Melanotan I (Afamelanotide): A Melanocortin Pigmentation Research Guide
What is Melanotan I?
Melanotan I, also known as afamelanotide, is a synthetic analogue of the hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It is studied for its activity at melanocortin receptors and, in particular, for the pigmentation pathway that alpha-MSH governs. Compared with the related Melanotan II, Melanotan I is studied as a more selective agonist focused on melanogenesis, which is the central reason it is examined in pigmentation and photoprotection research.
Studied mechanisms of action
In research models, Melanotan I is investigated for its agonism at the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on pigment-producing cells. Activation of this receptor is associated with the production of eumelanin, the pigment studied for its role in protecting skin tissue from ultraviolet damage. Because Melanotan I is studied as relatively selective for the MC1R pigmentation pathway, it is used as a research tool to probe melanogenesis with fewer of the broader melanocortin effects associated with less selective analogues. Its receptor selectivity and downstream signalling remain subjects of continued characterisation.
The state of the research
Melanotan I / afamelanotide has a more developed research and clinical history than many research peptides, having been investigated for specific photoprotection contexts in some regions under its afamelanotide designation. Within the research-compound community it remains an experimental tool, and outcomes are model-dependent. Researchers account for its melanocortin biology and pigmentation focus when interpreting results. All use described here is preclinical and for laboratory study.
Handling & storage for research
Supplied as a lyophilised powder. Store sealed vials cold and protected from light; reconstitute with bacteriostatic water for laboratory handling and keep the reconstituted solution refrigerated, using it within the appropriate window. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and vigorous agitation. Every Aura Labs batch ships with a third-party certificate of analysis confirming identity and purity above 99%.
Why researchers choose Aura Labs
Aura Labs supplies research peptides across Southeast Asia with third-party testing on every batch, a certificate of analysis available for each lot, and discreet, fast regional dispatch. Purity, accurate labelling and reproducible quality are the priorities researchers rely on for consistent results.
Disclaimer
This material is provided for laboratory and research use only. It is not a drug, supplement, cosmetic or food, and is not intended for human or animal consumption or for any diagnostic or therapeutic use. All information here is for educational purposes and describes preclinical research only.
