Melanotan-1 (Melanota)

Melanotan-1 is a synthetic peptide developed as a structural analogue of the naturally occurring hormone α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is designed to activate melanocortin receptors involved in skin pigmentation and photoprotection. By stimulating melanocytes, Melanotan-1 increases endogenous melanin synthesis and distribution, resulting in gradual skin darkening with reduced reliance on ultraviolet exposure.

Beyond pigmentation, Melanotan-1 influences broader melanocortin signaling pathways associated with light tolerance and inflammatory modulation. These properties have led to extensive investigation in dermatological research, particularly in conditions characterized by photosensitivity and pigment dysregulation.

The peptide is supplied as a lyophilized powder to ensure optimal stability during storage and handling.

Melanotan-1 activates melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R) to promote melanogenesis, increase eumelanin synthesis, and reduce UV-induced DNA damage. Research has focused on its role in photoprotection, pigmentary disorders, and energy balance regulation. Studies have explored its utility in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and polymorphous light eruption. Unlike Melanotan 2, MT-1 demonstrates greater MC1R selectivity, resulting in a more targeted pigmentation profile with reduced off-target receptor activation (Langan et al., 2017 — British Journal of Dermatology).

The peptide is supplied as a lyophilized powder to ensure optimal stability during storage and handling. Store at -20°C, protected from moisture and light.