Research Overview

Melanotan 1, also known as Afamelanotide or MT-1, is a synthetic peptide analogue of naturally occurring α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), incorporating the [Nle4, D-Phe7] substitutions that enhance stability and receptor affinity in experimental systems. In controlled in vitro and in vivo research models it is used to investigate melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) agonism, melanocyte signaling pathways, melanin synthesis and photobiological responses to ultraviolet (UV) exposure. No therapeutic or clinical claims are made or implied.

Primary Research Areas

• Melanocortin receptor signaling: studies of MC1R activation, downstream cAMP/PKA pathways and transcriptional control of pigment-related genes in melanocytic cell models and other systems expressing melanocortin receptors.
• Melanogenesis & pigment biology: research into eumelanin synthesis, melanosome biogenesis, pigment distribution and regulatory feedback loops in pigmentation biology.
• Photobiology & UV-response models: experimental designs exploring cellular responses to UV radiation, including photobiological stress pathways and melanin-mediated modulation of UV-induced damage in controlled models.
• Erythropoietic protoporphyria research models: tool compound in research on porphyrin-related photosensitivity, exploring how melanocortin-based modulation of pigmentation affects experimental EPP models.
• DNA damage & repair after UV exposure: studies of UV-induced DNA lesions, repair kinetics and associated oxidative stress markers in relation to increased melanin levels and melanocortin signaling.

Reconstitution

For dissolving lyophilized peptide powder, laboratory practice uses a sterile research solvent such as bacteriostatic water (BAC), which supports handling stability and reduces the risk of contamination.