Melanotan II (MT-2)

In plain terms

Melanotan II binds melanocortin receptors, the cell receptors involved in producing pigment. Research has investigated it for effects on melanin production and, separately, on sexual-arousal pathways in animal models.

Research overview

Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Laboratory research has studied its interactions with melanocortin receptors and its role in pigmentation research. Studies have also examined its effects in animal models of various physiological processes related to melanocortin receptor signaling.

What has been studied

1. 1

   Melanocortin receptors

   MT-2 is a lab-made analogue of alpha-MSH that acts on several melanocortin receptors at once, rather than selectively on one.

2. 2

   Pigment research

   Animal studies have looked at its effect on melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin colour.

3. 3

   Appetite and energy signalling

   Because the melanocortin system is also involved in feeding behaviour, some rodent research has measured food intake alongside the pigment endpoints.

Research articles

• Effects of lamotrigine on field potentials and long-term potentiation in guinea pig hippocampal slicesEpilepsia · 2000
• Novel method for the labeling of distant neuromuscular junctionsJournal of neuroscience research · 2000