Scientific Reference
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)
Evidence profile: Human Phase 3 evidence
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that selectively activates melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) to stimulate melanin production. It is clinically available as an implant (SCENESSE®) for specific medical indications, while research-grade injectable forms are studied for pigmentation and photoprotective effects. Subcutaneous administration enables rapid systemic exposure, leading to increased melanin synthesis and enhanced tanning response. Unlike Melanotan II, it is more selective for MC1R, reducing off-target melanocortin effects.
Published Research
Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
Langendonk JG et al. · The New England journal of medicine · 2015 · Clinical
PMID 26132941 — View on PubMedEvaluation of the immunogenicity of the synthetic α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) analogue afamelanotide ([Nle4-D-Phe7]-α-MSH, Scenesse®) in erythropoietic protoporphyria patients by ELISA detecting both anti-afamelanotide and anti-α-MSH antibodies
Lengweiler S et al. · Skin pharmacology and physiology · 2015 · Clinical
PMID 25402764 — View on PubMedBeneficial effects of the melanocortin analogue Nle4-D-Phe7-α-MSH in acne vulgaris
Böhm M et al. · Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV · 2014 · Clinical
PMID 22845050 — View on PubMedEfficacy of the melanocortin analogue Nle4-D-Phe7-α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in the treatment of patients with Hailey-Hailey disease
Biolcati G et al. · Clinical and experimental dermatology · 2014 · Clinical
PMID 24256215 — View on PubMed[Nle4-D-Phe7]-alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone significantly increased pigmentation and decreased UV damage in fair-skinned Caucasian volunteers
Barnetson RS et al. · The Journal of investigative dermatology · 2006 · Clinical
PMID 16763547 — View on PubMed