Synthetic analog · 13 amino acids · 1,646.9 Da

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) studies and research data

PepBank has 218 Melanotan 1 studies with results. 160 of them gave Melanotan 1, with 667 results, grouped by what the studies measured. In each group, results from studies in people come first. Data as of 2026-10-30.

Searches 667 results and 498 papers. Newer studies from Europe PMC

Results in people

142

21% of 667 results

Results in animals

262

39% of 667 results

Results in lab cells

262

39% of 667 results

From computer models

under 1% of 667 results

The molecule

Melanotan 1 identity

Identifiers, parent molecule, targets and development stage, from curated data.

Afamelanotide ([Nle4,D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH, NDP-alpha-MSH, Melanotan I, CUV1647) is a synthetic, linear analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH, 13 residues). Two substitutions change the parent: norleucine for methionine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine for phenylalanine at position 7. The termini stay capped (N-acetyl, C-terminal amide), as in alpha-MSH. In cell assays it is a potent agonist at MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R (ChEMBL EC50 rows from one 1997 J Med Chem paper (PMID 9216831): 0.19, 4.1, 0.72 and 0.58 nM; values differ between papers). The FDA label calls it an MC1R agonist. A 1997 study in three male volunteers gave it by three routes. Subcutaneous dosing was fully bioavailable, oral dosing gave no detectable level, the plasma half-life after subcutaneous dosing was 0.8 to 1.7 h (beta phase), and tanning appeared (PMID 9113347). The approved product is a 16 mg controlled-release subcutaneous implant, inserted by a trained health care professional about every 2 months. Two placebo-controlled trials in EPP (74 patients in the EU and 94 in the US; 16 mg implant or placebo every 60 days) supported approval (PMID 26132941). In the US trial the median pain-free time in direct sunlight after 6 months was 69.4 h with afamelanotide and 40.8 h with placebo (P=0.04). The EU authorisation (22 December 2014) was given under exceptional circumstances. The US approval followed on 2019-10-08 (NDA210797). Australia (ARTG 327947, registered 2020-11-18) and Canada (DIN 02569825) also list the product, and NICE states that it has a UK marketing authorisation under exceptional circumstances. The FDA label warns that it can darken pre-existing nevi and ephelides and recommends a full body skin examination twice a year. Unapproved powder sold online as 'Melanotan I' is not the implant, and the drug is not approved for tanning. Melanotan II is a different, cyclic peptide (see record melanotan-ii). Other studies by Clinuvel cover vitiligo (a phase 3 study, NCT06109649, is active, not recruiting), xeroderma pigmentosum, variegate porphyria and stroke.

Kind: Synthetic analog · 13 residues
Identifiers: UniProtP01189 (opens in a new tab)ChEMBLCHEMBL441738 (opens in a new tab)CHEMBL4297213 (opens in a new tab)PubChem CID16154396 (opens in a new tab)133083079 (opens in a new tab)UNIIQW68W3J66U (opens in a new tab)1XCC161YKC (opens in a new tab)DrugBankDB04931 (opens in a new tab)CAS75921-69-61566590-77-9PDB7F4F (opens in a new tab)7F4H (opens in a new tab)7F54 (opens in a new tab)7PIV (opens in a new tab)KEGGD10511 (opens in a new tab)D11334 (opens in a new tab)IUPHAR1324 (opens in a new tab)
Parent: Analog of Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) · residues 138-150GSRS names: '[Nle4,D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH' and 'ACETYL(4-(2S)-2-AMINOHEXANOIC ACID,7-D-PHENYLALANINE)HUMAN MELANOTROPIN ALPHA'. The seed record alpha-msh has the 13-residue sequence SYSMEHFRWGKPV; afamelanotide differs at positions 4 and 7 only. UniProt P01189 PRO_0000024970 'Melanocyte-stimulating hormone alpha' is 138-150.
Development: Approved in the US and EU (Scenesse, 2014)Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Ltd (Clinuvel Europe Limited; Clinuvel, Inc.)Approved for EPP: EU 2014-12-22, US 2019-10-08, Australia 2020-11-18 (ARTG). ClinicalTrials.gov lists 23 studies for the query (all sponsored by Clinuvel entities, all afamelanotide). EPP studies: phase 3 NCT00979745, NCT01605136, NCT04053270 and NCT04578496; phase 2 NCT01097044; phase 1/2 PK study NCT06388642 (2024). The two placebo-controlled trials in PMID 26132941 (EU and US) are listed in its abstract as NCT01605136 and NCT00979745. Vitiligo: NCT06109649 (phase 3, Scenesse plus NB-UVB vs NB-UVB alone, active not recruiting, started 2023-10-11), NCT05210582 (phase 2, status unknown), NCT01382589, NCT04525157. Xeroderma pigmentosum phase 2: NCT05159752, NCT05370235 (status unknown). Variegate porphyria phase 2: NCT05854784 (completed). Acute ischaemic stroke phase 2: NCT04962503 (completed). Also polymorphic light eruption, solar urticaria, acne, actinic keratoses and DNA repair studies. None of the 23 ClinicalTrials.gov studies is a cosmetic tanning study. One 1997 study in three healthy men (PMID 9113347) measured tanning after injection of the peptide, and NCT03634137 is a pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers. Source (opens in a new tab)

Targets

Molecular targets with action and evidence source
Target	Action	Evidence
Melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptor (melanocortin 1 receptor)MC1RQ01726 (opens in a new tab)	Agonist	approved-drug labelSource (opens in a new tab)
Melanocortin receptor 3MC3RP41968 (opens in a new tab)	Agonist	primary literatureSource (opens in a new tab)
Melanocortin receptor 4MC4RP32245 (opens in a new tab)	Agonist	primary literatureSource (opens in a new tab)
Melanocortin receptor 5MC5RP33032 (opens in a new tab)	Agonist	primary literatureSource (opens in a new tab)

Sequence and structure

Residues, differences from the parent, calculated properties and 3D structure. Source values and calculated values are shown separately.

Sequence

13 amino acids · 4 modifications

SYSEHRWG

KPV

Alignment to Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH)

Calculated from the two sequences. Curated notes are shown as given.

11 of 13 aligned residues identical (85%) · 2 non-canonical residues · 2 modified residues · Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) 1–13

Top row: Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) (parent)
Bottom row: Melanotan I (afamelanotide)

YSEHRWG

Same as parent
Substituted
Non-canonical or D-form
Added
Gap
Modified side chain or end

Differences from the parent

1Parent 1 · analog 1Ser, modified · N-terminal acetylN-acetylserine, as in alpha-MSH.
2Parent 4 · analog 4Met → Nle · Non-canonical residuealpha-MSH numbering; norleucine replaces methionine. L-norleucine (2-aminohexanoic acid) replaces Met4 of alpha-MSH. Written X in the one-letter sequence.
3Parent 7 · analog 7Phe → D-Phe · D-amino acidalpha-MSH numbering; D configuration. D-phenylalanine replaces L-Phe7 of alpha-MSH. Written F in the one-letter sequence; the D configuration is recorded here.
4Parent 13 · analog 13Val, modified · C-terminal amideValine amide, as in alpha-MSH.

Basis: GSRS names: '[Nle4,D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH' and 'ACETYL(4-(2S)-2-AMINOHEXANOIC ACID,7-D-PHENYLALANINE)HUMAN MELANOTROPIN ALPHA'. The seed record alpha-msh has the 13-residue sequence SYSMEHFRWGKPV; afamelanotide differs at positions 4 and 7 only. UniProt P01189 PRO_0000024970 'Melanocyte-stimulating hormone alpha' is 138-150.

Calculated from the two sequences with @pepdb/chem alignToParent (ungapped unless a gap scores higher). The record’s curated notes are shown as given.

Properties

From identity sources

Formula: C₇₈H₁₁₁N₂₁O₁₉
Molecular weight: 1,646.87 g/mol
Monoisotopic mass: 1,645.8365 Da

GSRS UNII QW68W3J66U(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-13
GSRS UNII 1XCC161YKC(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-13
PubChem CID 16154396(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-13
ChEMBL CHEMBL441738(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-13
ChEMBL CHEMBL4297213(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-13
fda label NDA210797(opens in a new tab)retrieved 2026-10-13

Calculated from the sequence

pKa set

Some values cannot be calculated. The sequence has a non-canonical residue (X). Residue tables cover only the 20 standard amino acids.

