Melanotan II peptide is a synthetic cyclic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Vi Corpus supplies it as a 10 mg lyophilised vial for Australian laboratories that study melanocortin receptors, melanogenesis and appetite signalling.
Key research features of Melanotan II peptide
- Broad receptor activity. It activates MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R, which makes it a useful wide-spectrum tool.
- Pigmentation research. MC1R activation drives eumelanin production in melanocytes.
- Stable lactam ring. The cyclic structure resists enzyme breakdown better than natural alpha-MSH.
- Parent of PT-141. Bremelanotide is a metabolite of Melanotan II, so the pair are often studied together.
- Third-party tested. Reports are available through our Lab Tests page.
Melanotan II peptide specifications
| Compound | Melanotan II (MT-2) |
|---|---|
| Amount | 10 mg per vial |
| Form | Lyophilised (freeze-dried) powder |
| Sequence | Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 |
| Molecular formula | C50H69N15O9 |
| Molar mass | approx. 1024.2 g/mol |
| Reconstitution | Bacteriostatic water (sold separately) |
Research applications
Melanotan II was developed at the University of Arizona in the 1990s. Since then, researchers have used it to study skin pigmentation, food intake, energy balance and erectile function in animal models. For example, its MC4R activity has made it a reference compound in obesity research. However, it is not approved for human use anywhere, and the TGA has issued warnings about personal use. We therefore supply it for laboratory research only.
Storage and handling
Keep unopened vials refrigerated at 2–8 °C and protected from light. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, store the solution cold and avoid repeated freezing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Melanotan II and PT-141?
PT-141 is a metabolite of Melanotan II. It keeps the MC3R and MC4R activity but has much weaker MC1R pigmentation effects.
Is Melanotan II legal for personal use in Australia?
No. It is not approved by the TGA, so Vi Corpus sells it for laboratory research only.
Where can I find related compounds?
Browse our melanocortin peptides.



