MT-2 (Melanotan 2 Acetate)

MT-2 (Melanotan 2 Acetate) Overview

MT-2 (Melanotan II Acetate) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that functions as a high-affinity, non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors . Developed as a more potent and stable alternative to natural α-MSH, MT-2 incorporates a lactam bridge between Asp5 and Lys10 that restricts conformational flexibility and confers enhanced metabolic stability .

This research peptide interacts with multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes—MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R—making it a valuable pharmacological probe for investigating diverse physiological systems including pigmentation, energy homeostasis, sexual function, and inflammation . The acetate salt form provides defined aqueous solubility and batch consistency for laboratory applications .

⚠️ Research Context: This product is intended exclusively for in-vitro and laboratory research purposes. It is not approved by the FDA for human use and is not a dietary supplement or pharmaceutical for over-the-counter purchase .

Mechanism of Action

MT-2 functions as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors :

Melanocortin Receptor Binding Profile :

Key Signaling Effects:

• MC1R Activation: Stimulates melanogenesis, increasing skin pigmentation 

• MC4R Activation: Decreases food intake, increases energy expenditure 

• MC3R/MC4R Modulation: Influences sexual function and energy homeostasis 

Key Research Applications:

• Pigmentation biology and melanogenesis studies

• Melanocortin receptor pharmacology and signaling

• Energy homeostasis and metabolic regulation

• Receptor selectivity and structure-activity relationship (SAR) investigations

• Comparative studies with selective analogs (PT-141, Melanotan I)

Product Specifications

Quality Assurance

Every batch of MT-2 undergoes rigorous analytical testing to ensure maximum purity and research integrity:

Certificate of Analysis (COA) available upon request.

Research Background

Discovery & Development

MT-2 was first synthesized at the University of Arizona by researchers including Victor Hruby. The team sought to develop a more potent and stable alternative to natural α-MSH for potential applications in melanoma prevention and treatment . The cyclic structure distinguishes MT-2 from its linear predecessor Melanotan I (afamelanotide) and confers distinct receptor selectivity and metabolic stability profiles .

Receptor Selectivity Profile

MT-2 vs. Related Melanocortin Compounds :

Why This Matters in Research : For pigmentation studies, MT-2 demonstrates approximately 10-fold higher MC1R affinity than PT-141 and induces 2.3-fold greater melanin production at matched doses in B16-F10 melanoma cell models. For energy homeostasis research, MT-2 provides balanced MC4R activation comparable to endogenous α-MSH—a profile not offered by the MC1R-selective Melanotan I .

In Vivo Research Applications

• Metabolic Studies: MT-2 (1 nmol, i.c.v.) increases oxygen consumption, UCP1 protein levels in brown adipose tissue, and decreases food intake, body weight, and serum leptin, glucose, insulin, and cholesterol in rodent models .

• Neuroprotection: Research has investigated MT-2’s effects on nerve function recovery after mechanical injury in rats .

• Pigmentation Research: Clinically validated as an inducer of melanogenesis in human research settings .

Storage & Reconstitution Guidelines

Storage Conditions:

• Lyophilized (Long-term): -20°C, protected from light, dry, sealed 

• Lyophilized (Short-term): 2°C – 8°C (refrigerated)

• Reconstituted: 4°C for up to 7 days; aliquot and store at -20°C for longer storage; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles

Reconstitution Protocol:

1. Allow vial to reach room temperature

2. Add sterile bacteriostatic water or 0.9% sodium chloride solution

3. Gently swirl (do not vortex) until fully dissolved

4. Dispense into individual aliquots to minimize freeze-thaw degradation

Note: Peptides are sensitive to formulation, process, and environmental conditions that may lead to aggregation and degradation.

Important Notice

⚠️ FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY

This product is not intended for human consumption, diagnostic use, therapeutic application, or clinical administration. MT-2 is a research chemical intended exclusively for in-vitro and laboratory research purposes .

• Not approved by the FDA for human use

• Not a dietary supplement, food additive, or pharmaceutical for over-the-counter purchase

• Intended solely for qualified researchers and scientific institutions

By purchasing this product, you confirm that you are a licensed researcher or laboratory professional and agree to use this compound in compliance with all applicable local, national, and international regulations.

Why Choose PeptidesUnit.com?

Order Now

MT-2 (Melanotan II Acetate) Peptide – ≥99% Purity
Available for immediate shipment

🛒 BUY NOW at PeptidesUnit.com