Melanotan (MT)-II, a synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist, is an analogue of the peptide hormone α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).

Melanotan-II (MT-II) acts as a powerful, non-selective agonist targeting melanocortin receptors (MC1, MC3, MC4, and MC5), which play crucial roles in various physiological systems including pigmentation, energy balance, sexual health, immune response, inflammation, and cardiovascular function[1].

Melanotan (MT)-II functions as a potent inducer of penile erection, demonstrating dose-dependent activity. It reduces the time until the first erectile event and enhances erectile responses following cavernous nerve stimulation. Research indicates that at a dosage of 1 mg/kg intravenously, MT-II facilitates erection by increasing the erectile response. Additionally, MT-II has been shown to possess neuroprotective qualities and promote peripheral nerve regeneration, particularly highlighted by its significant enhancement of sensory function recovery in rats after sciatic nerve damage when administered at 20 μg/kg every 48 hours subcutaneously. In cases of erectile dysfunction in men, MT-II has proven to be an effective initiator of penile erection. Beyond its effects on erectile and sensory functions, MT-II also impacts metabolic parameters, notably reducing food intake and body weight, while inducing thermogenic responses in mouse models.