Description
CAS 121062-08-6
Melanotan II
Melanocortin analogs like Melanotan II were developed when researchers examining skin pigmentation found that signaling peptides derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC) influence melanocyte activity. Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic peptide that preferentially binds to melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R, in order to replicate the effects of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It increases pigmentation regardless of UV exposure by stimulating melanin formation in skin cells through this receptor connection. Its structure permits interaction with other melanocortin receptors involved in sexual function and appetite in addition to pigmentation, demonstrating how minor modifications in peptide structure can expand physiological consequences. Therefore, rather than being a straightforward cosmetic agent, Melanotan II is extensively researched for its function in melanocortin signaling (Hadley & Haskell-Luevano, 1999; Cone, 2006).
References
Hadley, M. E., & Haskell-Luevano, C. (1999). The proopiomelanocortin system. Endocrine Reviews.
Cone, R. D. (2006). Studies on the physiological functions of the melanocortin system. Nature Neuroscience.
