Melanotan 2: Research Applications

Research Applications

Melanotan II research spans dermatology, sexual medicine, neuroendocrinology, oncology, and behavioral neuroscience across 7+ indication categories:

1. Skin Pigmentation & Photoprotection — MC1R stimulation → eumelanin synthesis → tanning without UV exposure; as few as 5 low doses induced visible tanning in Phase I trials.[1]
2. Sexual Dysfunction — 80% of men with psychogenic ED achieved clinically apparent erections (0.025 mg/kg SC); tip rigidity >80% for 38 min vs 3 min placebo (p=0.0045); enhanced proceptive behaviors in female rats.[3][9]
3. Metabolic Regulation & Obesity — Central MC3R/MC4R activation: intraabdominal fat -35% (low dose) to -55% (high dose); iBAT thermogenesis 3-fold increase; appetite suppression via NAcc.[6][10]
4. Autism & Social Behavior — Sociability index increased from 3.1 to 26.3 (p<0.0001) in MIA autism model mice; oxytocin-dependent NAcc activation in social contexts; partner preference facilitation in prairie voles.[11][7]
5. Neuroprotection & Nerve Regeneration — 20 µg/kg SC every 48h enhanced sensory function recovery in rat sciatic nerve crush model.[12]
6. Addiction Research — Synergistic augmentation of naltrexone to reduce binge-like ethanol intake in mice.[13]
7. Oncology — Topical MT-II suppressed melanoma tumor growth via MC1R → PTEN upregulation + COX-2/PGE2 inhibition; systemic use carries melanoma risk.[14]