Melanotan 1 is a synthetic tridecapeptide analog of endogenous alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) synthesized for laboratory evaluation. Investigated across preclinical models, this research compound serves as a key tool for probing melanocortin receptor sub-type signaling and enzymatic skin pigmentation responses.
Melanotan 1 is a synthetic tridecapeptide analog of endogenous alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) synthesized for laboratory evaluation. Investigated across preclinical models, this research compound serves as a key tool for probing melanocortin receptor sub-type signaling and enzymatic skin pigmentation responses.
Melanotan 1 (also designated as MT-1 or Afamelanotide) is a synthetic peptide analog of endogenous alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). In preclinical laboratory models, Melanotan 1 functions as a potent melanocortin receptor agonist, primary evaluated for its structural activity in stimulating melanogenesis and regulating skin pigmentation responses within cellular and animal experimental frameworks.
Structurally identified as [N-acetyl-Norleucine4, D-Phenylalanine7]-α-MSH, Melanotan 1 features targeted amino acid substitutions relative to native α-MSH. The incorporation of Norleucine at position 4 and D-Phenylalanine at position 7 significantly enhances resistance to enzymatic degradation by serum proteases while increasing receptor binding affinity. For detailed analytical documentation and molecular specifications, investigators can consult our comprehensive peptide intelligence report on Melanotan 1.
Laboratory researchers utilize reference-grade compounds to maintain experimental repeatability. PX1 Research supplies high-purity Melanotan 1 10mg lyophilized powder strictly synthesized for in vitro testing and preclinical laboratory applications.
The primary mechanism of Melanotan 1 involves high-affinity agonism across the melanocortin receptor (MCR) family, a class of 7-transmembrane G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). Preclinical binding assays indicate that Melanotan 1 exhibits high affinity for the Melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), which is primarily expressed on epidermal melanocytes.
Upon binding to MC1R, Melanotan 1 stimulates the heterotrimeric Gs protein subunit, activating adenylyl cyclase and driving an intracellular accumulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Elevated cAMP levels subsequently upregulate protein kinase A (PKA), leading to the phosphorylation and activation of the cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). CREB activation promotes the transcription of Microphthalmia-associated Transcription Factor (MITF).
In vitro data demonstrate that downstream MITF expression increases the enzymatic synthesis of tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TYRP1), and dopachrome tautomerase (DCT). This enzymatic cascade converts L-tyrosine into eumelanin, the photoprotective biopolymer responsible for dark skin pigmentation responses observed in animal models.
Preclinical literature detailing Melanotan 1 spans several decades of melanocortin biology research. In murine models and human skin explant cultures, administration of Melanotan 1 induces dose-dependent increases in eumelanin synthesis without necessitating prior ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure.
In vitro assays comparing native α-MSH to Melanotan 1 reveal that the synthetic analog possesses a prolonged biological half-life and significantly greater potency in stimulating adenylate cyclase. In rodent assays, sustained activation of MC1R by Melanotan 1 results in accelerated pigment deposition within follicular and epidermal structures, providing a reliable model for studying baseline melanocyte activity.
Additionally, secondary research models investigate the potential broader receptor cross-talk of Melanotan 1 across MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R subtypes. While its dominant activity resides at MC1R, secondary interactions in central nervous system tissue models provide valuable data on feeding behavior, energy homeostasis, and vascular tone modulation. Researchers exploring broader peptide categories can review our full catalog of research peptides for complementary receptor ligands.
Within melanocortin peptide research, investigators frequently compare Melanotan 1 against structural analogs to evaluate subtype selectivity and physical response profiles. Melanotan 1 is a linear tridecapeptide with pronounced selectivity for MC1R over central melanocortin receptors.
In contrast, Melanotan II research peptide is a shortened, cyclic lactam analog of α-MSH (Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2). Because of its cyclic conformation, Melanotan II readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and displays significantly higher affinity for MC3R and MC4R, resulting in physiological endpoints such as central appetite suppression and spontaneous penile erections in animal models.
Similarly, PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a metabolite derivative of Melanotan II that selectively targets central MC3R and MC4R pathways to induce sexual arousal responses in preclinical models, completely lacking the peripheral skin pigmentation effects mediated by Melanotan 1 at MC1R. Choosing the correct analog depends on whether the laboratory model targets peripheral melanogenesis or central neural pathways.
Because structural fidelity is paramount for reproducible receptor binding assays, research compounds must undergo rigorous analytical verification. Every batch of Melanotan 1 manufactured for PX1 Research undergoes strict analytical evaluation prior to lot release.
Purity is quantified using Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC). RP-HPLC separates the target sequence from incomplete synthesis fragments or deamidation byproducts, ensuring a chromatographic purity profile exceeding 98.0%. Ultraviolet (UV) detection at 214 nm and 280 nm confirms the absence of peak co-elution.
Molecular identity is verified through Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS). The resultant mass spectrum must accurately mirror the theoretical monoisotopic mass of Melanotan 1 (1646.85 Da). To review independent verification protocols, researchers can consult the PX1 research library for detailed methodological frameworks.
Bacterial endotoxins (lipopolysaccharides) introduce severe confounding variables into cell culture assays and animal models by triggering innate immune responses via Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4). Therefore, stringent endotoxin control is essential for valid laboratory experimentation.
