Comparison
Exenatide vs. Melanotan II
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Research other
CAS no.
141758-74-9
121062-08-6
Molecular weight
4186.6 g/mol
1024.18 g/mol
Half-life
2.4 h
1 h
Sequence
HGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPPSAc-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2Mechanism of action
Exenatide
Exenatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide with about 53% sequence homology to human GLP-1. A glycine substitution at position 2 prevents dipeptidyl-peptidase-IV cleavage and extends the half-life from native GLP-1 (minutes) to about 2.4 hours. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon and delays gastric emptying.
Melanotan II
Melanotan II binds non-selectively to all five melanocortin-receptor subtypes (MC1R-MC5R). Via MC1R in melanocytes, eumelanin synthesis is stimulated (pigmenting effect). Via MC4R and MC3R in the CNS, appetite, sexual function and blood pressure are modulated. The cyclic structure and D-amino acids increase stability compared to natural α-MSH.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
5
5
of which in humans
4
5
Effects recorded
3
4
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
2
3