Melanotan 1 (MT1)

Melanotan 1 (MT-1, afamelanotide) is a synthetic linear 13-amino-acid analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), distinguished from Melanotan 2 in our catalog by its receptor selectivity profile. Where Melanotan 2 is a cyclic, truncated analog with broad, non-selective agonist activity across MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, Melanotan 1 is a linear peptide engineered for high selectivity toward MC1R alone, with approximately 10-fold higher affinity for this receptor subtype compared to others in the melanocortin family.

This selectivity is mechanistically significant. MC1R activation triggers the same cAMP/PKA signaling cascade studied in our Melanotan 2 entry, but because MT-1 avoids meaningful engagement of MC3R and MC4R, which are expressed in the hypothalamus and linked to appetite and energy balance, its research profile is concentrated specifically on melanocyte biology: tyrosinase activation, eumelanin synthesis, and photoprotective mechanisms, without the central nervous system signaling associated with MC4R agonism. Research has additionally linked MC1R activation to upregulation of nucleotide excision repair enzymes and antioxidant pathways, suggesting a photoprotective function in melanocyte biology beyond pigmentation alone. This receptor-selective profile makes MT-1 a useful comparator peptide for isolating MC1R-specific effects from the broader melanocortin signaling studied via Melanotan 2.

Product Specifications

Purity: >99%, verified via HPLC
Form: Lyophilized powder
Vial Size: Multi-dose vial (supports up to 3ml reconstitution)

Reconstitution & Storage

Intended Use: For laboratory research purposes only. Reconstitution with Bacteriostatic Water (BAC water) is required before use.

Storage: Store lyophilized powder in a cool, dry place away from light. After reconstitution, keep refrigerated at 2-8°C.

Solubility: Reconstitute with BAC water. Gently swirl to dissolve, do not shake.

Shelf Life: Lyophilized form has a shelf life of up to 24 months. Once reconstituted, recommended use within 4-6 weeks.

Handling: Use sterile techniques to maintain product stability and integrity.

Important Notice

This product is intended for laboratory and research use only. It is not for human or veterinary consumption, and is not approved for use as a food, drug, cosmetic, or household chemical. Baldena Biolabs does not condone or support self-administration of this product. By purchasing, you confirm you are a qualified researcher or research institution and accept full responsibility for safe and legal handling in accordance with applicable laws.