Melanotan I

Melanotan I Overview

Melanotan I is a synthetic tridecapeptide composed of 13 amino acids. It was originally derived from the naturally occurring hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), modified at two positions to resist enzymatic breakdown. Since its characterization in the early 1980s, Melanotan I has been studied extensively in controlled experimental settings for its potential influence on melanocyte activity, receptor signaling, and pigmentary processes.

Sawyer T.K. et al. (1980).

History

The peptide was first synthesized by researchers at the University of Arizona investigating more stable analogs of α-MSH, which degrades within minutes in circulation. Early experiments focused on its ability to sustain melanocyte stimulation and prolonged biological activity in pigmentation models. Over time, studies broadened into receptor, photoprotective, and systemic systems, where Melanotan I (later developed as afamelanotide) consistently demonstrated properties of interest in the context of melanogenesis and biological resilience.

Hadley M.E. et al. (1998).

Melanotan I Structure

CAS #:

75921-69-6

Molecular Formula:

C₇₈H₁₁₁N₂₁O₁₉

Molecular Weight:

1646.85 g/mol

PubChem ID:

16197727