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Melanotan I (MT-1)

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Peptide BlendPeptidesResearch Peptides

Melanocortin research peptide is commonly studied for pigmentation response, appetite pathways, and metabolic laboratory applications.

All products currently listed on this site are for research purposes only.

Original price was: $55.00.Current price is: $49.50.

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How Melanotan I (MT-1) Works

The Science, Simplified

Selective MC1R Receptor Agonism

MT-1 is a synthetic, linear analog of the naturally occurring $\alpha$-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone ($\alpha$-MSH). It is engineered with specific amino acid modifications that make it highly selective for the Melanocortin 1 Receptor (MC1R).
Key insight: MC1R is located almost exclusively on the surface of melanocytes (skin cells). By binding selectively to this receptor, MT-1 triggers a cellular cascade that stimulates eumelanogenesis—the synthesis of eumelanin pigment—without broadly activating other melanocortin receptors.

Photoprotection & DNA Repair Signaling

In research models, MT-1 activation increases eumelanin synthesis in melanocytes.

Key insight: In research models, MT-1 is observed to up-regulate the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway. This cellular mechanism is associated with DNA-repair processes and is a subject of interest in melanocortin-receptor research.

Non-Cyclic Structural Profile

MT-1 preserves a linear peptide structure, mimicking the body's natural signaling molecules closely.

Key insight: Unlike the cyclic structure of Melanotan-2 (MT-2), which binds aggressively to central receptors like MC4R, MT-1’s linear configuration limits its central nervous system activity. This means it provides selective MC1R-pigmentation research data with limited central melanocortin-receptor activity compared with the cyclic version.

Research Handling Notes

What research literature describes

MT-1 is a well-characterized melanocortin research peptide with an extensively documented profile, providing a transparent baseline for laboratory research.

🧿 Reagent Handling Guidance

15%

Store Lyophilized at -20°C

lab use

10%

Reconstitute for Lab Use

lab use

5%

Protect From Light

lab use

Safety Advantage

High Selectivity Profile

  • Receptor Selectivity: Because it avoids significant interaction with the MC4R receptor, MT-1 shows limited central melanocortin activity relative to MT-2 in research models.
  • Natural Melanin Balance: It drives the production of eumelanin (the brown/black pigment) rather than pheomelanin (the red/yellow pro-oxidant pigment), which alters the oxidative profile observed in melanocyte research models.
  • No Endocrine Suppression: It operates strictly as a cell-surface signaling peptide, leaving the primary thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive hormonal axes completely unbothered.

Compound Information

Technical specifications for this linear melanocortin analog

🔬 Molecular Profile

What is Melanotan I (MT-1)?

Type

Synthetic linear peptide

CAS Number

75921-69-6

Molecular Formula

C78H111N21O19

Molecular Weight

1646.8 g/mol

Amino Acids

Cyclic lactam

Sequence

Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2

🧊 Storage Requirements

Stability Information

Lyophilized (Powder)

store at -20°C

for up to 24 months.

Reconstituted solution

Store at 2–8°C

Best used within 14–30 days

Handling Notes

Protect from direct light exposure

📊 Physical Properties

Research Status

Classification

Selective MC1R Receptor Agonist

Clinical Status

FDA Approved (Scenesse - Implantable Form)

Primary Research Goals

Photoprotection, Vitiligo, Solar Urticaria, DNA Repair

US Regulatory Status

Investigational Research Chemical

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Melanotan I (MT-1)

The main difference is receptor selectivity. MT-1 is a linear peptide that selectively targets the MC1R receptor, while MT-2 is a cyclic peptide that interacts with multiple melanocortin receptors across the central nervous system.
In research models, MT-1 activates the melanin biosynthesis pathway directly and independently of UV exposure.
In research models, increased eumelanin density is associated with the nucleotide excision repair pathway and DNA-repair enzyme activity.
In research models, melanocyte stimulation occurs across the sample; regions with higher baseline melanin concentration show correspondingly greater pigmentation response. This response is transient in the research model.
Yes. While it is prescription-only in its commercial medical form (Scenesse), the raw lyophilized powder format is completely legal to buy and import globally as an investigational research chemical meant strictly for laboratory evaluation.

Sources & References

Peer-reviewed research

  • Important Research Notice

Not for human consumption. This product is sold exclusively for research and educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

All research data and findings presented on this page are sourced from peer-reviewed journals and official publications. They are provided for educational reference only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or product claims.

By purchasing this product, you confirm that you are a qualified researcher and will use it in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.

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