Melanotan I (MT-1) vs. Melanotan II (MT-2)
Updated October 2026
Both are synthetic analogs of α-MSH used in melanocortin-receptor research, but they differ in structure and receptor selectivity.
MT-1 (afamelanotide)
MT-1 is a linear analog of α-MSH. In research it's studied mainly at the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), the receptor most associated with pigmentation-pathway signaling in cell models.
MT-2 (melanotan II)
MT-2 is a cyclic analog with broader melanocortin-receptor activity. Its cyclic structure makes it more stable and less receptor-selective than MT-1, which is why the two are studied for different research questions.
Note
Both are supplied lyophilized for in-vitro laboratory research only. Not for human or veterinary use.