What it is
Melanotan I, generic name afamelanotide, is a linear synthetic analogue of α-MSH with a single amino-acid substitution that makes it far more potent and stable than the natural hormone. It is clinically approved in the EU and US for erythropoietic protoporphyria.
Mechanism
Selective agonist at MC1R on melanocytes: increases eumelanin production and DNA-repair capacity after UV exposure. Because it is MC1R-selective, it lacks the appetite and sexual-function effects of Melanotan II.
Research areas
- Photoprotection and melanogenesis
- MC1R pharmacology
- UV-induced DNA damage
- Photodermatoses
Safety and metabolism
Clinical data: nausea, headache and pigmentation of existing naevi are the most reported findings. Half-life ≈ 30 min.