Average mass: Not calculated
Monoisotopic mass: Not calculated
Isoelectric point (pI): Not calculated
Net charge at pH 7.4: Not calculated
GRAVY (hydropathy): Not calculated
Extinction coefficient, 280 nm (Cys reduced): 6,990 M⁻¹ cm⁻¹; 5500 x Trp + 1490 x Tyr · Pace et al. 1995 (ExPASy ProtParam)
Instability index: Not calculated
Aliphatic index: Not calculated
Boman index: Not calculated
Hydrophobic moment (μH): Not calculated

1 non-canonical residue (X) is not included in calculated values.
D-amino acids have the same mass and charge as L forms. Hydrophobicity scales were measured on L forms.
Defined and validated for proteins; use with care for short peptides.
Assumes an ideal alpha helix. Many short peptides are not helical.

@pepdb/chem 0.2.0 · EMBOSS pKa set · ExPASy residue masses

Net charge by pH

No charge curve

The sequence has a non-canonical residue (X). Residue tables cover only the 20 standard amino acids.

Composition

Hydrophobic8% (1)V
Aromatic23% (3)F W Y
Positive23% (3)H K R
Negative8% (1)E
Polar15% (2)S
Special15% (2)G P
Non-canonical8% (1)X

13 residues. Each residue counts in one class; F and W count as aromatic.

A Ala0 · 0%

I Ile0 · 0%

L Leu0 · 0%

M Met0 · 0%

V Val1 · 8%

F Phe1 · 8%

W Trp1 · 8%

Y Tyr1 · 8%

H His1 · 8%

K Lys1 · 8%

R Arg1 · 8%

D Asp0 · 0%

E Glu1 · 8%

N Asn0 · 0%

Q Gln0 · 0%

S Ser2 · 15%

T Thr0 · 0%

C Cys0 · 0%

G Gly1 · 8%

P Pro1 · 8%

X Xaa1 · 8%

3D structure

ExperimentalPDB 7F4F

Loads the 3D viewer (3Dmol.js, about 150 KB) and the model file from RCSB PDB.

2D structure

Draws the structure in your browser with RDKit (about 2.3 MB, loaded once).

SMILES fromPubChem CID 16154396(opens in a new tab)

CCCC[C@@H](C(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC1=CNC=N1)C(=O)N[C@H](CC2=CC=CC=C2)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC3=CNC4=CC=CC=C43)C(=O)NCC(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)N5CCC[C@H]5C(=O)N[C@@H](C(C)C)C(=O)N)NC(=O)[C@H](CO)NC(=O)[C@H](CC6=CC=C(C=C6)O)NC(=O)[C@H](CO)NC(=O)C

Helical wheel

An ideal alpha-helix projection. It shows where the hydrophobic residues fall if the peptide folds as a helix. It does not show that it does.

μH, residues shown: 0.423
μH, best 11-residue window: —
Arrow direction: 148°
Residues: 13 · 1 X not scored

HydrophilicHydrophobic

Eisenberg consensus (normalized) scale · + K, R · − D, E

Assumes an ideal α-helix: 100° per residue, 3.6 residues per turn. The arrow is the mean hydrophobic moment (Eisenberg et al. 1984) and points at the hydrophobic face.

Show as table

Position	Residue	Angle	Eisenberg consensus (normalized)
1	S	0°	-0.18
2	Y	100°	0.26
3	S	200°	-0.18
4	X	300°	not scored
5	E	40°	-0.74
6	H	140°	-0.40
7	F	240°	1.19
8	R	340°	-2.53
9	W	80°	0.81
10	G	180°	0.48
11	K	280°	-1.50
12	P	20°	0.12
13	V	120°	1.08

Results by area

Melanotan 1 results by year and outcome

Counts are exact and come from studies that gave the peptide.

Studies by year

218 of 498 studies have results (44%), published 1987 to 2026. Top row: every study. Bottom row: studies with results about Melanotan I (afamelanotide), by class. The rows use different scales.

Studies
Human
Animal
Lab
Computer model
Natural levels, tool or combination only

Studies498 in all, 1980 to 2026

Studies with results218 in all, 1987 to 2026

Retracted studies are left out. A study with results in two classes counts in both.

AI wrote and checked these results. AI can make mistakes, so check important results against the source.

What the studies measured

People first in each area, then animals, then lab cells. Counts are exact and come from studies that gave the peptide.

Melanotan 1 studies on skin, hair and wounds

81 results · people 60 · animals 3 · lab 18

Top 5 of 81 results

Adding MT-1 to sun exposure gave stronger tanning of the back than sunlight alone.Archives of dermatology, 2004
In Caucasian adults, MELANOTAN raised skin melanin more than placebo.Peptides, 2006
In US patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, afamelanotide gave more pain-free time in the sun than placebo.The New England journal of medicine, 2015
In a review of studies in people with EPP or XLP, trials showed a moderate positive effect of the afamelanotide implant on light sensitivity.Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie, 2023
In adults with vitiligo, adding afamelanotide to light therapy gave a better response than light therapy alone at day 56.JAMA dermatology, 2015

Melanotan 1 studies on side effects

29 results · people 24 · animals 5 · lab 0

Top 5 of 29 results

In three people with acne, afamelanotide caused no side effects except mild, short-lived tiredness in one person.Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2014
In patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, side effects of afamelanotide were mostly mild.The New England journal of medicine, 2015
Nausea was reported in the group that received afamelanotide with light therapy.JAMA dermatology, 2015
In 6 stroke patients given afamelanotide, no other local or major body-wide side effects were recorded.BMC neurology, 2023
Minor infections were reported in the group that received afamelanotide with light therapy.JAMA dermatology, 2015

Melanotan 1 studies on daily life and fitness

20 results · people 19 · animals 1 · lab 0

Top 5 of 20 results

In patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, quality of life improved with afamelanotide in both trials.The New England journal of medicine, 2015
In adults with EPP, the employment rate was higher on afamelanotide, but the change was not statistically significant.The Journal of dermatology, 2023
In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, time spent outside rose by 6.1 hours per week compared with before afamelanotide.JAMA dermatology, 2020
In mice with a Parkinson's-like model, NDP-MSH improved pole test performance compared with vehicle.Journal of neuroimmune pharmacology, 2023
In three people with mild-to-moderate facial acne, quality of life scores improved after afamelanotide, with no control group.Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2014

Melanotan 1 studies on metabolism and nutrition

10 results · people 7 · animals 3 · lab 0

Top 5 of 10 results

In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, protoporphyrin levels were lower during afamelanotide treatment than before it.Therapeutic advances in rare disease, 2021
In rats, NDP-MSH injected into a brain area gave a higher core temperature than saline.Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior, 1993
In people with protoporphyria, afamelanotide did not lower red blood cell protoporphyrin.Life, 2024
In rats, NDP-MSH injected into a brain area changed core body temperature depending on the dose.Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior, 1993
In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, those with higher starting values showed a larger drop in protoporphyrin and a liver test during afamelanotide treatment.Therapeutic advances in rare disease, 2021

Melanotan 1 studies on blood levels and clearance

10 results · people 6 · animals 3 · lab 1

Top 3 of 10 results

In three men, melanotan I given under the skin reached the blood fully, compared with an injection into a vein.Biopharmaceutics & drug disposition, 1997
In three men, no melanotan I could be detected in the blood after taking it by mouth.Biopharmaceutics & drug disposition, 1997
After melanotan I under the skin, the absorption half-life in blood ranged from 0.07 to 0.79 hours.Biopharmaceutics & drug disposition, 1997

Melanotan 1 studies on pain

7 results · people 5 · animals 2 · lab 0

Top 5 of 7 results

In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, reactions to light were less painful during afamelanotide treatment.JAMA dermatology, 2020
In rats, a small dose of NDP-MSH weakened the pain-blocking effect of morphine.Brain research, 2007
In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, the pain of the worst light reaction fell from 10 to 6 on a 0 to 10 scale with afamelanotide.Orphanet journal of rare diseases, 2020
In rats, NDP-MSH and morphine worked against each other in the tail flick test.Brain research, 2007
In people with EPP, afamelanotide was linked to 6.5% fewer painful moments in the morning.Molecular genetics and metabolism, 2022

