Melanotan I
Also known as MT-1, Afamelanotide, NDP-alpha-MSH
A synthetic alpha-MSH analog best known through afamelanotide, a melanocortin-1 receptor agonist approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria under regulated use.
Overview
Melanotan I is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. The regulated pharmaceutical lineage is afamelanotide, a melanocortin-1 receptor agonist used for a narrow photoprotection-related indication.
The Science
Melanotan I is more MC1R-focused than Melanotan II, which is why the two should not be treated as interchangeable.
- MC1R signaling - stimulates melanogenesis in skin melanocytes.
- Photoprotection biology - studied in conditions where light exposure causes severe symptoms.
- Pigmentation research - useful for understanding melanocortin receptor selectivity.
Evidence Snapshot
The strongest evidence belongs to regulated afamelanotide use, not grey-market tanning products. Research interpretation should separate approved implant products from nonstandard vial formulations.
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