α-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone, acetylated-[D-Val13] (11-13) (MSHa) CAS NO.137359-89-8

The mechanism of action involves binding to melanocortin receptors (primarily MC1R and MC4R) as an agonist, triggering intracellular signaling through Gαs protein coupling and cAMP accumulation. The N-terminal acetylation and D-Val13 substitution are structural modifications designed to enhance enzymatic stability by reducing proteolytic degradation, potentially prolonging the peptide's half-life in biological systems. These modifications may also influence receptor binding affinity and selectivity profile compared to the native α-MSH sequence. Upon receptor activation, the peptide initiates downstream signaling cascades that regulate melanogenesis in melanocytes, appetite regulation in the hypothalamus, and various peripheral metabolic processes, although the specific pharmacological characteristics of this modified analog require experimental characterization.

This MSHa analog is indicated for research use only in preclinical studies investigating melanocortin receptor pharmacology, structure-activity relationships of modified peptides, and the effects of D-amino acid substitutions and acetylation on peptide function and stability. It serves as a tool compound in receptor binding assays, functional cAMP assays, and comparative studies with other α-MSH analogs to understand how specific structural modifications influence receptor interaction, metabolic stability, and biological activity. The product is also used in studies exploring the development of modified peptide therapeutics targeting melanocortin pathways for potential applications in pigmentation disorders, metabolic diseases, or other conditions. It is not intended for diagnostic, therapeutic, or clinical applications in humans or animals.