Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide): What the Research Shows
Melanotan 1 — known in research literature as afamelanotide — is one of the most-studied melanocortin peptides, and it is frequently confused with its cousin Melanotan 2. This overview explains what Melanotan 1 is, how it differs from MT-2, and what the research describes, strictly for educational and research context.
What Melanotan 1 actually is
Melanotan 1 is a synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It acts as an agonist at melanocortin receptors, with relatively selective activity at MC1R — the receptor most associated with melanogenesis, the body's natural pigment-production pathway.
Melanotan 1 vs Melanotan 2
The two are often grouped together but differ in receptor selectivity. Melanotan 1 (afamelanotide) is comparatively selective for MC1R, the pigmentation pathway, whereas Melanotan 2 is a more non-selective melanocortin agonist that also activates receptors such as MC4R. That selectivity difference is the main reason researchers study them as distinct compounds.
What the research explores
Research on afamelanotide has centred on MC1R activation and melanogenesis, and it has a notably developed clinical research history — it has been investigated in formal programmes related to photoprotection in specific light-sensitivity conditions. For researchers, that gives Melanotan 1 a more substantial evidence base than many peptides studied in this category.
Handling and preparation
Melanotan 1 is supplied as a lyophilised powder, kept cold and protected from light, then reconstituted for laboratory work. Our reconstitution guide and the on-site peptide calculator walk through preparing a solution and calculating concentration. Every batch ships with a per-batch Certificate of Analysis so identity and purity can be verified.
Important context
This article summarises published research for educational purposes only. Melanotan 1 is supplied strictly for laboratory and research use only — not for human or veterinary use, consumption, or injection. Nothing here is medical advice, a recommendation, or a dosing protocol. The mechanisms described are research findings, not approved claims, and researchers are responsible for safe handling and compliance with applicable laws.
The bottom line
Melanotan 1 (afamelanotide) is an α-MSH analogue studied for MC1R activation and melanogenesis, distinguished from Melanotan 2 by its greater receptor selectivity and a comparatively developed clinical research record. As with everything we carry, our Melanotan 1 comes with full batch documentation and a verifiable COA.
Research use only. Educational content, not medical advice.