Melanotan II For Sale — Research Grade
PX1 Research provides laboratory-grade Melanotan II synthesized for demanding in vitro and preclinical research applications. Every lot undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry testing to ensure minimum 98% purity, accompanied by comprehensive certificates of analysis for strict quality control.
Quick answer
PX1 Research provides laboratory-grade Melanotan II synthesized for demanding in vitro and preclinical research applications. Every lot undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry testing to ensure minimum 98% purity, accompanied by comprehensive certificates of analysis for strict quality control.
Key takeaways
- [Melanotan](/research-peptides/melanotan-2) II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).
- Structurally characterized as Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2, [Melanotan](/research-peptides/melanotan-2) II features a lactam bridge connecting the aspartic acid and lysine residues.
- In vitro data indicate that [Melanotan](/research-peptides/melanotan-2) II induces expression of tyrosinase—the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin biosynthesis—within cultured melanocytes.
- Within melanocortin research, selecting the precise ligand profile is essential for isolating target mechanisms.
Overview of Research-Grade Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Originally synthesized at the University of Arizona during investigations into central skin pigmentation pathways, this research compound exhibits high binding affinity across multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes. Researchers utilizing high-purity Melanotan II in laboratory settings investigate its capability to stimulate melanogenesis, modulate receptor signaling cascades, and interact with central peptide networks.
When sourcing research peptides for experimental models, analytical verification is critical. Material supplied by PX1 Research is strictly designated for laboratory research use only. Our commitment to synthesis precision ensures that investigators receive consistent, non-degraded lyophilisates optimized for quantitative cell culture assays and preclinical research protocols.
Molecular Structure and Melanocortin Receptor Affinity
Structurally characterized as Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2, Melanotan II features a lactam bridge connecting the aspartic acid and lysine residues. This cyclic conformation confers resistance against enzymatic degradation by aminopeptidases, significantly extending its biological half-life compared to endogenous linear α-MSH peptides in experimental models.
Preclinical binding assays indicate that Melanotan II functions as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors, displaying potency at MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. In cellular models, activation of MC1R on melanocytes triggers adenylate cyclase, raising intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. Investigators utilize these properties within melanocortin receptor agonists studies to map intracellular signaling cascades and downstream gene expression profiles.
Preclinical Investigations into Skin Pigmentation Dynamics
In vitro data indicate that Melanotan II induces expression of tyrosinase—the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin biosynthesis—within cultured melanocytes. By activating tyrosinase and related proteins (TRP-1 and TRP-2), the peptide accelerates the conversion of L-tyrosine to dopaquinone, shifting the metabolic equilibrium toward eumelanin production over pheomelanin.
Rodent models and organotypic skin culture systems demonstrate that systemic or localized administration of synthetic melanocortin analogs increases epidermal melanin density without requiring primary exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Research models evaluating skin pigmentation responses leverage these characteristics to isolate receptor-driven photoprotective pathways from direct radiation damage.
Comparative Analysis: Melanotan II vs. Melanotan I and PT-141
Within melanocortin research, selecting the precise ligand profile is essential for isolating target mechanisms. Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a linear peptide analog that demonstrates higher selectivity for the MC1R subtype, making it a focused candidate for isolated cutaneous pigmentation assays where central receptor cross-reactivity must be minimized.
In contrast, Melanotan II exhibits broader receptor activation across central and peripheral tissue targets. Modifications to the Melanotan II structure yielded PT-141 (Bremelanotide), a metabolite derivative lacking the core C-terminal modification, designed specifically to isolate central nervous system signaling via MC3R and MC4R pathways without predominant peripheral melanocyte stimulation. Investigators evaluating these compounds cross-reference structural variations against target tissue receptor density.
Analytical Standards: HPLC, Mass Spectrometry & Endotoxin Limits
To ensure reliable baseline data in preclinical assays, research peptides must maintain strict analytical standards. PX1 Research subjects every lot of Melanotan II to reverse-phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS). These methods confirm peptide purity equal to or exceeding 98% while verifying correct molecular mass (1024.2 g/mol).
Additionally, routinely monitoring bacterial endotoxins is essential for preventing non-specific inflammatory responses in cellular preparations. Our quality assurance protocol incorporates Chromogenic Recombinant Factor C assays adhering to strict endotoxin testing standards, guaranteeing endotoxin levels remain below 0.1 EU/mg.
Reconstitution and Laboratory Storage Protocols
Lyophilized Melanotan II should be maintained at -20°C for long-term stability upon receipt. When preparing stock solutions for laboratory assays, researchers should follow established reconstitution protocols. Sterile bacteriostatic water or laboratory-grade phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4) should be introduced gently along the glass vial wall to prevent shear force degradation.
Once reconstituted, stock aliquots should be stored at 2°C to 8°C for short-term evaluation or flash-frozen at -80°C to maintain stability over extended experimental timelines. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles must be avoided to maintain structural integrity and prevent peptide aggregation.
Sourcing Research-Grade Peptides from PX1 Research
When acquiring research compounds, laboratory personnel require full supply-chain transparency and verified purity. PX1 Research synthesizes peptides in ISO 17025 accredited, GMP-compliant domestic facilities across the USA. Every purchase includes access to a lot-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing raw chromatographic data and purity spectra.
Orders placed before standard cutoff times ship the same day from our distribution centers located in California and Arizona. This dual-hub logistics network minimizes transit time, protecting thermal stability during domestic delivery.
Bulk Procurement and Institutional Accounts
For high-throughput screening, custom assay design, or long-term preclinical trial series, primary investigators can establish a wholesale lab account. Institutional procurement channels provide dedicated batch allocation, bulk lyophilisate packaging, and custom synthesis options tailored to analytical parameters.
Explore our broader catalog through the PX1 research library to examine related melanocortin ligands, regulatory peptides, and biochemical tools engineered for precise experimental discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the intended application for research-grade Melanotan II?
Melanotan II is synthesized exclusively for laboratory research use, including in vitro cell culture assays, melanocortin receptor binding affinity studies, and preclinical rodent models examining pigmentation mechanisms.
How does PX1 Research verify Melanotan II purity?
Each lot undergoes independent testing via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) to confirm identity and ensure purity levels of at least 98%.
What endotoxin controls are applied to Melanotan II lots?
Lots are screened using quantitative endotoxin assays to ensure limits remain below 0.1 EU/mg, protecting cellular assays from pyrogen-induced baseline artifacts.
What solvent should be used to reconstitute Melanotan II for lab use?
Sterile bacteriostatic water or sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) is recommended depending on the requirements of the specific cell culture or assay protocol.
How should lyophilized Melanotan II be stored upon delivery?
Desiccated lyophilized vials should be stored at -20°C for long-term stability. Avoid exposing the dry powder to light or ambient room moisture before reconstitution.
How does Melanotan II differ structurally from native α-MSH?
Native α-MSH is a linear tridecapeptide, whereas Melanotan II is a cyclic heptapeptide analog containing a lactam ring, providing resistance to enzymatic cleavage.
What are the shipping fulfillment timelines for PX1 Research orders?
Orders placed Monday through Friday before the daily cutoff time ship the same day from fulfillment centers in California and Arizona.
Can research institutions request lot-specific COAs?
Yes, PX1 Research provides downloadable, lot-specific Certificates of Analysis including full HPLC chromatograms and mass spectra for every order.
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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.