Melanotan 1 studies on liver

5 results · people 5 · animals 0 · lab 0

Top 3 of 5 results

In people with EPP, PPIX levels were higher the longer ago the last afamelanotide implant was given.Life, 2023
In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a liver blood test (aspartate aminotransferase) was lower during afamelanotide treatment than before it.Therapeutic advances in rare disease, 2021
In people with protoporphyria, afamelanotide did not improve liver blood tests.Life, 2024

Melanotan 1 studies on use, access and costs

5 results · people 5 · animals 0 · lab 0

5 results

In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, nearly all (98%) kept using afamelanotide during about 2 years of follow-up.JAMA dermatology, 2020
By June 2014, about two thirds of known patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria at two centres were treated with afamelanotide implants.The British journal of dermatology, 2015
In German adults with EPP, 91.0% of those who started afamelanotide kept taking it.Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine, 2025
In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, 23% stopped afamelanotide, mostly for reasons such as pregnancy or cost.The British journal of dermatology, 2015
In people with erythropoietic protoporphyria, 97.4% of planned afamelanotide treatment was taken.Orphanet journal of rare diseases, 2020

Melanotan 1 studies on immune system and inflammation

79 results · people 3 · animals 54 · lab 22

Top 5 of 79 results

In patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria treated with afamelanotide for up to 6 years, most showed no antibody reaction to the drug.Skin pharmacology and physiology, 2015
In monkeys, NDP-MSH lowered the TNF-alpha inflammation response to endotoxin compared with saline.Endocrinology, 2006
In rats with a heart attack model, NDP-alpha-MSH lowered TNF-alpha in the heart more than saline.European journal of pharmacology, 2010
In mice with a brain bleed, NDP-MSH reduced the number of microglia around the bleed.Journal of neuroinflammation, 2019
In rat lungs perfused outside the body, NDP-MSH reduced inflammatory mediators in the perfusate in both injury groups.Peptides, 2021

Melanotan 1 studies on hormones

8 results · people 3 · animals 4 · lab 1

Top 5 of 8 results

In adults with EPP, afamelanotide alone did not raise vitamin D levels compared with no treatment.The British journal of dermatology, 2024
In monkeys, NDP-MSH lowered the ACTH stress hormone response to endotoxin compared with saline.Endocrinology, 2006
In male rats, NDP-MSH injected into the brain raised blood ACTH levels compared with saline.Neuroendocrinology, 2002
In adults with EPP treated with afamelanotide, most patients still had low vitamin D.The British journal of dermatology, 2024
In monkeys, NDP-MSH lowered the cortisol response to endotoxin compared with saline.Endocrinology, 2006

Melanotan 1 studies on brain and nerves

58 results · people 2 · animals 34 · lab 22

Top 5 of 58 results

In stroke patients who survived after afamelanotide, the median stroke severity score improved from 6 to 2 by day 7.BMC neurology, 2023
In rat brain tissue samples, NDP-MSH increased the release of neuropeptide Y.Journal of neuroendocrinology, 2002
In stroke patients given afamelanotide, median affected brain volume fell from 23 mL to 10 mL on day 3, then 4 mL.BMC neurology, 2023
In lab tests on rat brain slices, NDP-MSH did not change norepinephrine release.Neuropeptides, 1995
In mice with a brain bleed, NDP-MSH improved neurological function.Journal of neuroinflammation, 2019

Melanotan 1 studies on survival and serious illness

7 results · people 1 · animals 6 · lab 0

Top 4 of 7 results

In 6 stroke patients given afamelanotide, one died of a new stroke on day 9. The study judged this unrelated to the drug.BMC neurology, 2023
In rats after part of the liver was removed, NDP-MSH changed the activity of many genes, including some for chemokines.Peptides, 2013
In rats after part of the liver was removed, NDP-MSH strengthened the IL-6 signaling pathway.Peptides, 2013
In rats after part of the liver was removed, NDP-MSH reduced the drop in IκBα protein caused by the surgery.Peptides, 2013

Melanotan 1 studies on bones and joints

2 results · people 1 · animals 1 · lab 0

2 results

In adults with EPP, bone density did not improve with afamelanotide.The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 2025
In mice with lupus-like disease, NDP-MSH reduced joint inflammation scores.Clinical and experimental immunology, 2014

Melanotan 1 studies on sleep

1 result · people 1 · animals 0 · lab 0

1 result

Bedtime was 23:45 in EPP patients off treatment, 23:02 in healthy controls and 23:14 in EPP patients on afamelanotide.Molecular genetics and metabolism, 2022

Melanotan 1 studies on receptors and cell signals

231 results · people 0 · animals 52 · lab 178 · computer models 1

Top 5 of 231 results

In mice with a brain bleed, NDP-MSH raised the protective signal p-CREB.Journal of neuroinflammation, 2019
In rats with heart grafts, NDP-alpha-MSH raised the activity of genes for cell structure proteins.Journal of immunology, 2005
In mice with bleeding in the brain, NDP-MSH raised the amount of the Mc1r receptor.Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2020
In rats, NDP-MSH infused into the brain raised c-Fos messenger RNA in the hypothalamus.Endocrine, 2010
In male mice, NDP-MSH injected into the belly cavity significantly raised Nur77 gene activity in fat tissue.Molecular endocrinology, 2011

Melanotan 1 studies on weight and appetite

28 results · people 0 · animals 28 · lab 0

Top 5 of 28 results

In pigs, NDP-MSH given into the brain reduced food intake over 24 hours in all animals.Physiological genomics, 2010
In male rats, NDP-MSH infused into the brain significantly reduced weight gain throughout the study.Endocrinology, 2012
In rhesus macaques, NDP-MSH infused into the brain did not change behaviors other than feeding.Endocrinology, 2001
In rats, NDP-MSH given into one brain area cut food intake by about half.Diabetes, 2000
In mice, NDP-MSH did not affect weight gain.Investigational new drugs, 1988

Melanotan 1 studies on kidneys and bladder

21 results · people 0 · animals 16 · lab 5

Top 3 of 21 results

In mice with lupus-like disease, NDP-MSH reduced the number of cells in the kidney filters.Clinical and experimental immunology, 2014
In mice with kidney injury from Adriamycin, NDP-MSH reduced protein loss in the urine.Clinical science, 2020
In mice with induced kidney inflammation, NDP-MSH reduced the kidney damage.Kidney international, 2023

Melanotan 1 studies on heart and blood vessels

15 results · people 0 · animals 15 · lab 0

Top 5 of 15 results

In rats with a blocked heart artery, NDP-MSH left more healthy heart tissue than saline.The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, 2001
In rats with a heart attack model, NDP-alpha-MSH lowered caspase-3 activity, a cell-death marker, in the heart compared with saline.European journal of pharmacology, 2010
In rats, NDP-MSH given into a vein did not change blood pressure.British journal of pharmacology, 1997
In rats with a heart attack model, NDP-alpha-MSH made the damaged heart area smaller than saline.European journal of pharmacology, 2010
In rats, NDP-MSH did not change blood flow in the brain.European journal of pharmacology, 1996

Melanotan 1 studies on cells, genes and aging

17 results · people 0 · animals 11 · lab 6

Top 5 of 17 results

In pigs, NDP-MSH changed the activity of many genes in the brain region called the hypothalamus.Physiological genomics, 2010
In rat lungs perfused outside the body after injury, NDP-MSH lowered lactate production.Peptides, 2021
In cultured astrocytes, NDP-MSH lowered the reactive oxygen species that palmitic acid caused.Journal of neuroendocrinology, 2019
In muscle cells grown in the lab, NDP-MSH increased the burning of fat.The Journal of biological chemistry, 2007
In pigs, NDP-MSH changed the activity of many genes in the liver.Physiological genomics, 2010

