Melanotan II vs SNAP-8: Research Comparison
Comparing two distinct peptide classes: melanocortin receptor agonists and SNARE complex modulators. Understanding their different mechanisms for specialized research applications.
Quick Comparison
| Category | Melanotan II | SNAP-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Compound Type | Cyclic melanocortin peptide | Linear octapeptide fragment |
| Amino Acid Length | 7 amino acids (cyclic) | 8 amino acids (linear) |
| Origin/Design | α-MSH analogue | SNAP-25 C-terminus fragment |
| Primary Target | Melanocortin receptors (MC1-5R) | SNARE complex formation |
| Research Focus | Melanocortin signaling | Neurotransmitter release |
| Molecular Weight | ~1,024 Da | ~868 Da |
| Purity Standard | ≥98% HPLC verified | ≥98% HPLC verified |
| Documentation | Full COA with MS confirmation | Full COA with MS confirmation |
What Is Melanotan II?
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analogue of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). The sequence Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 incorporates a lactam bridge that creates the characteristic cyclic structure, enhancing receptor binding and proteolytic stability.
Melanotan II is researched for its activity at melanocortin receptors:
- MC1R - Primary melanocortin receptor in melanocytes
- MC3R/MC4R - Central nervous system melanocortin receptors
- MC5R - Exocrine gland melanocortin receptor
- Non-selective agonist properties for receptor studies
Melanotan II provides researchers with a tool for studying melanocortin receptor signaling, receptor selectivity, and downstream pathway activation in laboratory models.
What Is SNAP-8?
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) is a synthetic linear octapeptide with the sequence Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2. It is designed as a fragment analogue of SNAP-25 (Synaptosomal-Associated Protein of 25 kDa), which is a component of the SNARE complex involved in vesicular fusion.
SNAP-8 research applications include:
- SNARE complex formation studies
- Vesicular fusion mechanism research
- Neurotransmitter release modulation
- Competitive inhibition studies
SNAP-8 is frequently studied alongside other acetylated peptides for comparative research into SNARE complex modulation and neuromuscular signaling.
Mechanism of Action Comparison
Melanotan II
- •Melanocortin receptor agonism
- •cAMP pathway activation
- •Non-selective MC receptor binding
- •GPCR signaling cascade
SNAP-8
- •SNARE complex competitive inhibition
- •Vesicular fusion modulation
- •SNAP-25 mimetic activity
- •Neurotransmitter release reduction
Research Applications Comparison
These peptides serve entirely different research purposes and are not interchangeable. Selection depends on the biological system under investigation.
Melanotan II Applications
- • Melanocortin receptor characterization
- • MC receptor selectivity studies
- • cAMP signaling pathway research
- • Pigmentation pathway studies
- • GPCR agonist mechanism research
SNAP-8 Applications
- • SNARE complex assembly studies
- • Neuromuscular junction research
- • Vesicular trafficking research
- • Acetylated peptide comparisons
- • Exocytosis mechanism studies
Stability & Handling Comparison
Melanotan II Handling
- • Cyclic structure enhances stability
- • Lyophilized: -20°C storage
- • Reconstituted: 2-8°C
- • Protect from light
- • Check disulfide/lactam integrity
SNAP-8 Handling
- • Linear structure, standard stability
- • Lyophilized: -20°C storage
- • Reconstituted: 2-8°C
- • Good aqueous solubility
- • Protect from oxidation
Summary: Researcher Selection Framework
Choose Melanotan II When:
- ✓ Studying melanocortin receptors
- ✓ Investigating GPCR signaling
- ✓ Researching pigmentation pathways
- ✓ Comparing MC receptor subtypes
Choose SNAP-8 When:
- ✓ Studying SNARE complex formation
- ✓ Investigating vesicular fusion
- ✓ Researching neurotransmitter release
- ✓ Comparing acetylated peptides
Both peptides include ≥98% purity verification. For melanocortin receptor comparisons, see Melanotan I vs II. Browse our complete peptide catalog for research peptides available in Canada.
Why Documentation & Testing Matter
In research settings, the reliability of results depends entirely on the quality and consistency of materials used. Third-party verification provides an objective baseline for researchers to trust their experimental inputs.
Third-Party Testing
Independent laboratory verification ensures unbiased purity and identity confirmation.
Batch Consistency
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≥98% Purity Standard
HPLC and mass spectrometry verification for research-grade quality assurance.
Transparent COAs
Complete Certificates of Analysis available for every product and batch.
Research-Grade Standards from Maple Research Labs
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Research-Only Compliance
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Consistent Quality Standards
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary structural differences between Melanotan II and SNAP-8?
Melanotan II is a cyclic 7-amino acid peptide designed as an α-MSH analogue that targets melanocortin receptors. SNAP-8 is a linear 8-amino acid peptide fragment of SNAP-25, designed to interact with the SNARE complex involved in neurotransmitter release.
Do these peptides target similar biological systems?
No, they target completely different systems. Melanotan II acts on melanocortin receptors involved in pigmentation and other physiological processes. SNAP-8 targets the SNARE complex involved in vesicular fusion and neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions.
Which peptide has a cyclic structure and why does it matter?
Melanotan II has a cyclic structure created by a disulfide or lactam bridge. This cyclic conformation enhances receptor binding specificity and proteolytic stability compared to linear α-MSH. SNAP-8's linear structure is appropriate for its competitive inhibition mechanism.
What documentation should researchers expect for these peptides?
Both peptides should include COAs with HPLC purity analysis (≥98%), mass spectrometry identity confirmation, and peptide content analysis. Melanotan II COAs should confirm cyclic structure integrity.
Are both peptides available for research in Canada?
Yes, both Melanotan II and SNAP-8 are available as research peptides from qualified Canadian suppliers. Products are labeled for research use only with appropriate documentation for laboratory applications.
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