Melanotan-2 (MT-2) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that acts on melanocortin receptors. It was originally developed for research into skin pigmentation and photoprotection. MT-2 binds to MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R receptors, producing a range of effects beyond melanogenesis. Research has examined its influence on pigmentation, appetite regulation, and sexual function. The peptide stimulates melanin production in melanocytes, leading to increased skin pigmentation. MT-2 remains an important tool for studying melanocortin receptor biology and pigmentation pathways.