Melanotan 1 studies on mood, stress and behavior

11 results · people 0 · animals 11 · lab 0

Top 5 of 11 results

In mice, repeated NDP-MSH injections shortened the time to the first attack.Behavior genetics, 2006
In rats with their ovaries removed, NDP-MSH given beforehand restored reward-seeking behavior that had fallen.Neuroscience, 2020
In mice with inflammation-linked depression-like behavior, NDP-MSH clearly reduced those behaviors.Frontiers in pharmacology, 2026
In rats with their ovaries removed, a small NDP-MSH dose given before nicotine made the reward effect of nicotine stronger.Neuroscience, 2020
In mice, repeated NDP-MSH injections increased aggression.Behavior genetics, 2006

Melanotan 1 studies on lungs and breathing

4 results · people 0 · animals 4 · lab 0

Top 3 of 4 results

In rat lungs perfused outside the body after cardiac death, NDP-MSH improved blood vessel measures compared with controls.Peptides, 2021
In rat lungs perfused outside the body after cardiac death, NDP-MSH improved a measure of peak airway pressure compared with controls.Peptides, 2021
In rat lungs perfused outside the body after cardiac death, NDP-MSH improved lung compliance compared with controls.Peptides, 2021

Melanotan 1 studies on memory and thinking

3 results · people 0 · animals 3 · lab 0

3 results

In gerbils with induced brain ischemia, NDP-alpha-MSH treatment was followed by better recovery of function.European journal of pharmacology, 2006
In gerbils after a stroke, NDP-alpha-MSH given later improved recovery of learning and memory.Brain, behavior, and immunity, 2009
In gerbils treated 18 hours after the ischemia, some memory deficits remained despite NDP-alpha-MSH.European journal of pharmacology, 2006

Melanotan 1 studies on sex hormones and fertility

7 results · people 0 · animals 2 · lab 5

Top 5 of 7 results

In mice, NDP-MSH treatment enlarged the preputial gland.Behavior genetics, 2006
In pigs, NDP-MSH did not change LH secretion across a wide dose range.The Journal of endocrinology, 2004
In fish brain tissue kept in the lab, NDP-MSH raised expression of the reproductive hormone gene gnrh.Journal of comparative physiology. B, Biochemical, systemic, and environmental physiology, 2017
In cells, NDP-MSH increased GnRH release in a dose-dependent way.Peptides, 2006
In fish pituitary tissue kept in the lab, NDP-MSH raised expression of the fshb gene.Journal of comparative physiology. B, Biochemical, systemic, and environmental physiology, 2017

Melanotan 1 studies on growth hormone and growth

2 results · people 0 · animals 2 · lab 0

2 results

In pigs, NDP-MSH did not change GH secretion, apart from one dose.The Journal of endocrinology, 2004
In fasted pigs, one NDP-MSH dose both raised and lowered GH secretion.The Journal of endocrinology, 2004

Melanotan 1 studies on blood sugar

1 result · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 0

1 result

In rats, NDP-MSH lowered blood insulin, and a blocker of the Mc4r receptor reversed this.Endocrine, 2010

Melanotan 1 studies on cholesterol and blood fats

1 result · people 0 · animals 1 · lab 0

1 result

In mice, weekly NDP-MSH for 12 weeks slightly raised triglyceride levels.Investigational new drugs, 1988

Melanotan 1 studies on cancer

4 results · people 0 · animals 0 · lab 4

Top 3 of 4 results

In cancer cells, NDP-alpha-MSH changed the activity of genes linked to growth, adhesion and signaling.Cellular and molecular biology, 2006
In cancer cells, NDP-alpha-MSH lowered the activity of the B-Myb gene.Cellular and molecular biology, 2006
In cancer cells, NDP-alpha-MSH lowered the activity of the Myc gene.Cellular and molecular biology, 2006

Trials and papers

Melanotan 1 trials

Registered trials that test the peptide, with phase, status and dates. A dot marks trials with posted results.

StatusPhase

23 trials match. Highest phase first. Data from ClinicalTrials.gov.

Trials on this page (23 of 23)

23 trials · 1 ongoing · 18 completed · 12 with posted results

Completed
Ongoing
Not yet recruiting
Stopped
Estimated dates (est.)
Results posted

2010201520202025

Ph 3
Multicentre Phase III Erythropoietic Protoporphyria Study
NCT04053270
May 2007 to 9 Dec 2009
Ph –
Phase III Trial of CUV1647 in Polymorphic Light Eruption (PLE)
NCT00472901
May 2007 to Sept 2010
Ph 2
Phase II AK Study in Organ Transplant Patients
NCT00829192
Nov 2007 to est. Aug 2012
Ph 2
Afamelanotide as Adjunctive Therapy in Patients Undergoing Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Utilising Porfimer Sodium
NCT04425746
5 Aug 2008 to 28 May 2009
Ph 2
Phase II Solar Urticaria (SU) Pilot Study
NCT00859534
Dec 2008 to Jul 2009
Ph 3
Phase III Confirmatory Study in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP)
NCT00979745
Sept 2009 to May 2011
Ph 1
Implant Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Study
NCT03634137
Sept 2009 to Mar 2010
Ph 2
Phase II Confirmatory Study in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP)
NCT01097044
Apr 2010 to Apr 2011
Ph 3
Afamelanotide in Patients Suffering From Polymorphic Light Eruption (PLE)
NCT04704713
5 May 2010 to 9 Dec 2010 (primary)
Ph 2
Afamelanotide in Patients Suffering With Acne Vulgaris
NCT04943159
24 Aug 2010 to 8 Mar 2011

23 trials · 1 ongoing · 18 completed · 12 with posted results · source ClinicalTrials.gov (opens in a new tab)

Active, not recruitingPhase 3NCT06109649

A Study to Compare the Efficacy and Safety of SCENESSE and Narrow-Band Ultraviolet (NB-UVB) Light Versus NB-UVB Light Alone in Patients With Vitiligo

Clinuvel, Inc.n = 20011 Oct 2023 to est. Jun 2026

Vitiligo

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 8 Jul 2025

CompletedPhase 3Results postedNCT00979745

Phase III Confirmatory Study in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 74Sept 2009 to May 2011

Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 12 Oct 2021

CompletedPhase 3Results postedNCT04704713

Afamelanotide in Patients Suffering From Polymorphic Light Eruption (PLE)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 315 May 2010 to 9 Dec 2010 (primary)

Polymorphic Light Eruption

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 19 Mar 2021

CompletedPhase 3Results postedNCT04578496

A Safety Extension Study in Patients With Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 1611 Jul 2011 to 27 Feb 2014

Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 19 Nov 2020

CompletedPhase 3Results postedNCT04053270

Multicentre Phase III Erythropoietic Protoporphyria Study

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 100May 2007 to 9 Dec 2009

Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 10 Oct 2019

CompletedPhase 3Results postedNCT01605136

Phase III Confirmatory Study in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 93May 2012 to Jul 2013

Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 19 Sept 2019

CompletedPhase 1/2Results postedNCT06388642

Pharmacokinetics of Afamelanotide in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria Patients

Clinuvel Europe Limitedn = 287 Mar 2024 to 20 Jan 2025

Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 27 Jul 2026

CompletedPhase 2Results postedNCT05854784

Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Afamelanotide in Patients With Variegate Porphyria (VP)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 628 Mar 2023 to 28 Dec 2023

Variegate Porphyria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 27 Apr 2025

CompletedPhase 2Results postedNCT04525157

Afamelanotide and Narrow-Band Ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) Phototherapy in the Treatment of Nonsegmental Vitiligo (NSV)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 216 Jun 2014 to 6 Jun 2016

Vitiligo

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 22 Sept 2023

Status unknownPhase 2NCT05370235

A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Afamelanotide in Patients With Xeroderma Pigmentosum C and V

Clinuvel Europe Limitedn = 628 Mar 2022 to est. Dec 2024

Xeroderma Pigmentosum

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 21 Sept 2023

Status unknownPhase 2NCT05159752

A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Afamelanotide in Patients With Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP)

Clinuvel Europe Limitedn = 619 Oct 2021 to est. Oct 2024

Xeroderma Pigmentosum

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 18 Jun 2023

CompletedPhase 2Results postedNCT04962503

A Proof of Concept Study to Evaluate the Safety of Afamelanotide in Patients With Acute Arterial Ischaemic Stroke (AIS)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 63 Jun 2021 to 4 Feb 2022

