How does alpha-MSH relate to melanotan peptides?

Melanotan compounds are synthetic, more stable analogs of alpha-MSH designed to activate melanocortin receptors for longer, since the native peptide is degraded within minutes.

Does alpha-MSH affect more than pigmentation?

Yes. Through different melanocortin receptors it also influences appetite via MC4R and modulates inflammation, in addition to its MC1R-driven role in melanin synthesis.

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Tanning & Skin

Research Chemical

A-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (A-MSH)

Also known as: A-MSH, Alpha-MSH, Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone

Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) is an endogenous tridecapeptide derived from proopiomelanocortin that regulates skin pigmentation. It is the natural peptide behind melanocortin-driven tanning and also influences appetite and inflammation.

Mechanism of Action

Alpha-MSH is cleaved from the proopiomelanocortin (POMC) precursor and acts as an agonist at melanocortin receptors, most notably MC1R on melanocytes. MC1R activation raises intracellular cAMP, driving microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) expression and upregulating tyrosinase, which increases eumelanin synthesis and skin darkening. Through MC4R in the hypothalamus it also reduces food intake, and via MC1R on immune cells it exerts anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing NF-kB signaling. Its natural form is short-lived, which is why synthetic analogs such as melanotan compounds were developed for sustained activity.

Half-life: Very short for the native peptide, on the order of minutes due to rapid degradation
Administration Routes: subcutaneous
Research Status: Research Chemical