Melanotan II #

• Acronym: MT-II
• Amino Acid Sequence: Ac-Nle-Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys-NH2
• Primary Functions and Actions:
  • Stimulates melanogenesis (production of melanin).
  • Increases libido and sexual function.
• Mechanism of Action:
  • Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).
  • It binds to melanocortin receptors (MC1R) in melanocytes, stimulating melanin production.
  • It also affects MC4R receptors in the brain, which can influence sexual function and appetite.
• Systems Activated:
  • Integumentary System: Affects skin pigmentation.
  • Nervous System: Influences sexual function and appetite.
• Dosage and Timing:
  • Dosages vary, but a common protocol is 0.5-1 mg per day until desired pigmentation is achieved, then a maintenance dose of 1-2 times per week.
  • Administered via subcutaneous injection.
  • Timing is not critical.
• Contraindications and Side Effects:
  • Side effects can include nausea, flushing, increased libido, and darkening of moles.
  • Contraindicated in individuals with a history of melanoma or other skin cancers.
• Potential Uses:
  • Increasing skin pigmentation
  • Reducing sun sensitivity
  • Treating sexual dysfunction
• References:
  • PMID: 9023102, PMID: 15163152
• PMID: 9023102 – [Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1996 Dec 10;93(25):14823-7.] – A synthetic melanotropic peptide protects human skin against ultraviolet radiation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9023102/
• PMID: 15163152 – [J Urol. 2004 Jul;172(1):224-6.] – Melanotan II, a melanocortin receptor agonist, improves male erectile function: a randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15163152/

Article Summaries #

PMID: 9023102 #

This study investigated a synthetic melanotropic peptide’s ability to protect human skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The researchers aimed to understand how this peptide could serve as a protective agent against UV-induced skin damage.

The results indicated that the synthetic peptide significantly reduced UV-induced skin damage in human skin models. It was found to enhance the skin’s pigmentation response, which helps shield underlying tissues from radiation effects, suggesting its protective qualities.

In conclusion, the findings suggest that this synthetic melanotropic peptide could be a valuable agent for protecting skin health against UV damage. This has implications for developing new skincare products designed to prevent sun-related skin issues.

PMID: 15163152 #

This article examined the effects of Melanotan II, a synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist, on male erectile function. The objective was to evaluate whether this peptide could improve erectile function compared to a placebo.

The results of the randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study showed that participants receiving Melanotan II experienced significant improvements in erectile function. This suggests that Melanotan II positively affects pathways involved in sexual arousal and function.

In conclusion, Melanotan II shows promise as a treatment option for enhancing erectile function in men. The positive outcomes indicate the need for further research to confirm its effectiveness and explore its potential applications in addressing erectile dysfunction.