Arterial Ischemic Stroke

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 11 Apr 2023

Status unknownPhase 2NCT05210582

A Study to Assess the Changes in Pigmentation and Safety of Afamelanotide in Patients With Vitiligo on the Face

Clinuvel, Inc.n = 611 Oct 2022 to est. Aug 2023

Vitiligo

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 9 Feb 2023

CompletedPhase 2Results postedNCT04943159

Afamelanotide in Patients Suffering With Acne Vulgaris

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 324 Aug 2010 to 8 Mar 2011

Acne Vulgaris

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 26 Oct 2021

CompletedPhase 2Results postedNCT04425746

Afamelanotide as Adjunctive Therapy in Patients Undergoing Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Utilising Porfimer Sodium

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 165 Aug 2008 to 28 May 2009

Patients Undergoing Photodynamic Therapy Using Porfimer Sodium

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 1 Oct 2021

CompletedPhase 2Results postedNCT01097044

Phase II Confirmatory Study in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 77Apr 2010 to Apr 2011

Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 28 Oct 2019

CompletedPhase 2NCT01382589

Afamelanotide and Narrow-Band Ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) Light in the Treatment of Nonsegmental Vitiligo

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 15Sept 2011 to Dec 2012

Vitiligo

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 22 Mar 2013

Status unknownPhase 2NCT00829192

Phase II AK Study in Organ Transplant Patients

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 200Nov 2007 to est. Aug 2012

Actinic Keratoses · Carcinoma, Squamous Cell · Organ Transplant Recipients

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 6 Dec 2010

CompletedPhase 2NCT00859534

Phase II Solar Urticaria (SU) Pilot Study

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 5Dec 2008 to Jul 2009

Solar Urticaria

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 15 Sept 2009

CompletedPhase 1NCT05368857

DNA Repair Capacity of Afamelanotide on Ultraviolet Radiation-induced DNA Damage in Healthy Volunteers

Clinuvel (UK) Ltd.n = 1019 Jan 2022 to 1 Feb 2023

Afamelanotide Evaluated as Skin DNA Repair Therapy in Healthy Volunteers

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 9 Feb 2023

CompletedPhase 1NCT03634137

Implant Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Study

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 24Sept 2009 to Mar 2010

Healthy

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 16 Aug 2018

CompletedPhase 1NCT01430195

Afamelanotide and Narrow-Band Ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) Light in the Treatment of Nonsegmental Vitiligo (NSV)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 56Jun 2011 to Nov 2012

Vitiligo

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 22 Mar 2013

CompletedPhase not statedNCT00472901

Phase III Trial of CUV1647 in Polymorphic Light Eruption (PLE)

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limitedn = 18May 2007 to Sept 2010

Polymorphic Light Eruption (PLE)

Trial page ClinicalTrials.govUpdated 5 Oct 2011

Papers

Studies on this peptide. Some have results. The others have none yet.

Sort

Design

498 studies match. Retracted studies are left out.

Showing 25 of 498 studiesquery qry_8ac4db2eec814dcf7ee356ad

Studies with results

218 studies in all, 13 on this page

Randomized controlled trial · 2015

6 results

Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria.

Langendonk et al. 2015The New England journal of medicinen = 168cited by 203

PMID 26132941PMC4780255DOI 10.1056/nejmoa1411481PUB-26132941

Rights unknown6 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given

Source link See results (6)

Not a test of Melanotan I (afamelanotide) alone · 2009

1 result

MRAP and MRAP2 are bidirectional regulators of the melanocortin receptor family.

Chan et al. 2009Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of Americacited by 199

PMID 19329486PMC2661846DOI 10.1073/pnas.0809918106PUB-19329486

Rights unknown1 result where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was a tool, carrier or part of a combination

Source link See results (1)

Not a test of Melanotan I (afamelanotide) alone · 2009

4 results

Targeted photothermal ablation of murine melanomas with melanocyte-stimulating hormone analog-conjugated hollow gold nanospheres.

Lu et al. 2009Clinical cancer research : an official journal of the American Association for Cancer Researchcited by 189

PMID 19188158PMC2727065DOI 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-08-1480PUB-19188158

Rights unknown4 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was a tool, carrier or part of a combination

Source link See results (4)

Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 2000

5 results

Hypothalamic localization of the feeding effect of agouti-related peptide and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone.

Kim et al. 2000Diabetescited by 166

PMID 10868932DOI 10.2337/diabetes.49.2.177PUB-10868932

Rights unknown5 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given

Source link See results (5)

In vitro (cells) · rat receptor · 1994

2 results

Molecular cloning and characterization of the rat fifth melanocortin receptor.

Griffon et al. 1994Biochemical and biophysical research communicationscited by 151

PMID 8179577DOI 10.1006/bbrc.1994.1550PUB-08179577

Full text at the publisher2 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given

Publisher page See results (2)

Not a test of Melanotan I (afamelanotide) alone · 1999

1 result

Characterization of Agouti-related protein binding to melanocortin receptors.

Yang et al. 1999Molecular endocrinology (Baltimore, Md.)cited by 146

PMID 9892020DOI 10.1210/mend.13.1.0223PUB-09892020

Rights unknown1 result where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was a tool, carrier or part of a combination

Source link See results (1)

In vitro (cells) · mouse receptor in hamster cells · 1994

3 results

Molecular cloning of a mouse melanocortin 5 receptor gene widely expressed in peripheral tissues.

Labbé et al. 1994Biochemistrycited by 145

PMID 8161509DOI 10.1021/bi00181a015PUB-08161509

Full text at the publisher3 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given

Publisher page See results (3)

In vitro (cells) · mouse · 1996

2 results

Characterization of melanocortin receptor subtype expression in murine adipose tissues and in the 3T3-L1 cell line.

Boston et al. 1996Endocrinologycited by 142

PMID 8612546DOI 10.1210/endo.137.5.8612546PUB-08612546

Full text at the publisher1 result where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given (plus 1 on tools or combinations, listed separately)

Publisher page See results (2)

Not a test of Melanotan I (afamelanotide) alone · 2000

3 results

Molecular determinants of ligand binding to the human melanocortin-4 receptor.

Yang et al. 2000Biochemistrycited by 142

PMID 11101306DOI 10.1021/bi001684qPUB-11101306

Full text at the publisher3 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was a tool, carrier or part of a combination

Publisher page See results (3)

Animal study (in vivo) · goldfish · 2003

1 result

The central melanocortin system regulates food intake in goldfish.

Cerdá-Reverter et al. 2003Regulatory peptidescited by 122

PMID 12972325DOI 10.1016/s0167-0115(03)00144-7PUB-12972325

Full text at the publisher1 result where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given

Publisher page See results (1)

In vitro (cells) · mouse · 1996

2 results

Major pharmacological distinction of the ACTH receptor from other melanocortin receptors.

Schiöth et al. 1996Life sciencescited by 119

PMID 8761313DOI 10.1016/0024-3205(96)00370-0PUB-08761313

Full text at the publisher2 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given

Publisher page See results (2)

Randomized controlled trial · 2015

10 results

Afamelanotide and narrowband UV-B phototherapy for the treatment of vitiligo: a randomized multicenter trial.

Lim et al. 2015JAMA dermatologyn = 55cited by 114

PMID 25230094DOI 10.1001/jamadermatol.2014.1875PUB-25230094

Full text at the publisher10 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was given

Publisher page See results (10)

Not a test of Melanotan I (afamelanotide) alone · 1999

4 results

Altered energy balance causes selective changes in melanocortin-4(MC4-R), but not melanocortin-3 (MC3-R), receptors in specific hypothalamic regions: further evidence that activation of MC4-R is a physiological inhibitor of feeding.

Harrold et al. 1999Diabetescited by 104

PMID 10334300DOI 10.2337/diabetes.48.2.267PUB-10334300

Full text at the publisher4 results where Melanotan I (afamelanotide) was a tool, carrier or part of a combination

Publisher page See results (4)

More studies

237 studies in all, 12 on this page

PubMed tag: none · 1992

Corrected

Molecular cloning and expression of the human melanocyte stimulating hormone receptor cDNA.

Chhajlani et al. 1992FEBS letterscited by 461

PMID 1516719DOI 10.1016/0014-5793(92)80820-7PUB-01516719

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page Read the notice

Indexing hint: Animal study · 1980

4-Norleucine, 7-D-phenylalanine-alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone: a highly potent alpha-melanotropin with ultralong biological activity.

