased melanin production.

Unlike native α-MSH, Melanotan 1 is significantly more resistant to enzymatic breakdown, which means the stimulus received by MC1R is more potent and sustained. Furthermore, Melanotan 1 can activate receptors that have mutations at various sites in the seven transmembrane domains—a feature not shared with natural α-MSH. This makes it a valuable tool for studying MC1R function and polymorphisms.

In human research, Melanotan 1 has been shown to induce skin tanning and provide photoprotection. One clinical study demonstrated that tanning was achieved in 3 of 4 subjects receiving MT-1, with these subjects having 47% fewer sunburn cells at irradiated sites. Researchers can safely combine Melanotan 1 with UV-B light or sunlight, and it appears to act synergistically in the tanning response to light. Accordingly, researchers who buy Melanotan 1 10mg in Switzerland from Core Peptides can support their investigations into MC1R signaling, melanogenesis regulation, and photoprotective mechanisms.

How Does Melanotan 1 Work in Research?

Mechanistically, Melanotan 1’s proposed action involves functioning as a melanocortin receptor agonist that activates MC1R-mediated signaling to stimulate melanin production and provide photoprotection. The peptide operates through several interconnected mechanisms.

MC1R Receptor Binding and Activation

Melanotan 1 binds with high affinity to the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes. This binding activates the receptor, triggering intracellular signaling cascades. The peptide is more resistant to breakdown than natural α-MSH, meaning the stimulus received by MC1R is more potent and sustained.

cAMP-Mediated Signaling Cascade

Upon MC1R activation, the receptor couples to G-proteins and stimulates adenylate cyclase, which converts ATP to cyclic AMP (cAMP). The resulting elevation in cAMP levels activates protein kinase A (PKA), which phosphorylates and activates the transcription factor CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein). Consequently, this upregulates the expression of melanogenic enzymes, including tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2.

Melanin Production and Pigmentation

Melanotan 1 stimulates melanogenesis—the production of melanin—by mimicking the actions of α-MSH on MC1R. The peptide promotes the synthesis of eumelanin (brown/black pigment), which provides photoprotection against UV radiation. This melanogenic activity underlies the peptide’s ability to induce skin tanning and reduce UV-induced skin damage.

Photoprotection and DNA Repair

Beyond melanin production, Melanotan 1 provides photoprotective effects through multiple mechanisms. Studies have shown that the peptide reduces sunburn cell formation, indicating protection against UV-induced DNA damage. Additionally, Melanotan 1 acts synergistically with UV-B light or sunlight in the tanning response.

Why Is Melanotan 1 Studied in Switzerland?

Primarily, researchers study Melanotan 1 because it represents a well-characterized α-MSH analog that enables investigation of MC1R signaling, melanogenesis, and photoprotective mechanisms. In fact, this compound offers a focused tool for studying the molecular mechanisms underlying pigmentation, UV protection, and melanocortin receptor pharmacology.

Research has demonstrated Melanotan 1’s relevance across multiple domains. The peptide has been studied for its potential in treating erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder causing severe photosensitivity, where it is approved as an orphan drug. Additionally, investigators have examined Melanotan 1 for its applications in vitiligo, skin cancer chemoprevention, and photodermatoses.

Furthermore, researchers have studied Melanotan 1 for its potential to reduce UV-induced skin damage and act as a chemopreventive agent against sunlight-induced skin cancer. The peptide has also been investigated for its effects on inflammation and, in some studies, male erectile dysfunction. Ultimately, researchers who buy Melanotan 1 10mg in Switzerland gain access to a comprehensive research tool for investigating MC1R signaling, melanogenesis, photoprotection, and pigmentation-related disorders.

