Melanotan I

Melanotan I, also known as afamelanotide in approved pharmaceutical contexts, is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone studied for melanocortin receptor activity and pigmentation biology. It primarily relates to MC1R signaling, melanin production, photoprotection research, and skin-response models. Researchers examine Melanotan I to understand how melanocortin pathways influence eumelanin production, UV response, and pigmentation regulation. Compared with Melanotan II, it is generally discussed as more selective toward pigmentation pathways. It is most relevant in dermatology, photobiology, melanocortin signaling, and skin pigmentation research.