Melanotan-I
10mg
A synthetic melanocortin analog used in melanogenesis research models.
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Research details
Areas of research interest
Melanotan-I is studied for skin pigmentation and protection against light-induced skin damage, especially in the rare light-sensitivity disorder erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Afamelanotide is the active ingredient in an FDA-approved prescription implant. This research-grade material is not that product and is not for human use.
Overview
Melanotan-I (afamelanotide, [Nle⁴, D-Phe⁷]-α-MSH) is a synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. It selectively activates the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) on skin pigment cells, which increases eumelanin, the darker protective form of skin pigment.
Research summary
Erythropoietic protoporphyria. Two parallel Phase 3 randomized trials tested afamelanotide in adults with EPP, a genetic disorder that makes light exposure painful [1]. Treated patients tolerated more pain-free time in direct sunlight than those on placebo [1].
Regulatory status. The European Medicines Agency approved afamelanotide for EPP in 2014, and FDA approved it in October 2019 as a subcutaneous implant.
Selectivity. Its selectivity for MC1R distinguishes it from Melanotan-II, which acts on several melanocortin receptors and has a different safety profile.
References
- 1. Langendonk JG, et al. N Engl J Med. 2015;373(1):48–59
For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. This product is not a drug, food, cosmetic, or dietary supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.