Melanotan I
Overview
Melanotan I (also known as Afamelanotide) is a synthetic research peptide that acts as an analog of the naturally occurring alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is primarily studied in laboratory environments for its potential to stimulate melanogenesis, increasing skin pigmentation in preclinical models such as laboratory rodents. Melanotan I is known for its high selectivity and longer-lasting effect on melanin production compared to other analogs.
Benefits
Preclinical research indicates that Melanotan I may promote increased melanin synthesis, resulting in darker skin pigmentation and enhanced UV protection in test subjects. Researchers have explored its use for investigating pathways related to photoprotection and pigmentation disorders. Its selective action makes it a valuable compound for focused melanogenesis studies.
Source: Leachman SA, et al. Clinical efficacy and safety of Afamelanotide in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. New England Journal of Medicine, 2009. Link
Possible Side Effects
In laboratory studies, test subjects administered Melanotan I have shown mild side effects such as injection site irritation, temporary flushing, mild nausea-like responses, or darkening of existing moles. Effects vary based on dosage, frequency, and species used.
Source: Leachman SA, et al., NEJM, 2009. Link
Dosage & Administration
Melanotan I is typically administered via subcutaneous injection following approved laboratory research protocols. Typical research dosages range from 0.5 mg to 2 mg per injection, with frequency varying from daily to a few times per week depending on the study design, test species, and desired outcomes.
For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption.
Summary
Melanotan I is a synthetic α-MSH analog peptide designed exclusively for research focused on stimulating melanin production and exploring UV protection pathways in preclinical models. Studies suggest it may enhance skin pigmentation and photoprotection, with mild side effects such as flushing or mole darkening occasionally observed in test subjects. Melanotan I is administered by subcutaneous injection, with dosage and frequency tailored to the research design and species.
Strictly for research purposes only. Not for human use.