Comparison
Kisspeptin-10 vs. Melanotan II
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
374675-21-5
121062-08-6
Molecular weight
1302.44 g/mol
1024.18 g/mol
Half-life
0.07 h
1 h
Sequence
H-Tyr-Asn-Trp-Asn-Ser-Phe-Gly-Leu-Arg-Phe-NH2Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2Mechanism of action
Kisspeptin-10
Kisspeptin-10 comprises the ten C-terminal amino acids sufficient for binding to the KISS1R receptor (also GPR54). KISS1R is a G-protein-coupled receptor expressed predominantly on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. Activation signals through the Gq/11-phospholipase C pathway to release gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which in turn drives the pituitary to secrete luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Kisspeptin signaling is regarded as an indispensable trigger of puberty; inactivating mutations in KISS1R are associated with absent puberty (idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism). Beyond the reproductive axis, KISS1R expression is described in limbic brain regions, discussed as a possible mechanism for the effects on sexual and emotional processing observed in imaging studies.
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
4
9
of which in humans
4
5
Effects recorded
4
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
6
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Kisspeptin-10 and Melanotan II?
- Kisspeptin-10 is classified as "Research other", while Melanotan II is classified as "Research other". Kisspeptin-10: Kisspeptin-10 is the shortest bioactive fragment (10 amino acids) of the endogenous neuropeptide kisspeptin, encoded by the KISS1 gene. It acts as an agonist at the KISS1R (GPR54) receptor and stimulates hypothalamic GnRH neurons, driving release of LH and FSH. Kisspeptin is a master switch of puberty and reproduction and is studied in humans, notably by the group of Waljit Dhillo (Imperial College London), in reproductive disorders and in sexual and emotional brain processing. It is not an approved drug. Melanotan II: Cyclic hepta-peptide and non-selective melanocortin-receptor agonist. Originally researched at the University of Arizona as a sun-protection concept — never approved as a medicine. Widespread on the black market; regulatory warnings for cardiovascular and oncological risks. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Kisspeptin-10 or Melanotan II?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Kisspeptin-10 and "Human trial" for Melanotan II. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Kisspeptin-10 and Melanotan II in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Kisspeptin-10 — Unapproved, Melanotan II — Unapproved. United States: Kisspeptin-10 — Research only, Melanotan II — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.