Melanotan (MT2)

Melanocortin receptor agonist.

Classification

Synthetic melanocortin peptide analogue. MT2, commonly known as Melanotan II, is a synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone studied for its interaction with melanocortin receptor pathways involved in pigmentation, metabolic signaling, and neuroendocrine activity.

Target Receptors

• MC1R melanocortin receptors – Associated with melanogenesis and pigmentation-related signaling.
• MC3R and MC4R melanocortin receptors – Involved in appetite, energy balance, and neuroendocrine signaling pathways.
• Broader melanocortin receptor activity – MT2 is considered non-selective across multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes.

Structure

MT2 is a synthetic cyclic peptide analogue of alpha-MSH designed to increase stability and receptor activity compared with naturally occurring melanocortin peptides.

Research Focus

Studied for its potential effects on melanogenesis, pigmentation pathways, appetite-related signaling, energy balance, and melanocortin receptor biology.