Melanotan 2 (MT-2)

Melanotan 2 (MT-2) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that activates melanocortin receptors, most notably MC1R, driving the cAMP and CREB signaling that controls melanocyte pigment production.

Early University of Arizona trials found it increased skin pigmentation in volunteers, and its activity at other melanocortin receptors later led researchers to develop the related compound bremelanotide for studies on melanocortin signaling.

This broad receptor activity continues to drive research into melanogenesis and melanocortin pathways.