Research Overview
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). The compound has been widely investigated in laboratory research involving melanocortin receptor systems, receptor-binding studies, and peptide pharmacology. Its cyclic structure was developed to improve stability and receptor interaction characteristics in experimental models.
Origin Research supplies Melanotan II as a lyophilized research peptide provided for laboratory and in-vitro investigation only. Each batch is accompanied by analytical documentation including purity verification and identity confirmation. The material is not intended for human, veterinary, or cosmetic use. Published literature frequently references Melanotan II in melanocortin-pathway and receptor-activity research. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Mechanism Studied in Research
Melanotan II has been extensively studied as a melanocortin receptor agonist in laboratory models. Published investigations have examined interactions with melanocortin receptor subtypes and downstream signaling pathways associated with receptor activation. Researchers commonly utilize the compound in receptor pharmacology studies, binding assays, and comparative peptide investigations.
Experimental literature has also evaluated structure-activity relationships and receptor selectivity characteristics of cyclic melanocortin analogs. These studies have made Melanotan II one of the most frequently referenced compounds within melanocortin-system research. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Research Applications
Melanotan II has been investigated across multiple laboratory research domains including receptor biology, peptide pharmacology, and melanocortin-system studies. Researchers frequently employ the compound in experimental models designed to evaluate receptor-mediated signaling and comparative activity among melanocortin analogs.
Additional applications include structure-activity relationship investigations, analytical method development, and peptide characterization studies. Current literature continues to reference Melanotan II as a standard research compound within melanocortin-related experimental programs. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Reconstitution Reference
Melanotan II is supplied as a sterile lyophilized powder under vacuum seal. Reconstitution is commonly performed using bacteriostatic water according to laboratory protocol.
Researchers frequently add 1–2 mL of bacteriostatic water depending on desired working concentration. The diluent should be introduced slowly while avoiding direct impact on the lyophilized material. Following complete dissolution, researchers typically document dilution volume, concentration, and preparation date according to laboratory procedures.
Storage and Handling
Lyophilized Melanotan II should be stored at −20°C and protected from light and moisture until use. Short-term refrigerated storage at 2–8°C may be acceptable under validated laboratory conditions.
Following reconstitution, solutions should generally be maintained under refrigerated conditions and handled according to institutional laboratory protocols. Researchers should document storage conditions, preparation dates, and handling procedures according to laboratory traceability requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
References
[2] Sawyer TK et al. Melanocortin receptor agonist studies and peptide analog development. PMID: 10495322
[3] Hadley ME et al. Melanocortin receptor pharmacology research. PMID: 9655466
[4] Hruby VJ et al. Structure-activity relationships of melanocortin peptides. PMID: 10844044
[5] Wikberg JES et al. Melanocortin receptor interactions and signaling studies. PMID: 10956219