Comparison
Melanotan II vs. SNAP-8
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Cosmetic
CAS no.
121062-08-6
868844-74-0
Molecular weight
1024.18 g/mol
1075.16 g/mol
Half-life
1 h
no data
Sequence
Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2Mechanism of action
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.
SNAP-8
SNAP-8 is an octapeptide variant of Argireline. The sequence corresponds to the N-terminus of the SNAP-25 protein. As with Argireline, the postulated mechanism is competitive inhibition of the SNARE complex needed for acetylcholine vesicle fusion at the neuromuscular endplate. According to the manufacturer the two extra C-terminal amino acids increase SNARE-complex affinity — there are individual industry studies on this but no independent systematic confirmation.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human trial
Studies
5
3
of which in humans
5
1
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
0
0
Documented adverse events
3
1