Melanotan 2 (MT2)

The Tanning Peptide

Achieve a Perfect Tan: Experience the Skin-Darkening Benefits of Melanotan 2

Melanotan 2 (MT2) is a synthetic peptide, a lab-created molecule that mimics a natural hormone in our bodies called melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). This hormone is involved in the pigmentation of our skin, essentially helping to control how dark or light our skin appears. Melanotan 2 binds to the melanocortin receptors in the body, which are involved in a variety of functions including skin and hair pigmentation, appetite, and sexual arousal.

The main purpose of Melanotan 2 is to promote tanning. It does this by stimulating the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. When the body produces more melanin, the skin darkens, simulating a tan. Because it can increase pigmentation without exposure to harmful UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds, it has garnered interest as a potential ‘tanning agent’.

Potential Benefits Under Research

• Enhanced Tanning: Promotes increased melanin production, potentially offering a safer way to achieve a tan without UV exposure, thus reducing skin damage risks.
• Appetite Suppression: Could potentially assist in weight management, which is a crucial aspect of managing type 2 diabetes, by reducing caloric intake through its effects on appetite-regulating pathways in the brain.
• Possible Sexual Health Benefits: Investigated for its ability to treat sexual dysfunctions such as erectile dysfunction, which can be a complication of diabetes.
• Photoprotection for Sensitive Skin Conditions: Might offer protection against UV rays for individuals with skin conditions, reducing sun-related flare-ups or reactions.
• Potential Diabetes Benefits:
  • Reduced Insulin Resistance: Early studies suggest Melanotan 2 may improve insulin sensitivity, which could help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
  • Weight Control: By potentially suppressing appetite, it could aid in obesity management, a significant factor in diabetes.
• Potential Autism Benefits:
  • Behavioral Regulation: Some preliminary evidence hints at Melanotan 2 possibly influencing brain receptors involved in mood and behavior, which could theoretically benefit some behavioral symptoms associated with autism.
  • Enhanced Social Interaction: There’s a hypothesis that due to its effects on brain receptors, Melanotan 2 might impact social behavior, potentially offering improvements in social interaction for individuals with autism.

Dosing Protocol for Research Purposes

General Experimental Use:

• Dosage: 0.025 mg/kg to 0.05 mg/kg
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection
• Frequency: Starting with a small dose and gradually increasing to minimize side effects.

Specific Anecdotal Reports:

Tanning:

• Initial Dose: 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg per day
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection
• Duration: Daily for the first week, then 2-3 times per week until the desired level of tanning is achieved.
• Maintenance Dose: 0.5 mg to 1 mg per week.

Sexual Function:

• Dosage: 0.025 mg/kg to 0.05 mg/kg
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection
• Timing: Administered 30-60 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.

Example Dosing Protocols from Studies and Anecdotal Evidence:

1. Study on Erectile Dysfunction:
   • Dosage: 0.025 mg/kg
   • Administration: Subcutaneous injection 30-60 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.
2. Anecdotal Reports for Tanning:
   • Initial Loading Phase: 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg daily for one week.
   • Maintenance Phase: 0.5 mg to 1 mg per week, adjusted based on individual response and desired tan.

Overview

Melanotan 2 is a synthetic version of human alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (a-MSH). It was originally developed in the 1980s, at the University of Arizona, after it was found that a-MSH caused sexual arousal in rodents as well as darkening of the skin.

Structure

Peptide Sequence: Nle-Asp(1)-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys(1)

Molecular Formula: C50H69N15O9Molecular Weight: 1024.198 g/molPub

Chem CID: 92432CAS Number: 121062-08-6

Melanotan 2 Research

Melanotan 2 and Melanocortin Signaling

Melanotan 2 produces its effects by binding with melanocortin receptors. There are five known melanocortin receptors, each with different functions. MT-2 is known to bind primarily to MC-4R and MC-1R, but also binds weakly to MC-3R.

• MC-1R: Found on melanocytes, stimulation of MC-1R causes darkening of the skin and hair.
• MC-2R: Found in the adrenal glands, MC-2R binding promotes the secretion of adrenal hormones, such as cortisol.
• MC-3R: MC-3R is involved in appetite control and energy regulation, but little else is known about this receptor.
• MC-4R: Stimulation of MC-4R causes changes in feeding and sexual behavior. It also affects male erectile function and energy homeostasis.
• MC-5R: MC-5R is expressed on sweat glands and pancreatic islet cells.

Melanotan 2 and Autism

The newest research finding for MT-2 indicates that the peptide can reverse certain autistic features in a commonly used mouse model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There is no treatment for the condition, but a recent search has indicated that oxytocin therapy may be useful in mitigating some of the behavioral problems associated with ASD. Using a mouse model of maternal immune activation known to lead to autism, researchers investigated whether MT2, which is known to stimulate oxytocin release, could counteract ASD or reduce common ASD behaviors. Their research revealed that the administration of MT-2 reverses the decreased communication, impaired social interaction, and repetitive behaviors associated with autism in this particular model. In fact, the researchers found that MT-2 administration increased the expression of oxytocin receptors in specific parts of the brain, suggesting a direct correlation between oxytocin signaling in those areas and ASD-specific behaviors.

