Melanocortin
Peptides
Compound profile

Melanotan I: α-MSH Analogue and MC1R Agonism

Melanotan I is a synthetic analogue of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, developed as a selective MC1R agonist for photoprotective research.

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What it is

Melanotan I is a synthetic linear heptapeptide analogue of α-MSH with substitutions at positions 4 and 7 to enhance potency and stability. Selective agonist at the MC1R melanocortin receptor.

Evidence snapshot

Category: Melanocortin. Status: Preclinical. See the references section below for the underlying primary sources.

Mechanism

Activates MC1R on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. The increased melanin density provides UV-protective effects in skin.

Key research findings

Studied in photobiology and tanning research, with clinical trials in the 2000s investigating photoprotective applications in fair-skinned populations.

Limits of the evidence

Clinical development for tanning applications was halted. Off-label cosmetic use is widespread but not approved. Long-term safety of chronic MC1R agonism has not been characterised.

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