MT-1
Melanotan I / Afamelanotide
Selective melanocortin agonist for pigmentation and photoprotection
How it works
MT-1 is a potent, selective agonist of the MC1R receptor on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin synthesis. Unlike MT-2 it is selective for pigmentation pathways and lacks the broad melanocortin activity that drives MT-2's other effects.
What the research explores
In published research, MT-1 has been studied in connection with the following. These describe findings reported in the literature — not approved uses, claims, or outcomes to expect.
- Stimulates eumelanin (skin pigmentation)
- Studied for UV photoprotection
- Approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)
- More selective than MT-2
- Researched for light-sensitivity conditions
As afamelanotide (Scenesse), MT-1 is an approved therapy that increases pain-free light exposure in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare photosensitivity disorder.
Adverse events & gaps
Approved formulation has an established profile. Pigment changes and nausea most commonly reported. Skin monitoring advised in research.
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