Melanotan 1 Research Areas in Laboratory Studies

Research Area	Focus	Evidence Level
MC1R Receptor Pharmacology	Receptor binding, cAMP signaling, MC1R activation, receptor polymorphisms	Mechanistic / In Vitro
Melanogenesis and Pigmentation	Melanin synthesis, tyrosinase regulation, eumelanin production	Mechanistic / In Vitro / In Vivo
Photoprotection	UV protection, sunburn cell reduction, DNA damage prevention	Clinical / Preclinical
Skin Cancer Research	Chemoprevention, melanoma research, photodermatoses	Preclinical / Clinical
Porphyria and Photosensitivity	Erythropoietic protoporphyria, photoprotection, orphan drug research	Clinical
Inflammation Research	Anti-inflammatory effects, melanocortin-mediated immune modulation	Preclinical
Pharmacokinetics	Half-life studies, stability, delivery systems, implant formulations	Pharmacokinetic

Melanotan 1 Compared With Related Research Compounds

Compound	Research Focus	Mechanism / Target	Key Difference
Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide)	MC1R signaling, melanogenesis, photoprotection	Non-selective MCR agonist, high MC1R affinity	13-amino acid linear peptide; FDA-approved orphan drug; higher MC1R selectivity
Melanotan 2	MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R signaling	Non-selective MCR agonist	Cyclic peptide; broader receptor binding; lower MC1R selectivity; more side effects
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 1 differs from Melanotan 2 in its receptor selectivity and side-effect profile. On the one hand, Melanotan 1 exhibits high selectivity for MC1R, making it more specific for pigmentation-related research with minimal 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 but also more side effects. In contrast, native α-MSH has a shorter half-life and is less stable than either synthetic analog.

Research Applications for Melanotan 1 in Switzerland

Scientists have investigated Melanotan 1 across several research domains:

• MC1R Receptor Pharmacology: Researchers use Melanotan 1 to study receptor binding, cAMP signaling, MC1R activation, and receptor polymorphisms in melanocyte models.
• Melanogenesis Research: The peptide is employed to investigate melanin synthesis, tyrosinase regulation, and eumelanin production pathways.
• Photoprotection Studies: Melanotan 1 has been studied for its ability to reduce sunburn cell formation, provide UV protection, and prevent DNA damage.
• Skin Cancer Research: Investigations have explored Melanotan 1’s potential as a chemopreventive agent against sunlight-induced skin cancer and melanoma.
• Porphyria Research: The peptide has been studied for its orphan drug applications in erythropoietic protoporphyria and other photosensitivity disorders.
• Pharmacokinetic Research: Studies have examined Melanotan 1’s half-life, stability, and delivery systems, including controlled-release formulations.

Evidently, researchers who buy Melanotan 1 10mg in Switzerland gain a valuable addition to any laboratory toolkit focused on melanocortin receptor signaling, melanogenesis, photoprotection, and pigmentation research.

Melanotan 1 Product Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Name	Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide)
Alternative Names	Afamelanotide, [Nle4,D-Phe7]-α-MSH, NDP-α-MSH, MT-1, Scenesse
Amount	10mg
Form	Lyophilized powder
Purity	Not verified (≥98% HPLC purity reported by some suppliers)
Amino Acid Sequence	Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH₂
Sequence (1-letter)	Ac-SYS-Nle-EH-D-F-RWGKPV-NH₂
Peptide Length	13 amino acids
Molecular Formula	C₇₈H₁₁₁N₂₁O₁₉
Molecular Weight	1,646.85 g/mol
CAS Number	75921-69-6
Half-Life	~1.07 h (IV); ~1.3 h (SC injection)
Research Category	Melanotan & Pigmentation / Anti-Aging & Longevity
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 1 Quality for Research

When sourcing Melanotan 1 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 (1,646.85 g/mol) and sequence (Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH₂).
• Purity Assessment: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) should verify purity, with ≥98% considered standard for research-grade material.
• 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 1

Core Peptides supplies Melanotan 1 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 1 10mg in Switzerland

What is Melanotan 1?

Specifically, Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide, [Nle4,D-Phe7]-α-MSH) is a synthetic 13-amino acid peptide analog of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the sequence Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH₂.