Sawyer et al. 1980Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of Americacited by 415

PMID 6777774PMC350149DOI 10.1073/pnas.77.10.5754PUB-06777774

Rights unknown

Source link

Indexing hint: Animal study · 2010

In vivo molecular photoacoustic tomography of melanomas targeted by bioconjugated gold nanocages.

Kim et al. 2010ACS nanocited by 279

PMID 20731439PMC3065066DOI 10.1021/nn100736cPUB-20731439

Rights unknown

Source link

PubMed tag: none · 1995

Cyclic lactam alpha-melanotropin analogues of Ac-Nle4-cyclo[Asp5, D-Phe7,Lys10] alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-(4-10)-NH2 with bulky aromatic amino acids at position 7 show high antagonist potency and selectivity at specific melanocortin receptors.

Hruby et al. 1995Journal of medicinal chemistrycited by 267

PMID 7658432DOI 10.1021/jm00018a005PUB-07658432

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

PubMed tag: Comparative Study · 1993

Corrected

Molecular cloning of a novel human melanocortin receptor.

Chhajlani et al. 1993Biochemical and biophysical research communicationscited by 240

PMID 8396929DOI 10.1006/bbrc.1993.2125PUB-08396929

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page Read the notice

Indexing hint: Animal study · 1989

Potent and prolonged acting cyclic lactam analogues of alpha-melanotropin: design based on molecular dynamics.

Al-Obeidi et al. 1989Journal of medicinal chemistrycited by 209

PMID 2555512DOI 10.1021/jm00132a010PUB-02555512

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

PubMed tag: none · 1989

Characterization of receptors for alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone on human melanoma cells.

Siegrist et al. 1989Cancer researchcited by 173

PMID 2804981PUB-02804981

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

PubMed tag: Review · 2019

From pathogenesis of acne vulgaris to anti-acne agents.

Cong et al. 2019Archives of dermatological researchcited by 164

PMID 30859308DOI 10.1007/s00403-019-01908-xPUB-30859308

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

PubMed tag: none · 2003

Functional characterization of melanocortin-4 receptor mutations associated with childhood obesity.

Tao et al. 2003Endocrinologycited by 143

PMID 12959994DOI 10.1210/en.2003-0524PUB-12959994

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

Indexing hint: Animal study · 1986

Alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone inhibits immunostimulatory and inflammatory actions of interleukin 1.

Cannon et al. 1986Journal of immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)cited by 136

PMID 3489761DOI 10.4049/jimmunol.137.7.2232PUB-03489761

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

PubMed tag: none · 1996

Characterisation of the melanocortin 4 receptor by radioligand binding.

Schiöth et al. 1996Pharmacology & toxicologycited by 102

PMID 8884876DOI 10.1111/j.1600-0773.1996.tb00261.xPUB-08884876

Full text at the publisher

Publisher page

PubMed tag: Review · 2011

Structure, function and regulation of the melanocortin receptors.

Yang et al. 2011European journal of pharmacologycited by 97

PMID 21208602PMC3095696DOI 10.1016/j.ejphar.2010.12.020PUB-21208602

Rights unknown

Source link

Newer studies

PepBank reads each paper before it shows the results. This search looks in Europe PMC for newer papers that PepBank has not read yet.

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) studies: 218 papers with results

Page 1 of 5

Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria.
Langendonk JG · The New England journal of medicine · 2015
Randomized controlled trial · 6 results
Effect of MELANOTAN, [Nle(4), D-Phe(7)]-alpha-MSH, on melanin synthesis in humans with MC1R variant alleles.
Fitzgerald LM · Peptides · 2006
Randomized controlled trial · 2 results
Afamelanotide and narrowband UV-B phototherapy for the treatment of vitiligo: a randomized multicenter trial.
Lim HW · JAMA dermatology · 2015
Randomized controlled trial · 10 results
Effects of a superpotent melanotropic peptide in combination with solar UV radiation on tanning of the skin in human volunteers.
Dorr RT · Archives of dermatology · 2004
Randomized controlled trial · 9 results
Skin pigmentation and pharmacokinetics of melanotan-I in humans.
Ugwu SO · Biopharmaceutics & drug disposition · 1997
Randomized controlled trial · 10 results
Experimental and approved treatments for skin photosensitivity in individuals with erythropoietic protoporphyria or X-linked protoporphyria: A systematic review.
Heerfordt IM · Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie · 2023
Systematic review · 1 result
Evaluation 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 · Skin pharmacology and physiology · 2015
Non-randomized trial · 3 results
Clinical and dermoscopic changes of acquired melanocytic nevi of patients treated with afamelanotide.
Arisi M · Photochemical & photobiological sciences : Official journal of the European Photochemistry Association and the European Society for Photobiology · 2021
Non-randomized trial · 5 results
Acute impact of afamelanotide on UVR erythemal and melanogenic responses in healthy humans in vivo: an exploratory study.
Griffin LL · Photochemical & photobiological sciences : Official journal of the European Photochemistry Association and the European Society for Photobiology · 2026
Non-randomized trial · 4 results
Increased eumelanin expression and tanning is induced by a superpotent melanotropin [Nle4-D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH in humans.
Dorr RT · Photochemistry and photobiology · 2000
Non-randomized trial · 5 results
A feasibility and safety study of afamelanotide in acute stroke patients - an open label, proof of concept, phase iia clinical trial.
Stanislaus V · BMC neurology · 2023
Non-randomized trial · 4 results
Systemic photoprotection in solar urticaria with α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogue [Nle4-D-Phe7]-α-MSH.
Haylett AK · The British journal of dermatology · 2011
Non-randomized trial · 4 results
Mitigating photosensitivity of erythropoietic protoporphyria patients by an agonistic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone.
Harms JH · Photochemistry and photobiology · 2009
Non-randomized trial · 4 results
Beneficial effects of the melanocortin analogue Nle4-D-Phe7-α-MSH in acne vulgaris.
Böhm M · Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV · 2014
Non-randomized trial · 6 results
Efficacy of the melanocortin analogue Nle4-D-Phe7-α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in the treatment of patients with Hailey-Hailey disease.
Biolcati G · Clinical and experimental dermatology · 2014
Non-randomized trial · 4 results
The effects of cholecalciferol and afamelanotide on vitamin D levels in erythropoietic protoporphyria: a multicentre cohort study.
Kluijver LG · The British journal of dermatology · 2024
Observational study · 4 results
German Cohort Observational Study to Investigate the Short- and Long-Term Safety and Clinical Effectiveness of Afamelanotide 16 mg (SCENESSE) in Patients With Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP).
Homey B · Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine · 2025
Observational study · 4 results
Association of Afamelanotide With Improved Outcomes in Patients With Erythropoietic Protoporphyria in Clinical Practice.
Wensink D · JAMA dermatology · 2020
Observational study · 9 results
Long-term observational study of afamelanotide in 115 patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria.
Biolcati G · The British journal of dermatology · 2015
Observational study · 6 results
Erythropoietic protoporphyria: time to prodrome, the warning signal to exit sun exposure without pain-a patient-reported outcome efficacy measure.
Wensink D · Genetics in medicine : official journal of the American College of Medical Genetics · 2021
Observational study · 5 results
Afamelanotide Is Associated with Dose-Dependent Protective Effect from Liver Damage Related to Erythropoietic Protoporphyria.
Minder AE · Life (Basel, Switzerland) · 2023
Observational study · 3 results
Objective light exposure measurements and circadian rhythm in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria: A case-control study.
Wensink D · Molecular genetics and metabolism · 2022
Observational study · 5 results
Increased phototoxic burn tolerance time and quality of life in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria treated with afamelanotide - a three years observational study.
Barman-Aksözen J · Orphanet journal of rare diseases · 2020
Observational study · 5 results
Beyond pigmentation: signs of liver protection during afamelanotide treatment in Swiss patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, an observational study.
Minder AE · Therapeutic advances in rare disease · 2021
Observational study · 7 results
Afamelanotide for Treatment of the Protoporphyrias: Impact on Quality of Life and Laboratory Parameters in a US Cohort.
Leaf RK · Life (Basel, Switzerland) · 2024
Observational study · 5 results
A bioassay for the detection of neutralizing antibodies against the α-melanocyte stimulating hormone analog afamelanotide in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria.
Spichty R · Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis · 2013
Observational study · 3 results
Afamelanotide improves quality of life and light tolerance in Austrian erythropoietic protoporphyria patients.
Seidl-Philipp M · Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft = Journal of the German Society of Dermatology : JDDG · 2026
Observational study · 4 results
Erythropoietic protoporphyria in the Netherlands: Clinical features, psychosocial impact and the effect of afamelanotide.
Wensink D · The Journal of dermatology · 2023
Observational study · 5 results
The Impact of Minimal Sunlight Exposure on Bone Health: Insights From a Cohort Study in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria.
Kluijver LG · The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism · 2025
Observational study · 1 result
Into the Light: Afamelanotide and the Treatment of Erythropoietic Protoporphyria in the United States.
Resnik SR · Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD · 2023
Observational study · 2 results
Quality-Adjusted Life Years in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria and Other Rare Diseases: A Patient-Initiated EQ-5D Feasibility Study.
Barman-Aksözen J · International journal of environmental research and public health · 2023
Case report or series · 3 results
Congenital Erythropoietic Porphyria with Persistent Severe Biochemical Abnormalities and a Non-Mutilating Clinical Course: A Case Report.
Peshin S · Reports (MDPI) · 2026
Case report or series · 2 results
When the diagnosis is written in the DNA: a case of erythropoietic protoporphyria in a patient with a chromosome-18 deletion.
Rovaris S · Dermatology reports · 2024
Case report or series · 1 result
Gene expression in hypothalamus, liver, and adipose tissues and food intake response to melanocortin-4 receptor agonist in pigs expressing melanocortin-4 receptor mutations.
Barb CR · Physiological genomics · 2010
Animal study (in vivo) · pig · 9 results
NDP-MSH treatment recovers marginal lungs during ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP).
Lonati C · Peptides · 2021
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 11 results
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and [Nle4,D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH: effects on core temperature in rats.
Raible LH · Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior · 1993
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 5 results
Melanocortin modulation of inflammatory cytokine and neuroendocrine responses to endotoxin in the monkey.
Vulliémoz NR · Endocrinology · 2006
Animal study (in vivo) · monkey · 6 results
Hypothalamic localization of the feeding effect of agouti-related peptide and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone.
Kim MS · Diabetes · 2000
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 5 results
The central melanocortin system regulates food intake in goldfish.
Cerdá-Reverter JM · Regulatory peptides · 2003
Animal study (in vivo) · goldfish · 1 result
Specific receptors for alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone are widely distributed in tissues of rodents.
Tatro JB · Endocrinology · 1987
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse and rat · 4 results
NDP-MSH binding melanocortin-1 receptor ameliorates neuroinflammation and BBB disruption through CREB/Nr4a1/NF-κB pathway after intracerebral hemorrhage in mice.
Wu X · Journal of neuroinflammation · 2019
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 15 results
Central injection in rats of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analog: effects on food intake and brain Fos.
Brown KS · Regulatory peptides · 1998
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 7 results
Melanocortin-1 receptor activation is neuroprotective in mouse models of neuroinflammatory disease.
Mykicki N · Science translational medicine · 2016
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 8 results
The hypothalamic melanocortin system stimulates the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis in vitro and in vivo in male rats.
Dhillo WS · Neuroendocrinology · 2002
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 4 results
β-Endorphin antagonizes the effects of α-MSH on food intake and body weight.
Dutia R · Endocrinology · 2012
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 7 results
Central melanocortin receptors mediate changes in food intake in the rhesus macaque.
Koegler FH · Endocrinology · 2001
Animal study (in vivo) · rhesus macaque · 2 results
Protective effect of melanocortin peptides in rat myocardial ischemia.
Bazzani C · The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics · 2001
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 1 result
Central administration of selective melanocortin 4 receptor antagonist HS014 prevents morphine tolerance and withdrawal hyperalgesia.
Kalange AS · Brain research · 2007
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 2 results
Pre-obese and obese agouti mice are sensitive to the anorectic effects of peptide YY(3-36) but resistant to ghrelin.
Martin NM · International journal of obesity and related metabolic disorders : journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity · 2004
Animal study (in vivo) · mouse · 2 results
Neuroprotection in focal cerebral ischemia owing to delayed treatment with melanocortins.
Giuliani D · European journal of pharmacology · 2007
Animal study (in vivo) · rat · 3 results

