MW
1,646.9 g/mol
Purity
>99%
Pigmentation
MT-1
Melanotan I — Alpha-MSH Analog
Synthetic linear analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)
$75
Per vial · Research use only · COA available
Compound Profile
| Appearance | Lyophilized white powder |
| Molecular Weight | 1,646.9 g/mol |
| Amino Acids | 13 |
| Dosage | 10 mg |
| Volume | 3 mL |
| Solubility | Bacteriostatic or sterile water |
| Purity | ≥98% (HPLC-UV-MS verified) |
| Storage | −20°C long-term · 4°C short-term · Protect from light |
Amino Acid Sequence
Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-DPhe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2
COA, sterility, endotoxin, and heavy metal test results available upon request.
For Research Use Only. This product is not for human consumption, clinical use, or veterinary use. Must be 21+ to purchase. Not evaluated or approved by the FDA for any therapeutic use. Introduction into humans or animals is strictly prohibited by law.
Overview
About MT-1
Melanotan I (MT-1), also referred to by its generic name afamelanotide, is a synthetic linear analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. It is studied extensively for its role in melanogenesis — the pathway responsible for melanin production in skin — and for its selective activity at a single melanocortin receptor subtype, which distinguishes it from broader-acting melanocortin agonists.
Mechanism of Action
How It Works
MT-1 is a potent, highly selective agonist at the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), expressed primarily on melanocytes. Receptor activation triggers a cAMP-dependent signaling cascade that upregulates tyrosinase activity and stimulates eumelanin synthesis. Because MT-1 exhibits high MC1R selectivity relative to nonselective melanocortin agonists, research has focused heavily on its pigmentation and photoprotection applications, with comparatively limited activity at MC3R/MC4R — the receptor subtypes linked to appetite and libido effects in other melanocortin peptides.
Scientific Literature
Research Highlights
Selective MC1R agonism — targeted melanogenesis with limited off-target receptor activity
Tyrosinase upregulation — drives eumelanin synthesis in melanocyte research models
Studied for photoprotective potential against UV-induced skin damage
Reference compound in erythropoietic protoporphyria photosensitivity research
Minimal reported central MC3R/MC4R activity relative to cyclic melanocortin analogs
cAMP-mediated signaling cascade studied in melanocyte cell-culture models
Long-standing research interest in dermatological and pigmentation science
Research Disclaimer: All research highlights are derived from published preclinical, in vitro, and animal studies. Results observed in laboratory models may not translate to human outcomes. Genfinite makes no claims regarding therapeutic efficacy. All products are sold strictly for scientific research purposes only.
Handling
Storage & Reconstitution
Dry Storage
Store lyophilized powder at −20°C, away from light and moisture. Do not open until ready to use. Shelf life is significantly extended by proper dry storage.
Reconstitution
Reconstitute using Bacteriostatic or sterile water. Add solvent slowly to the side of the vial and allow to dissolve gently. Do not shake vigorously.
Post-Reconstitution
Store reconstituted solution refrigerated at 4°C. Use within your laboratory's established timeframe. Do not refreeze after reconstitution.
