Endocrine & Reproductive

PT-141

Melanocortin peptide approved by the FDA for female sexual dysfunction. It acts directly on the central nervous system to enhance sexual desire in both men and women.

Also known as: Bremelanotide

Specifications

Research areaEndocrine & Reproductive
Half-life2–3 h
Molecular weight1025.2 Da
Amino acid residues7
CAS number189691-06-3
FormulaC₅₀H₆₈N₁₄O₁₀
SequenceAc-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OH
DesignationBremelanotide (PT-141)

Pharmacokinetics

Half-life2–3 h
T-max~1 h (SC)
Bioavailability~100% (SC)
RouteSubcutaneous / intranasal (research use)

Receptor targets

MC4RPrimary melanocortin agonist
MC3RSecondary agonist
Hypothalamic dopaminergic neuronsCentral pathway

Signalling cascade

  1. MC4R / MC3R binding
  2. Gαs / cAMP ↑
  3. Hypothalamic dopamine release
  4. Central neuroendocrine response

Research areas

LibidoSexual functionDesireErectile function
Mechanism of action
Cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist with selective activity at MC3R and MC4R. Acts centrally on hypothalamic dopaminergic and serotonergic circuits, modulating neuroendocrine signaling pathways distinct from peripheral vascular mechanisms.
Reported research ranges
1–2 mg subcutaneously 45–60 minutes prior to sexual activity. Maximum one dose every 24 hours.
Reported adverse effects
Nausea (most common effect), facial flushing, transient hyperpigmentation, increased blood pressure. Administer on an empty stomach.
Storage and handling
Refrigerate at 2–8 °C after reconstitution. Protect from light.

Research focus

  • MC3R and MC4R receptor pharmacology and selectivity
  • Hypothalamic neuromodulation via dopaminergic pathways
  • Serotonergic circuit interaction and CNS signaling
  • Melanocortin system regulation in preclinical models
  • Vascular signaling downstream of central melanocortin activation

Overview

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a melanocortin-4 receptor agonist peptide specifically designed for research in neuromodulation and vascular signaling. This peptide is primarily investigated in preclinical models to better understand its interaction with melanocortin receptors, which play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including appetite regulation and sexual function.

With a purity of ≥99% and a complete certificate of analysis, PT-141 is a valuable tool for scientists seeking to explore its effects in areas such as behavioral modulation and vascular response. Research in this field may provide new insights into how peptides can influence health and well-being through neurological and vascular mechanisms.

This material is published for scientific and educational reference. It is not medical advice, not a treatment recommendation, and not an offer to sell. Compounds discussed are for research and laboratory use only.

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