Status and safety

Regulatory and safety

Approval and sport status, and the safety outcomes reported in study results. Laws and labels change, so check the regulator for the current status.

Regulatory status by jurisdiction, with date and source
Jurisdiction	Body	Status	As of	Source
US	FDA	Scenesse · 8 Oct 2019	13 Oct 2026	api.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)
EU	EMA	Scenesse · 22 Dec 2014	13 Oct 2026	ema.europa.eu (opens in a new tab)
Sport	WADA	Not listed as banned by WADA Both PDFs were downloaded through a browser session on 2026-10-13 (scripts get HTTP 202 from the site firewall) and searched as text: no 'melanotan', 'afamelanotide', 'melanocort', 'MSH', 'NDP', 'tanning' or 'Scenesse' appears in either List.	2026 List	wada-ama.org (opens in a new tab)
Australia (TGA)	Note	Registered on the ARTG: SCENESSE afamelanotide (as acetate) 16 mg implant vial, ARTG 327947, sponsor Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Ltd, new chemical entity, priority review, ARTG entry 2020-11-18. The AusPAR cover table and the TGA decision summary give the decision date as 22 October 2020; the AusPAR timeline and the TGA registrations page give the registration decision as 26 October 2020. The ARTG page, AusPAR and registrations page all give 18 November 2020 for the ARTG entry. Read on 2026-10-13 through a page-reading tool, because tga.gov.au resets script connections. Indication: prevention of phototoxicity in adult patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP).	13 Oct 2026	tga.gov.au (opens in a new tab)
Canada (Health Canada)	Note	Drug Product Database: SCENESSE implant, subcutaneous, 16 mg, DIN 02569825, Clinuvel, Inc., status Approved (history date 2026-07-09). Re-read 2026-10-13: drug code 107203, active ingredient afamelanotide (as acetate) 16 mg, form implant, route subcutaneous, company CLINUVEL, INC., last update 2026-08-28. The API gives no indication text and no original market date.	13 Oct 2026	health-products.canada.ca (opens in a new tab)
Switzerland (Swissmedic)	Note	No Swissmedic authorisation found. A 2017 Federal Supreme Court ruling (BGE 143 V 130) describes Scenesse as not authorised by Swissmedic and authorised in Germany. Clinuvel's FAQ says the product is available by prescription from accredited expert centres in Europe, the UK, Switzerland and Israel, which fits supply of an unauthorised medicine; this was not checked further. The Swissmedic database was not searched directly, so a later authorisation is not excluded.	13 Oct 2026	search.bger.ch (opens in a new tab)
Russia	Note	No medicine entry found for 'афамеланотид' or 'scenesse' in a name search of the RLS register (rlsnet.ru) on 2026-10-13. The 'афамеланотид' search returns only an ATC classification entry (Афамеланотид). A control search for 'семаглутид' returns medicine entries and active-substance entries. The State Register of Medicines (grls.rosminzdrav.ru) was not searched directly, because its search is a form.	13 Oct 2026	rlsnet.ru (opens in a new tab)
Israel	Note	Clinuvel states (2025-09-23) that Scenesse is approved for commercial distribution in Europe, the USA, Israel and Australia. The Israeli register was not checked.	13 Oct 2026	clinuvel.com (opens in a new tab)
United Kingdom	Note	NICE highly specialised technology guidance HST27 says afamelanotide (Scenesse, Clinuvel) has a marketing authorisation in the UK under 'exceptional circumstances' for prevention of phototoxicity in adults with EPP. NICE did not recommend it for use in the NHS in England (evaluation report). The MHRA database was not searched directly.	13 Oct 2026	nice.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
Japan	Note	No approval found. One web search on 2026-10-13 returned no PMDA entry. The PMDA database was not searched directly.	13 Oct 2026	Not recorded

Safety outcomes

36 safety results for Melanotan I (afamelanotide).

