A stabilized α-MSH analog at the center of melanocortin and pigmentation research.
Also known as: Afamelanotide · NDP-MSH · [Nle4,D-Phe7]-α-MSH · Scenesse
Part of the Cosmetic & skin peptides cluster
Overview
Melanotan-1 (afamelanotide) is a synthetic tridecapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that acts on the melanocortin-1 receptor. As afamelanotide (Scenesse) it is approved in some regions for a rare photosensitivity condition. It is not authorized as a tanning product in Canada.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Synthetic tridecapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone
Primary research or clinical context: Approved as afamelanotide for a rare photosensitivity disorder in some regions; not a tanning drug in Canada
Structure and stability
Melanotan-1 corresponds to [Nle4,D-Phe7]-α-MSH (NDP-MSH). Substituting norleucine and a D-phenylalanine into the natural α-MSH sequence greatly increases metabolic stability and receptor potency, which is why the analog was developed for research and, later, a specific clinical indication.
Melanocortin signaling
By agonizing the melanocortin-1 receptor on melanocytes, the peptide is studied for its influence on eumelanin synthesis. Afamelanotide is approved in some jurisdictions for erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare light-sensitivity disorder — a narrow authorized use distinct from cosmetic tanning claims.
Melanotan-1 vs Melanotan-2
A common search is melanotan-1 versus melanotan-2. They are chemically different melanocortin agonists with different receptor profiles; melanotan-2 is a smaller cyclic analog. This page compares chemistry only and does not endorse unapproved self-administration of either compound.
FAQ about Melanotan-1
What is Melanotan-1?+
Melanotan-1 (afamelanotide) is a synthetic tridecapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that acts on the melanocortin-1 receptor. As afamelanotide (Scenesse) it is approved in some regions for a rare photosensitivity condition. It is not authorized as a tanning product in Canada.
Is Melanotan-1 an approved medicine?+
Melanotan-1: Approved as afamelanotide for a rare photosensitivity disorder in some regions; not a tanning drug in Canada. Always follow licensed medical guidance for approved products.
What is the typical length of Melanotan-1?+
Melanotan-1 is commonly described as approximately 13 amino acids (Synthetic α-MSH analog (melanocortin agonist)).