Melanotan 1 10mg — Vial Spec, Reconstitution Math & COA
A 10mg vial of Melanotan 1 provides high-purity, lyophilized peptide designed for preclinical investigation of melanocortin receptor signaling and cutaneous pigmentation pathways. This technical reference details physical specifications, precise reconstitution mathematics across standard diluent volumes, analytical verification standards, and optimal aliquot storage parameters for academic and institutional laboratories.
Quick answer
A 10mg vial of Melanotan 1 provides high-purity, lyophilized peptide designed for preclinical investigation of melanocortin receptor signaling and cutaneous pigmentation pathways. This technical reference details physical specifications, precise reconstitution mathematics across standard diluent volumes, analytical verification standards, and optimal aliquot storage parameters for academic and institutional laboratories.
Key takeaways
- The [Melanotan 1 10mg](/product/mti-melanotan1-10mg) vial is a standardized laboratory configuration containing a high-purity lyophilized cake of synthetic alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) analog, also known in scientific literature as Afamelanotide or [Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Met-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2].
- [Melanotan](/research-peptides/melanotan-2) 1 functions as a potent, non-selective agonist across the melanocortin receptor sub-family, displaying high binding affinity primarily for the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R).
- Accurate concentration calculations are vital to ensuring reproducible dosing and precise assay yields.
- Lyophilized [Melanotan](/research-peptides/melanotan-2) 1 maintains optimal chemical stability when stored in dark, desiccated environments at temperatures between -20°C and -80°C.
Overview of Melanotan 1 (10mg Lyophilized Vial)
The Melanotan 1 10mg vial is a standardized laboratory configuration containing a high-purity lyophilized cake of synthetic alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) analog, also known in scientific literature as Afamelanotide or [Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Met-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2]. Designed specifically for high-throughput in vitro screening, receptor-binding assays, or extended animal model studies, the 10mg mass allows researchers to prepare stock solutions at elevated concentrations without requiring frequent vial transitions.
Principal investigators and laboratory technicians select the 10mg vial format when conducting longitudinal research protocols that require consistent batch-to-batch parameters. Containing zero fillers or unlisted stabilizing agents, each vial undergoes rigorous lyophilization under nitrogen flushing to guarantee structural integrity during transit and long-term cold storage. PX1 Research supplies this research compound exclusively for laboratory research use only, strictly prohibiting human or clinical applications.
Molecular Structure and Melanocortin Target Selectivity
Melanotan 1 functions as a potent, non-selective agonist across the melanocortin receptor sub-family, displaying high binding affinity primarily for the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R). Structurally modified from endogenous α-MSH through the substitution of natural amino acid residues—specifically replacing L-phenylalanine with D-phenylalanine at position 7 and L-methionine at position 4—the peptide exhibits significantly enhanced enzymatic stability against baseline endopeptidases.
In preclinical models, activation of MC1R on melanocytes initiates a intracellular signaling cascade mediated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). This upregulation activates tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme responsible for synthesising eumelanin over pheomelanin. Preclinical studies suggest that this biochemical pathway mediates adaptive skin pigmentation responses to ultraviolet exposure and plays a regulatory role in cellular oxidative stress defenses. Researchers evaluating broad-spectrum melanocortin activity often utilize our comprehensive catalog of all peptides to compare cross-receptor activation profiles.
Reconstitution Mathematics for 10mg Lyophilized Mass
Accurate concentration calculations are vital to ensuring reproducible dosing and precise assay yields. When preparing stock solutions from a 10mg lyophilized cake, the final concentration depends directly on the volume of sterile diluent—typically Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) or Sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride—introduced into the vacuum-sealed vial.
To achieve a target concentration, apply the standard formula: Concentration (mg/mL) = Total Mass (10mg) / Reconstitution Volume (mL). Below are the standard reference values utilized in laboratory protocols: • 1.0 mL Diluent Addition: Yields a stock concentration of 10.0 mg/mL (10.0 µg/µL). • 2.0 mL Diluent Addition: Yields a stock concentration of 5.0 mg/mL (5.0 µg/µL). • 3.0 mL Diluent Addition: Yields a stock concentration of 3.33 mg/mL (3.33 µg/µL). For custom micro-molar calculations or alternative volumetric mixing, researchers should utilize our interactive reconstitution calculator to minimize math errors prior to liquid handling.
Aliquot Planning and Storage Standard Operating Procedures
Lyophilized Melanotan 1 maintains optimal chemical stability when stored in dark, desiccated environments at temperatures between -20°C and -80°C. Upon receipt, lyophilized vials should be logged into laboratory inventory and transferred immediately to cold storage to prevent ambient moisture absorption or temperature-induced peptide degradation.
Following liquid reconstitution, repeated freeze-thaw cycles must be strictly avoided, as mechanical shear stress during phase transitions can cause peptide aggregation and peptide bond cleavage. Laboratory protocols require dividing the reconstituted stock solution into single-use micro-aliquots using sterile, low-binding polypropylene microcentrifuge tubes. Reconstituted aliquots stored at 2°C to 8°C should be utilized within 14 to 30 days, while aliquots frozen at -80°C remain stable for extended research timelines.
