MT-1 (Melanotan 1)
Lab-Tested ≥98% Purity · Certificate of Analysis Included · Global Shipping
MT-1 (Melanotan 1) — Alpha-MSH Analog for Dermatological and Photoprotection Research
MT-1 (Melanotan 1), also known as Afamelanotide, is a synthetic tridecapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). First developed at the University of Arizona in the 1980s by Hruby and Hadley, this linear peptide binds with high selectivity to the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), making it a valuable research tool for investigating melanogenesis, photoprotection pathways, and UV-induced DNA damage repair mechanisms. Unlike its cyclic counterpart Melanotan II, MT-1 demonstrates preferential MC1R selectivity with minimal cross-reactivity at MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R subtypes.
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan 1 activates the MC1R signaling cascade in melanocytes, stimulating adenylyl cyclase activity and increasing intracellular cAMP concentrations. This triggers CREB-mediated transcription of the MITF (microphthalmia-associated transcription factor) gene, which subsequently upregulates tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2 enzymes essential for eumelanin biosynthesis. Research published in FASEB Journal (2005) demonstrated that MC1R activation by α-MSH analogs also enhances nucleotide excision repair (NER) of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, independent of pigmentation effects, suggesting dual protective mechanisms against UV-induced mutagenesis.
Key Research Areas
- Melanogenesis Pathways: In-vitro studies using human melanocyte cultures have demonstrated that MT-1 induces dose-dependent increases in eumelanin production through MC1R-cAMP-MITF signaling, providing researchers with a selective pharmacological tool for studying pigmentation biology.
- Photoprotection Research: Published clinical studies in The New England Journal of Medicine (2015) investigated MT-1 in the context of erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), demonstrating increased pain-free sun exposure duration and melanin density in treated subjects, establishing a model for photoprotective compound evaluation.
- DNA Damage Repair: Research has shown that MC1R signaling activated by MT-1 enhances the repair of UV-induced DNA photoproducts through cAMP-dependent upregulation of XPC and DDB2 nucleotide excision repair proteins, independent of melanin production.
- Skin Biology Models: Investigators have utilized MT-1 in 3D skin equivalent models and organotypic cultures to study melanocyte-keratinocyte crosstalk, melanosome transfer dynamics, and the paracrine effects of melanocortin signaling on surrounding cell populations.
Why Researchers Choose Peptides BioLab
Every batch of MT-1 (Melanotan 1) supplied by Peptides BioLab undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis, ensuring ≥98% purity verified by an independent Certificate of Analysis (CoA). Our MT-1 is supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability and shelf life, shipped worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities in temperature-controlled packaging.
Related Research Peptides
Researchers studying melanocortin receptor signaling and dermatological pathways may also find these compounds relevant: Melanotan II, PT-141, and GHK-Cu. For a complete overview, browse our Sexual Health Research and Anti-Aging Research collections.
For research purposes only — Not for human consumption. All products are intended solely for in-vitro research and laboratory use.
Every Peptides BioLab product includes a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with HPLC and MS data confirming ≥98% purity. The CoA is available in the product tabs as the 2nd image, or contact our team to request a copy.
Shipping: We ship worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities. Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Express and standard shipping options available at checkout.
Storage: Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 30 days. Keep away from direct sunlight.
