Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that stimulates melanogenesis (melanin production) in the skin. The peptide is a linear 13-amino acid sequence designed to have greater potency and longer duration than natural α-MSH. Melanotan I binds primarily to the MC1R (melanocortin 1 receptor) on melanocytes, promoting the production of eumelanin (brown/black pigment) rather than pheomelanin (red/yellow pigment). Under the trade name Scenesse, afamelanotide is approved in Europe for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a painful sun sensitivity disorder. It provides photoprotection by increasing melanin independent of UV exposure.
Key Data
Mechanism of Action
Selective MC1R agonist that stimulates melanin production without significant effects on other melanocortin receptors.
Reported Benefits
All information is presented for Research Use Only (RUO). Not medical advice.