Buy MT-2 (Melanotan II) — The Non-Selective Melanocortin Receptor Agonist for Pigmentation and Photoprotection Research

MT-2 (Melanotan II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Researchers study it extensively for its potent, non-selective agonist activity at four of the five known melanocortin receptors, which makes it a valuable tool for investigating melanogenesis, photoprotection, and metabolic regulation.

What Is MT-2?

MT-2 Melanotan II is a cyclic heptapeptide with the sequence Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2. Researchers originally developed MT-2 at the University of Arizona in the 1980s as part of skin cancer prevention work, where scientists sought to stimulate the body’s natural tanning response as a photoprotective mechanism against UV-induced DNA damage. Its cyclic structure enhances in vivo stability and blood-brain barrier permeability compared to endogenous α-MSH.

How Does MT-2 Work?

MT-2 binds with high affinity to MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, while showing negligible activity at MC2R. Consequently, its diverse physiological effects arise from activation of multiple receptor subtypes simultaneously.

MC1R-Mediated Melanogenesis

MT-2 stimulates melanogenesis primarily through activation of MC1R on melanocytes. Upon binding, MT-2 initiates a well-defined signaling cascade involving cAMP-PKA activation. This leads to CREB phosphorylation, which then translocates to the nucleus and binds the promoter region of the MITF gene. MITF, in turn, transcriptionally activates tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2, the key enzymes of melanin synthesis. As a result, eumelanin production increases, which provides photoprotective effects against UV radiation.

MC4R-Mediated Metabolic and CNS Effects

Additionally, MT-2 activates MC4R in the central nervous system, and researchers have linked that activation to modulation of appetite, energy homeostasis, and sexual function. Furthermore, studies demonstrate that central melanocortin receptor activation increases cavernosal pressure through neuronal release of nitric oxide, a mechanism of interest in erectile dysfunction research.

Key Research Applications

Researchers study MT-2 across a broad range of preclinical and clinical models.

• Melanogenesis and pigmentation pathway investigations

• Photoprotection and UV-induced DNA damage research

• Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and vitiligo repigmentation studies

• Melanocortin receptor signaling and cAMP-PKA pathway research

• Appetite regulation and metabolic homeostasis models

• Sexual function and nitric oxide signaling investigations

When you Buy MT-2 from our catalog, you receive a high-purity lyophilized research peptide available in 10mg vial configurations. We test every batch independently to ≥99% purity by HPLC, and we confirm identity through third-party mass spectrometry against the theoretical mass of 1024.2 g/mol. In addition, each batch undergoes LAL endotoxin testing and heavy metals screening. We include batch-specific Certificates of Analysis for full research transparency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MT-2 used for in research?

Researchers use MT-2 in laboratory studies of melanogenesis, photoprotection, melanocortin receptor signaling, and metabolic regulation. However, it is not approved for human or veterinary use in any jurisdiction.

How should I store MT-2?

Store the lyophilized vial at −20°C in a desiccated environment and protect it from light. After reconstitution, refrigerate the solution and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

What purity should I expect?

We test every batch to ≥99% purity by HPLC. We ship a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis with each order, and it covers HPLC purity, mass spectrometry identity, endotoxin levels, and heavy metals screening.

Is MT-2 the same as Melanotan I?

No. Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear analog with selectivity for MC1R, whereas MT-2 is a cyclic heptapeptide that acts non-selectively at MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R.

Important Research Disclaimer

This product is intended strictly for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or veterinary use, and not for diagnostic or therapeutic applications. As of 2026, MT-2 remains an unapproved investigational peptide with no approved indication in the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, or any other major regulatory jurisdiction. The Skin Cancer Foundation has issued warnings regarding serious reported side effects, including systemic toxicity and muscle damage. Therefore, no one outside an IRB-approved clinical research study should use MT-2. Qualified researchers should handle all peptides in accordance with institutional safety guidelines and applicable regulations.

Ready to Advance Your Melanocortin Research?

Buy MT-2 today and join laboratories worldwide that rely on verified purity, batch-level transparency, and U.S.-made quality.