PX1 Research enforces strict endotoxin screening protocols utilizing Kinetic Chromogenic Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) testing. All lots of our PX1 Melanotan 1 reference material are certified to contain less than 0.01 EU/mg, preventing cell culture toxicity or non-specific inflammatory signaling in preclinical models.
Quality control testing is conducted exclusively in ISO 17025 accredited analytical laboratories operating under cGMP-compliant standards. Every shipment includes a lot-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting HPLC purity graphs, MS spectra, and LAL endotoxin levels.
To preserve peptide integrity, proper laboratory reconstitution procedures must be followed. Lyophilized Melanotan 1 should be equilibrated to ambient room temperature inside a laminar flow hood prior to reconstitution to minimize moisture condensation.
Reconstitution should be performed using sterile Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) or sterile Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS, pH 7.4), depending on experimental requirements. The diluent should be introduced down the glass vial wall slowly to avoid vigorous agitation, followed by gentle swirling until complete dissolution is achieved.
Vortexing or violent shaking must be avoided, as mechanical shear stress can disrupt delicate peptide secondary structures and induce aggregation. Aliquoting reconstituted solutions into single-use polypropylene microtubes prevents repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which cause peptide degradation.
Lyophilized Melanotan 1 exhibits high chemical stability when stored under appropriate environmental conditions. Unreconstituted vials should be stored in a desiccated environment at -20°C for short-to-medium term storage, or -80°C for extended archival storage up to 24 months.
Once reconstituted into aqueous solution, Melanotan 1 is more susceptible to hydrolytic cleavage and peptide oxidation. Reconstituted aliquots must be stored at 2°C to 8°C and utilized within 30 days when formulated with bacteriostatic preservatives.
For long-term storage of reconstituted solutions, aliquots should be frozen immediately at -80°C. Storage in frost-free freezers is strictly disadvised, as cyclic temperature fluctuations induce micro-thawing and rapid peptide degradation.
PX1 Research exclusively supplies research compounds synthesized within certified USA-based manufacturing facilities. Adhering to domestic manufacturing standards eliminates common quality risks associated with unverified overseas suppliers, such as residual heavy metals, TFA salt contamination, or sequence misfolding.
Every production run utilizes solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) under automated conditions, ensuring consistent sequence fidelity and batch-to-batch homogeneity. Full lot traceability is maintained from raw amino acid precursor sourcing through final lyophilization and vial sealing.
Institutional buyers and laboratory managers requiring high-volume supplies or custom synthesis options can apply through our wholesale laboratory account program to access direct institutional support and batch reservation.
Maintaining cold-chain integrity during transport is vital for preserving delicate lyophilized peptides. PX1 Research operates dual fulfillment hubs strategically located in California and Arizona to optimize shipping transit times across North America.
All orders placed Monday through Friday prior to 3:00 PM PST are processed and dispatched on the same day. Lyophilized vials are packaged in insulated, temperature-buffered containers to insulate compounds against external thermal spikes during transit.
Upon arrival, laboratory personnel should immediately inspect the package tamper seals and transfer all lyophilized reference materials to dedicated -20°C cold storage.
What is melanotan 1 used for in research?
Melanotan 1 is used in preclinical laboratory research to investigate melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) binding kinetics, enzymatic melanogenesis pathways, skin pigmentation responses, and photoprotective cellular mechanisms in cellular assays and animal models.
How does melanotan 1 differ from melanotan 2?
Melanotan 1 is a linear tridecapeptide selective for peripheral MC1R receptors involved in skin pigmentation. Melanotan 2 is a cyclic heptapeptide that easily crosses the blood-brain barrier, exhibiting higher affinity for central MC3R and MC4R receptors and eliciting systemic metabolic and sexual arousal responses.
What is the molecular weight and sequence of melanotan 1?
Melanotan 1 has a molecular formula of C78H111N21O19 and a chemical molecular weight of 1646.85 Da. Its amino acid sequence is Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2.
How is melanotan 1 reconstituted for laboratory use?
Melanotan 1 is reconstituted by gently adding sterile bacteriostatic water or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) down the inside wall of the vial. The vial should be gently swirled until completely dissolved without vortexing or violent shaking.
How should reconstituted melanotan 1 be stored?
Reconstituted Melanotan 1 solutions should be stored in single-use aliquots at 2°C to 8°C for up to 30 days (if formulated with bacteriostatic water) or frozen at -80°C for extended stability. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles must be avoided.
What purity level does PX1 Research guarantee for melanotan 1?
PX1 Research guarantees a minimum purity of 98.0% for Melanotan 1, verified via Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) by an independent ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
Does PX1 Research provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for melanotan 1?
Yes. Every lot of Melanotan 1 includes a lot-specific Certificate of Analysis detailing HPLC purity chromatograms, mass spectrometry verification, and LAL endotoxin assay results.
What are the endotoxin limits for PX1 Research peptides?
PX1 Research peptides undergo Kinetic Chromogenic LAL testing to verify endotoxin levels are strictly below 0.01 EU/mg, ensuring suitability for sensitive cell culture and in vivo animal models.
Is melanotan 1 manufactured in the USA?
Yes. All research peptides offered by PX1 Research are synthesized in USA-based, cGMP-compliant manufacturing facilities adhering to strict quality management standards.
What are the shipping options for melanotan 1 orders?
PX1 Research dispatches orders same-day Monday through Friday from our CA and AZ shipping centers when placed before 3:00 PM PST. All orders are packed in climate-buffered packaging to maintain integrity.
All products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only. Not for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment or consumption. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.