Melanocortin Peptides

Melanocortin peptides are research compounds that interact with the melanocortin receptor family (MC1R–MC5R), receptors that differ in where they are expressed, from melanocytes and the adrenal cortex to the brain and exocrine glands. This category includes analogs of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) such as Melanotan 1, Melanotan 2, and PT-141 (bremelanotide), studied in preclinical models of melanocortin-receptor pharmacology.

Supplied lyophilized at 99%+ purity, third-party tested by HPLC and mass spectrometry. For laboratory and research use only.

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About melanocortin research peptides

The melanocortin receptors (MC1R to MC5R) respond to alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and related peptides. This category holds synthetic alpha-MSH analogs and a short alpha-MSH fragment used in receptor pharmacology research.

Compounds in this category

Receptor selectivity is the main variable across this group. MC1R is expressed mainly on melanocytes, MC3R and MC4R mainly in the brain, and MC5R in exocrine glands, so an analog that reaches more of these receptors produces a broader, harder-to-attribute signal.

Frequently asked questions

How do Melanotan 1 and Melanotan 2 differ?

Melanotan 1 is a linear analog of alpha-MSH, while Melanotan 2 is a shorter cyclic analog with activity across more of the melanocortin receptors.

Is KPV a melanocortin agonist?

KPV is the last three amino acids of alpha-MSH. It is studied mainly in inflammatory signaling models rather than as a full receptor agonist.

How are these peptides supplied?

As lyophilized powder at 99%+ purity, verified by independent HPLC and mass spectrometry, for laboratory research use only.

All compounds are supplied as lyophilized powder at 99%+ purity for laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.