What is Melanotan 1 researched for?

Primarily, researchers study Melanotan 1 for its role as a potent MC1R agonist in melanogenesis, pigmentation, and photoprotection research. Studies have investigated its effects on melanin synthesis, UV protection, skin cancer chemoprevention, and photosensitivity disorders.

How does Melanotan 1 work?

Mechanistically, Melanotan 1 binds with high affinity to MC1R on melanocytes, activating cAMP-mediated signaling that upregulates melanogenic enzymes and stimulates melanin production. The peptide is more resistant to breakdown than natural α-MSH, providing more potent and sustained MC1R activation.

What is the amino acid sequence of Melanotan 1?

The amino acid sequence is Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH₂.

What is the molecular weight of Melanotan 1?

The molecular weight is 1,646.85 g/mol.

What is the molecular formula of Melanotan 1?

The molecular formula is C₇₈H₁₁₁N₂₁O₁₉.

What is the CAS number of Melanotan 1?

The CAS number is 75921-69-6.

What is the half-life of Melanotan 1?

Melanotan 1 has a half-life of approximately 1.07 hours after intravenous administration and approximately 1.3 hours after subcutaneous injection.

How does Melanotan 1 differ from Melanotan 2?

Melanotan 1 exhibits high selectivity for MC1R, making it more specific for pigmentation research with fewer off-target effects. Melanotan 2 is a non-selective agonist that binds to MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, resulting in broader effects but more side effects.

What research exists on Melanotan 1?

Research on Melanotan 1 includes clinical studies demonstrating skin tanning and photoprotection in human volunteers, investigations into erythropoietic protoporphyria as an orphan drug, and studies on skin cancer chemoprevention and melanocortin receptor pharmacology.

Is Melanotan 1 approved as a medicine?

Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is approved as an orphan drug for erythropoietic protoporphyria in some regions. However, it is not approved as a therapeutic agent for tanning or other indications. It is a research tool for laboratory use only.

Is Melanotan 1 intended for human use?

No. Melanotan 1 is intended for laboratory research use only and is not for human consumption, injection, or therapeutic application outside approved orphan drug contexts.

Where can I buy Melanotan 1 10mg in Switzerland?

You can buy Melanotan 1 10mg in Switzerland from Core Peptides, a trusted research peptide supplier serving the Swiss scientific community.

How should researchers evaluate Melanotan 1 quality?

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

Related Research Compounds

Researchers interested in Melanotan 1 may also find the following related compounds relevant to their work:

• Melanotan 2 — A cyclic peptide analog of α-MSH with broader melanocortin receptor binding, researched for pigmentation, erectile function, and metabolic effects.
• 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 1 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 1 10mg in Switzerland often pair it with related compounds in this category to explore complementary pathways in pigmentation and photoprotection research.

Explore Anti-Aging & Longevity

Researchers studying photoprotection, skin health, and UV-related damage may also find relevant compounds in the Anti-Aging & Longevity category. Melanotan 1’s photoprotective and melanogenic properties make it a valuable tool for investigating UV protection and skin health research.

Further Research

For researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of Melanotan 1 and its research applications, the following areas may warrant further investigation:

• The relationship between Melanotan 1-mediated MC1R activation and specific downstream effects on melanogenesis and pigmentation pathways
• Comparative studies between Melanotan 1 and Melanotan 2 in various pigmentation and melanocortin receptor models
• The potential role of Melanotan 1 in modulating photoprotection, inflammation, and skin cancer chemoprevention
• Mechanistic studies on Melanotan 1’s interaction with MC1R and its functional consequences for cAMP signaling and melanin synthesis
• Exploration of Melanotan 1’s effects on different cell types and tissue systems beyond melanocytes

Research Disclaimer

Melanotan 1 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 outside approved orphan drug contexts. 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 (except as an orphan drug for EPP). 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.