MT-1

Melanotan 1, also designated afamelanotide, is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) engineered for enhanced receptor binding affinity and proteolytic stability, with high selectivity for the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) expressed on melanocytes. MC1R activation by MT-1 stimulates intracellular cAMP production, upregulates tyrosinase activity, and drives preferential synthesis of eumelanin — the photoprotective dark pigment of the skin — independent of ultraviolet radiation exposure. Research has additionally examined its capacity to enhance nucleotide excision repair of UV-induced DNA damage through receptor-dependent and melanin-independent mechanisms; afamelanotide has received regulatory approval in the European Union and the United States for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Supplied as lyophilized powder, ≥99% purity. Store at -20°C. Research use only. Not for human consumption.