Human evidence· 29

In patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, adverse events with afamelanotide were mostly mild.
Randomized controlled trialn = 168
In patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, serious adverse events were not thought to be related to the study drug.
Randomized controlled trialn = 168
Erythema was a notable adverse event in both the combination group and the NB-UV-B monotherapy group.
Randomized controlled trialn = 55
Minor infections were a notable adverse event in the afamelanotide plus NB-UV-B group.
Randomized controlled trialn = 55
Nausea was a notable adverse event in the afamelanotide plus NB-UV-B group.
Randomized controlled trialn = 55
In three male volunteers, side effects of melanotan I were minimal and included occasional gastrointestinal upset.
Randomized controlled trialn = 3
In three male volunteers, side effects of melanotan I were minimal and included facial flushing.
Randomized controlled trialn = 3
In 26 patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria exposed to afamelanotide for up to 6 years, no immunoreactivity was found in 23.
Non-randomized trialn = 26
Patients without immunoreactivity
23 patients
EPP patients exposed up to 6 years

The top 24 of 29 results.

Doses studied · 46

The doses that these studies used. They are not recommendations.

16 mgHuman
Species
human
Route
subcutaneous implant
Duration
6 months
Design
Randomized controlled trial · n = 94
16 mgHuman
Species
human
Route
subcutaneous
Duration
4 months
Design
Randomized controlled trial · n = 55
0.16 mg/kgHuman
Species
human
Route
Not reported
Duration
4 weeks
Design
Randomized controlled trial · n = 8
0.08 mg/kg per dayHuman
Species
human
Route
subcutaneous
Duration
10 days
Design
Randomized controlled trial · n = 4
0.08 to 0.21 mg/kgHuman
Species
human
Route
subcutaneous
Duration
5 consecutive days for 2 weeks (ten doses)
Design
Randomized controlled trial · n = 3
0.16 mg/kgHuman
Species
human
Route
oral
Duration
5 consecutive days for 2 weeks (ten doses)
Design
Randomized controlled trial · n = 3

Doses studied in the study results, as given in the studies.
Dose as reported	Class	Species	Route	Duration	Design
16 mg	Human	human	subcutaneous implant	6 months	Randomized controlled trial · n = 94
16 mg	Human	human	subcutaneous	4 months	Randomized controlled trial · n = 55
0.16 mg/kg	Human	human	Not reported	4 weeks	Randomized controlled trial · n = 8
0.08 mg/kg per day	Human	human	subcutaneous	10 days	Randomized controlled trial · n = 4
0.08 to 0.21 mg/kg	Human	human	subcutaneous	5 consecutive days for 2 weeks (ten doses)	Randomized controlled trial · n = 3
0.16 mg/kg	Human	human	oral	5 consecutive days for 2 weeks (ten doses)	Randomized controlled trial · n = 3

6 of 46 shown

PepBank is a research reference. Talk to a doctor before you use any peptide.

Data

Data and API

Data version, change history and code for this peptide.

Data version 30856030 Oct 2026

Peptide

Peptide id: PEP-000057
Peptide version: 6
Peptide hash: f9c52254b24baec3…
Data version: 308560

Latest changes

27 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 256725
22 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 254546
21 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 213639
14 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 194708
13 Oct 2026UpdatedData version 188879
13 Oct 2026CreatedData version 175776

For developers

curl -s https://pepbank.io/v1/briefs/melanotan-i

Evidence summary for Melanotan I (afamelanotide): counts by class, key results with sources, notices, data version.

Peptide as JSON Evidence summary as JSON

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	Total
Skin and hairSkin and wound	Human: 25 results from 12 studies: 10 increase, 10 decrease, 3 no significant change, 2 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	Lab: 2 results from 2 studies: 2 increase. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	27
PigmentationSkin and wound	Human: 24 results from 9 studies: 18 increase, 2 decrease, 4 no significant change. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	Animal: 3 results from 2 studies: 2 increase, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 16 results from 6 studies: 11 increase, 1 decrease, 3 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	43
Adverse eventsWhole body	Human: 24 results from 12 studies: 2 increase, 6 no significant change, 16 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	Animal: 5 results from 1 study: 1 increase, 4 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	29
Quality of lifeWhole body	Human: 14 results from 9 studies: 8 increase, 1 decrease, 2 no significant change, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	No results	No results	14
Photosensitivity and sun toleranceSkin and wound	Human: 11 results from 4 studies: 7 increase, 4 decrease. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	No results	No results	11
Porphyria markers and attacksWhole body	Human: 7 results from 2 studies: 1 increase, 3 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Observational study	No results	No results	No results	7
PharmacokineticsPharmacology	Human: 6 results from 1 study: 6 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	Animal: 3 results from 2 studies: 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 1 result from 1 study: 1 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	10
PainSkin and wound	Human: 5 results from 4 studies: 5 decrease. Strongest design: Observational study	Animal: 2 results from 1 study: 1 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	7
Exercise and physical functionSkin and wound	Human: 5 results from 2 studies: 4 increase, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Observational study	Animal: 1 result from 1 study: 1 increase. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	6
Liver fat and liver functionLiver	Human: 5 results from 3 studies: 4 decrease, 1 no significant change. Strongest design: Observational study	No results	No results	No results	5
Treatment adherence and retentionWhole body	Human: 4 results from 4 studies: 4 not reported. Strongest design: Observational study	No results	No results	No results	4
Immune responseKidney and urinary	Human: 3 results from 2 studies: 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Non-randomized trial	Animal: 11 results from 5 studies: 2 increase, 9 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 12 results from 3 studies: 1 increase, 8 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	26

Outcome group	Human	Animal	Lab	Computer model	Total
Skin and hairSkin and wound	Human: 25 results from 12 studies: 10 increase, 10 decrease, 3 no significant change, 2 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	Lab: 2 results from 2 studies: 2 increase. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	27
PigmentationSkin and wound	Human: 24 results from 9 studies: 18 increase, 2 decrease, 4 no significant change. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	Animal: 3 results from 2 studies: 2 increase, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 16 results from 6 studies: 11 increase, 1 decrease, 3 no significant change, 1 not reported. Strongest design: In vitro (cells)	No results	43
Adverse eventsWhole body	Human: 24 results from 12 studies: 2 increase, 6 no significant change, 16 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	Animal: 5 results from 1 study: 1 increase, 4 no significant change. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	29
Quality of lifeWhole body	Human: 14 results from 9 studies: 8 increase, 1 decrease, 2 no significant change, 3 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	No results	No results	14
Photosensitivity and sun toleranceSkin and wound	Human: 11 results from 4 studies: 7 increase, 4 decrease. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	No results	No results	No results	11
Porphyria markers and attacksWhole body	Human: 7 results from 2 studies: 1 increase, 3 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Observational study	No results	No results	No results	7
PharmacokineticsPharmacology	Human: 6 results from 1 study: 6 not reported. Strongest design: Randomized controlled trial	Animal: 3 results from 2 studies: 3 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 1 result from 1 study: 1 not reported. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	10
PainSkin and wound	Human: 5 results from 4 studies: 5 decrease. Strongest design: Observational study	Animal: 2 results from 1 study: 1 decrease, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	7
Exercise and physical functionSkin and wound	Human: 5 results from 2 studies: 4 increase, 1 not reported. Strongest design: Observational study	Animal: 1 result from 1 study: 1 increase. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	No results	No results	6
Liver fat and liver functionLiver	Human: 5 results from 3 studies: 4 decrease, 1 no significant change. Strongest design: Observational study	No results	No results	No results	5
Treatment adherence and retentionWhole body	Human: 4 results from 4 studies: 4 not reported. Strongest design: Observational study	No results	No results	No results	4
Immune responseKidney and urinary	Human: 3 results from 2 studies: 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Non-randomized trial	Animal: 11 results from 5 studies: 2 increase, 9 decrease. Strongest design: Animal study (in vivo)	Lab: 12 results from 3 studies: 1 increase, 8 decrease, 3 no significant change. Strongest design: Ex vivo tissue	No results	26