Lot-Matched Certificate of Analysis (COA) Verification
PX1 Research enforces stringent quality control measures on every production batch. Each fill size—including the 10mg vial—is tested by an independent ISO 17025 accredited analytical facility. Every order includes direct access to a lot-matched COA documenting physical state, identity, chemical purity, and endotoxin levels.
Purity is quantitatively verified via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), requiring a minimum threshold of ≥98.0% chromatographic purity. Molecular identity is validated through Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS), verifying that the observed mass matches the theoretical molecular weight of 1646.85 Da. Furthermore, potential biological contaminants are quantified using a chromogenic Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) assay to confirm endotoxin levels remain below strictly defined limits (<0.05 EU/mg).
Comparative Analysis: Melanotan 1 vs. Related Melanocortins
When designing melanocortin receptor protocols, investigators must select the appropriate peptide analog based on subtype affinity profiles and research endpoints. Melanotan 1 exhibits high selectivity for MC1R, making it the benchmark compound for studying melanogenesis, photoprotection, and pigmentation pathways without triggering pronounced central nervous system activity.
In contrast, cyclic analogs such as Melanotan 2 exhibit broader receptor engagement across MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, making them common tools for evaluating metabolic rate, sexual behavior, and appetite regulation. Similarly, PT-141 (Bremelanotide)—a metabolite derivative of Melanotan 2—possesses central nervous system activity dominated by MC3R and MC4R binding, utilized primarily in neuro-endocrine studies. Endogenous agonists like alpha-MSH provide baseline binding data, though they suffer from rapid enzymatic degradation compared to synthetic analogs.
Selecting the Correct Fill Mass: 10mg vs. Alternative Sizes
Choosing between a 10mg vial and alternative mass configurations depends largely on experimental throughput, storage logistics, and target assay concentrations. The 10mg vial is optimized for high-volume laboratories conducting parallel cell-culture trials, animal cohort administration over multi-week periods, or structural analytical screens requiring significant material.
For small-scale pilot studies, assay development, or single-concentration binding screens, smaller mass options may prevent reagent waste associated with prolonged liquid storage. If PX1 Research ever experiences a temporary stock transition for the exact 10mg format, researchers can consult our core research library or review current inventory listings to select equivalent mass options without compromising research continuity.
Quality Control Practices at PX1 Research Facilities
PX1 Research operates strictly within GMP-compliant manufacturing environments located within the United States. Every stage of peptide synthesis—from solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and cleavage to preparative HPLC purification and final lyophilization—is conducted under standardized protocols.
Our dual shipping and fulfillment facilities in California and Arizona ensure rapid turnaround times, offering same-day dispatch for orders finalized before standard cut-off times Monday through Friday. Secure handling, temperature-managed transit packaging, and institutional account support are standard for all domestic and international research clients. Institutional purchasing departments requiring tax-exempt status or bulk supply tiers can coordinate directly via our wholesale portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary target receptor for Melanotan 1 in research studies?
Melanotan 1 is a synthetic peptide agonist that primarily targets the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), which regulates melanogenesis and cutaneous pigmentation pathways in preclinical models.
How do I calculate the concentration of a 10mg Melanotan 1 vial after reconstitution?
Divide 10mg by the total volume (in mL) of diluent added. Adding 1mL of sterile solvent yields 10mg/mL (10µg/µL); adding 2mL yields 5mg/mL (5µg/µL); and adding 3mL yields 3.33mg/mL (3.33µg/µL).
Where can I view the lot-specific Certificate of Analysis for my Melanotan 1 order?
You can view and download the independent ISO 17025 laboratory COA by visiting the PX1 Research COA portal and entering your lot number.
What are the recommended storage temperatures for lyophilized vs. reconstituted Melanotan 1?
Lyophilized vials should be stored at -20°C to -80°C for long-term stability. Once reconstituted, stock solutions should be divided into single-use aliquots and kept at 2°C to 8°C for short-term use (up to 30 days) or frozen at -80°C.
What endotoxin limits are verified for PX1 Research compounds?
All PX1 Research compounds undergo chromogenic LAL testing to verify that bacterial endotoxin levels remain strictly under <0.05 EU/mg.
How does Melanotan 1 differ structurally from Melanotan 2?
Melanotan 1 is a linear peptide derived directly from natural α-MSH with two specific amino acid substitutions, whereas Melanotan 2 is a truncated, cyclic lactam peptide with broader non-selective receptor binding.
Are PX1 Research compounds suitable for veterinary or clinical use?
No. All compounds provided by PX1 Research are intended exclusively for in vitro and laboratory research use only. They are not for human or veterinary administration.
What diluent should be used to reconstitute Melanotan 1 for laboratory assays?
Standard laboratory diluents include Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) for multi-use stock solutions or Sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride for immediate, single-assay protocols.
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