MT-1

Peptide Name: MT-1 (Melanotan-1, Afamelanotide)
 
 
RESEARCHED AREAS AND BENEFITS
Melanogenesis stimulation increases pigment
UV protection reduces phototoxicity
DNA repair activity enhancement
Erythropoietic protoporphyria therapeutic use
Antioxidant capacity improvement effects
 
Chemical Name: [Nle4, D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH
CAS Number: 75921-69-6
 
DESCRIPTION
Melanotan-1 (MT-1) is a synthetic, linear peptide analogue of the naturally occurring alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone ($\alpha$-MSH). It acts as a potent, non-selective agonist of the melanocortin receptors, with a particularly high affinity for the MC1 receptor found on melanocytes. Unlike the natural hormone, MT-1 is modified with norleucine and D-phenylalanine to enhance its half-life and stability against enzymatic degradation. In research, it is primarily studied for its ability to induce systemic skin tanning (melanogenesis) independently of UV exposure, thereby providing a biological shield against sunlight-induced DNA damage. Since 2019, its pharmaceutical version, Afamelanotide, has been utilized for treating rare light-intolerance disorders.
 
Photoprotection: Research indicates that MT-1 increases the concentration of eumelanin, which acts as a neutral density filter to absorb and scatter harmful UV radiation.
Genomic Integrity: Studies show that activation of the MC1 receptor by MT-1 enhances nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathways, helping cells repair UV-induced DNA lesions.
Selectivity Profile: Compared to the cyclic variant Melanotan-2, MT-1 is more selective for pigmentation and has a lower incidence of central nervous system side effects like appetite suppression or spontaneous arousal.
Clinical Utility: Investigated extensively for the treatment of Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP), where it allows subjects to tolerate significantly longer periods of sunlight without pain.
 
KIT INCLUDES:
1x Peptide Vial
1x 10ml Sterile Water
1x Reconstitution Kit
 
REGULATORY NOTICES
SAHPRA DISCLAIMER
This product has not been evaluated by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
RESEARCH USE ONLY
 
 
SCIENTIFIC STUDIES
Benefits and risks of chronic melanocortin-1 receptor activation (2025 Review): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11664455/
Afamelanotide for the treatment of phototoxicity in EPP: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26132936/
Melanotropic peptides: More than just "Barbie drugs": https://medicaljournalssweden.se/actadv/article/view/9078/12559
Mechanism of Action of [Nle4, D-Phe7]-$\alpha$-MSH on Melanocytes: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/15/12152