Impact of MT-2 on sociability in rats with ASD (MIA) showing that MT-2 returns sociability ratings to near the baseline of control animals(C57).Source: PubMed

These findings not only suggest potential avenues for developing a treatment for ASD, they have helped to define a specific brain pathway that may be integral to the development of ASD in the first place. These findings could help scientists develop a complete model of ASD and thus both treatments and preventative measures.

Melanotan 2 and Hunger

There is good evidence to suggest that MT-2 can reduce fat storage and hunger behavior in animal models. Researchers have found that the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC-4R) plays a role in food preferences and intake and that MT-2 is a potent agonist of MC-4R. Administration of MT-2 to mice causes significant reductions in how much food they consume, but also changes their preference for fatty foods. Mice given MT-2 ignore fatty foods, which they would otherwise prefer. Similarly, mice devoid of the MC-4R receptor consume fatty foods almost exclusively and are immune to the effects of MT-2.

The effects of MT-2 are similar to those of the hormone leptin, sometimes called the satiety hormone because it reduces cravings and food intake. Leptin, however, has never been useful in the treatment of obesity, even in individuals who are leptin-deficient. This is likely because there are two pathways for satiety, called leptin-dependent and leptin-independent pathways. Research suggests MT-2 is more effective in stimulating both pathways and thus may be a more effective exogenous treatment for reducing hunger. This latter finding has been bolstered by the discovery that thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) gene expression, which has long been known to play a role in the leptin-satiety pathway, is also affected by MC-4R stimulation. Both MT-2 and leptin are thought to cause an increase in TRH expression in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, a region of the brain associated with satiety and food intake, but only MT-2 crosses into the central nervous system in concentrations high enough to have an effect on TRH expression.

Melanotan 2 and Diabetes

The pathogenesis of diabetes is defined by high blood sugar levels, hypersecretion of glucagon, and the production of ketone bodies. It has been known for some time that leptin counteracts these factors by increasing the uptake of glucose, suppressing glucagon production, and interfering with the pathway that leads to ketone body formation. These actions do not depend on insulin and thus leptin signaling is being actively investigated as an alternative means by which diabetes might be treated.

Research has revealed that leptin’s effects on blood sugar are regulated through melanocortin receptors and that MT-2 produces similar effects. This is significant because leptin has its primary effects on the brain but does not cross the blood-brain barrier as readily as MT-2. Thus, exogenously administered leptin does not reach the CNS in substantial quantities, a fact that reduces its effectiveness as a drug and hands an advantage to MT-2 even though the effects of the two peptides on melanocortin receptors are nearly identical.

Melanotan 2, Impulse Control and Alcohol Intake

In keeping with the idea that MT-2 may affect oxytocin signaling and thus behavior in ASD, research also reveals that the MC-4R receptor may play a role in impulse control. Past studies in rats have shown that administration of MT-2 reduces alcohol intake and increases water intake even in rats that prefer alcohol. More recently, research has revealed that melanotan-2 works synergistically (boosting efficacy more than seven-fold) with naltrexone to blunt binge-like ethanol intake in mice.

Percent of baseline alcohol consumption in mice treated with naltrexone or naltrexone and MT-2.Source: PubMed

These findings suggest that MT-2 might not only be an effective treatment in alcohol-related disorders, but that the peptide is tapping into a more fundamental process of craving and desire in the mammalian brain. This research may open up pathways to a deeper understanding not just of alcohol abuse and hunger, but the role of oxytocin in impulsive behavior. It may even help researchers identify craving pathways and advance our understanding of human motivation in aspects of life ranging from work to relationships.

Melanotan 2 and Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often attributed to vascular issues and can be effectively treated in a majority of men via sildenafil (Viagra) and other drugs that improve blood flow by reducing vascular resistance. Not all ED is due to vascular issues, however, and so sildenafil and similar drugs are ineffective in a small percentage of men and in the vast majority of women who suffer from hypoactive sexual desire disorder. It has long been known that MT-2 is an effective treatment for ED, but research suggests that it may have more wide-ranging applications than drugs like sildenafil due to its actions in the central nervous system. In a study of men who had failed treatment with Viagra, eighty percent responded to MT-2 treatment. MT-2 has been actively investigated in the past as a treatment for both male and female sexual desire disorders.

Future MT-2 Research

MT-2 is a heavily researched peptide, particularly regarding human behavior, sexual desire, and impulse control. The peptide, in various forms, has been investigated in clinical trials, though problems with routes of administration have forced scientists back to the drawing board. There is active and ongoing research into the benefits of this particular peptide.

