MT-2 (Melanotan II) is a cyclic lactam analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Cyclisation constrains the molecule into a fixed conformation, conferring greater metabolic stability and potency than the linear parent hormone.
Non-selective by design, and that is the issue
MT-2 is an agonist at multiple melanocortin receptors — principally MC1R, MC3R and MC4R. It does not discriminate meaningfully between them, and each subtype does something different:
MC1R sits on melanocytes and drives eumelanin synthesis. MC3R and MC4R are largely central, involved in energy homeostasis, feeding behaviour and autonomic regulation. MC4R is additionally implicated in sexual response pathways.
So a single molecule engages pigmentary, metabolic, behavioural and autonomic systems simultaneously. That receptor promiscuity is precisely why selective melanocortin agonists became a serious drug-development target — the non-selective compound has effects across systems that cannot be separated by design.
Research context
Studied in pigmentation biology, energy homeostasis and melanocortin pharmacology. Any research use should account for the fact that observed effects may originate at any of several receptors, and attributing an outcome to one subtype requires selective antagonists or knockouts rather than inference.
Supplied lyophilised. See our reconstitution protocol for handling technique and diluent selection.
Every batch ships with a third-party certificate of analysis. View MT-2 and its current COA.
Research use only
Isla Longevity supplies this compound for laboratory research use only. It is not approved by the FDA for human or veterinary use and is not for human consumption. This article summarises published research and is not medical guidance.
