Melanotan I
Afamelanotide — The Linear Melanocortin Photoprotective Peptide
Molecular Data
- Formula
- C77H109N21O19
- Molecular Weight
- 1646.85 g/mol
- Sequence
- Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Va…
01
Overview
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide, Scenesse) is a linear synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that preferentially activates MC1R to stimulate melanogenesis. Unlike the cyclic Melanotan II, it is more selective for the melanogenesis pathway with minimal effects on libido or appetite. It is approved in Europe for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a severe light-sensitivity disorder.
02
Mechanism of Action
Afamelanotide binds MC1R on melanocytes with higher affinity than native α-MSH, activating the cAMP/PKA pathway and upregulating tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin synthesis. Increased eumelanin provides photoprotection by absorbing and scattering UV radiation, reducing DNA damage in skin cells.
03
Research Highlights
Phase III trials in EPP patients demonstrate significant reduction in phototoxic reactions and improved quality of life
European Medicines Agency approval (Scenesse) confirms efficacy in severe phototoxicity
Comparative receptor selectivity studies show preferential MC1R activity versus MT-II broader profile
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Subcutaneous (SC) injection into abdominal or gluteal subcutaneous tissue, typically daily during loading. Research protocols titrate dose to assess tolerability and pigmentation response.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
2–4 week loading, then maintenance; implant formulation on 2-month cycle.
05
Reconstitution
Solvent
Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Volume
2 mL added to a 10 mg vial
Concentration
5 mg/mL
Storage
Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; protect from light. Discard 30 days after reconstitution.
Notes
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is more selective than MT-II (minimal libido effects). Scenesse® is a controlled-release implant, not injectable.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
Melanotan I is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
Related Compounds
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Melanotan I — Common Research Questions
What is Melanotan I?
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide, Scenesse) is a linear synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that preferentially activates MC1R to stimulate melanogenesis. Unlike the cyclic Me... Melanotan I belongs to the Other research category and is studied for its afamelanotide — the linear melanocortin photoprotective peptide.
How does Melanotan I work?
Afamelanotide binds MC1R on melanocytes with higher affinity than native α-MSH, activating the cAMP/PKA pathway and upregulating tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin synthesis. Increased eumelanin provides photoprotection by absorbing and scattering UV radiation, reducing DNA damage in skin cells.
What are the key research benefits of Melanotan I?
MC1R-selective melanogenesis stimulation. Approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria in EU and Australia. Photoprotection against UV-induced DNA damage. Eumelanin (protective melanin) production. Lower off-target effects than Melanotan II. Implant delivery system with sustained release.
What is the molecular structure of Melanotan I?
Melanotan I has the molecular formula C77H109N21O19 and a molecular weight of 1646.85 g/mol. Its amino acid sequence is Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2. This structural information is important for researchers studying receptor binding and pharmacokinetics.
What does the research say about Melanotan I?
Phase III trials in EPP patients demonstrate significant reduction in phototoxic reactions and improved quality of life European Medicines Agency approval (Scenesse) confirms efficacy in severe phototoxicity Comparative receptor selectivity studies show preferential MC1R activity versus MT-II broader profile These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. Melanotan I is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is Melanotan I FDA approved?
Afamelanotide (Melanotan I) is approved in Europe and Australia under the brand name Scenesse® for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It is not FDA-approved in the United States.
What category does Melanotan I belong to?
Melanotan I belongs to the Other category, which focuses on a collection of specialized peptides studied across various physiological domains including reproductive health, pigmentation, and growth factor signaling. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Other pillar page.
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Scientific References
Phase III trials in EPP patients demonstrate significant reduction in phototoxic reactions and improved quality of life
European Medicines Agency approval (Scenesse) confirms efficacy in severe phototoxicity
Comparative receptor selectivity studies show preferential MC1R activity versus MT-II broader profile