Endocrine and hormonal research
Melanotan I
Also known as Afamelanotide, NDP-MSH, Melanotan-1
A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone, studied for its effect on melanin production.
What it is
Melanotan I is a structural analogue of alpha-MSH, the hormone that signals pigment-producing cells. It is more selective for the melanocortin-1 receptor than Melanotan II, which acts across several melanocortin receptors — the reason the two are studied separately rather than treated as versions of one compound.
What published research examines
- Melanocortin-1 receptor binding and selectivity
- Melanogenesis in pigment cell culture
- Photoprotection research in light-sensitivity populations
- Receptor selectivity compared with Melanotan II
Where the research stands
Melanotan I has been studied in human trials for specific light-sensitivity conditions. That research is specific in scope and does not extend to the wider uses the compound is often associated with.