Name: Dersimelagon (MT-7117) in Erythropoietic protoporphyria or X-linked protoporphyria: Mechanism of action
Published: 2026-09-21T21:42:40-04:00

Product information and disease description Product description Product information Pharmacology

Mechanism of action

2 evidence topics · 3 sources

Receptor target and the eumelanin barrier

“This medicine, also known as MT-7117, activates a receptor called melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R). Activation of MC1R improves the production of melanin, specifically by increasing the protective brown/black type of pigmentation (called eumelanin) in the skin. This results in a physical barrier that blocks ultraviolet (UV) and visible light, which can cause cellular damage and phototoxicity in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). In addition to establishing a physical barrier, MC1R activation can also minimise cellular damage and pain experienced by patients with EPP through increased gene repair and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.” (opens the source at this quote in a new tab)

Induction of melanogenesis without sun exposure

“Dersimelagon (MT‐7117) is a novel synthetic, orally administered, nonpeptide small molecule that acts as a selective agonist of the melanocortin‐1 receptor, inducing melanogenesis in the absence of sun exposure.” (opens the source at this quote in a new tab)

“Dersimelagon is designed to increase skin melanin, helping reduce sunlight penetration and protect against phototoxic reactions.” (opens the source at this quote in a new tab)