MT-2 exhibits minimal to moderate side effects, low oral and excellent subcutaneous bioavailability in mice. Per kg dosage in mice does not scale to humans. MT-2 for sale at Life Link Research is limited to educational and scientific research only, not for human consumption. Only buy MT2 if you are a licensed researcher.

Article Author

The above literature was researched, edited and organized by Dr. Logan, M.D. Dr. Logan holds a doctorate degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and a B.S. in molecular biology.

Scientific Journal Author

Dr. Wessells is a UW professor, chair of the Department of Urology, and has served on several national and international professional and government committees, including the WHO International Consultations on Erectile and Sexual Dysfunction, an NIDDK working group on urological complications of diabetes, and an NIH symposium on diabetes. He is a surgeon, researcher and expert on urogenital trauma and erectile dysfunction. His clinical interests include reconstructive surgery of the genitourinary tract, acute injury management and complex surgery for male sexual dysfunction. His research interests are in urogenital trauma epidemiology and management; the physiology and pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction; reconstructive surgery; crash injury mechanics; and neurological complications of diabetes. A pro-erectile melanocortin agonist developed by Dr. Wessells and his collaborators at the University of Arizona is in clinical trials for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Dr. Wessells is being referenced as one of the leading scientists involved in the research and development of Melanotan 2. In no way is this doctor/scientist endorsing or advocating the purchase, sale, or use of this product for any reason. There is no affiliation or relationship, implied or otherwise, between Life Link Research and this doctor. The purpose of citing the doctor is to acknowledge, recognize, and credit the exhaustive research and development efforts conducted by the scientists studying this peptide. Dr. Wessells is listed in [11] and [12] under the referenced citations.

Referenced Citations

1. E. Minakova et al., “Melanotan-II reverses autistic features in a maternal immune activation mouse model of autism,” PLoS ONE, vol. 14, no. 1, Jan. 2019. 
2. A. van der Klaauw et al., “Role of melanocortin signaling in the preference for dietary macronutrients in human beings,” Lancet Lond. Engl., vol. 385 Suppl 1, p. S12, Feb. 2015. 
3. H. Shimizu, K. Inoue, and M. Mori, “The leptin-dependent and -independent melanocortin signaling system: regulation of feeding and energy expenditure,” J. Endocrinol., vol. 193, no. 1,pp. 1–9, Apr. 2007. 
4. C. Bjørbaek and A. N. Hollenberg, “Leptin and melanocortin signaling in the hypothalamus,”Vitam. Horm., vol. 65, pp. 281–311, 2002. 
5. F. Guo, K. Bakal, Y. Minokoshi, and A. N. Hollenberg, “Leptin Signaling Targets theThyrotropin-Releasing Hormone Gene Promoter in Vivo,” Endocrinology, vol. 145, no. 5, pp.2221–2227, May 2004. 
6. Y. H. Lee, M.-Y. Wang, X.-X. Yu, and R. H. Unger, “Glucagon is the key factor in the development of diabetes,” Diabetologia, vol. 59, no. 7, pp. 1372–1375, 2016. 
7. C. Toda et al., “Distinct effects of leptin and a melanocortin receptor agonist injected into medial hypothalamic nuclei on glucose uptake in peripheral tissues,” Diabetes, vol. 58, no. 12,pp. 2757–2765, Dec. 2009. 
8. D. A. York, S. Boghossian, and M. Park-York, “Melanocortin activity in the amygdala influences alcohol intake,” Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav., vol. 98, no. 1, pp. 112–119, Mar. 2011. 
9. M. Navarro, F. Carvajal, J. M. Lerma-Cabrera, I. Cubero, M. J. Picker, and T. E. Thiele,“Evidence that Melanocortin Receptor Agonist Melanotan-II Synergistically Augments theAbility of Naltrexone to Blunt Binge-Like Ethanol Intake in Male C57BL/6J Mice,” Alcohol. Clin.Exp. Res., vol. 39, no. 8, pp. 1425–1433, Aug. 2015. 
10. “Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study. – PubMed – NCBI.” [Online].Available: [Accessed: 15-May-2019].. 
11. WESSELLS, H. , HRUBY, V. J., HACKETT, J. , HAN, G. , BALSE‐SRINIVASAN, P. and VANDERAH, T. W. (2003), MT‐II Induces Penile Erection via Brain and Spinal Mechanisms. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 994: 90-95. 
12. Wessells, H. (1998). Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: Double Blind placebo controlled crossover study. Nature.com.Available at: 
13. M. T. Islam et al., “Vasopressin neurons in the paraventricular hypothalamus promotes wakefulness via lateral hypothalamic orexin neurons,” Curr. Biol. CB, pp. S0960-9822(22)01121–6, Jul. 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.07.020. 
14. J. K. Y. Lau et al., “Melanocortin receptor activation alleviates amyloid pathology and glial reactivity in an Alzheimer’s disease transgenic mouse model,” Sci. Rep., vol. 11, no. 1, p.4359, Feb. 2021, doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-83932-4.