Description
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) Research Peptide — Melanocortin-4 Receptor Agonist
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonist originally derived from Melanotan II. Unlike its parent compound, PT-141 peptide was specifically optimized for MC4R selectivity, making it the primary research tool for studying central nervous system pathways involved in sexual-function signaling, arousal, and neuromodulation — areas distinct from melanogenesis.
Mechanism of Action
PT-141 peptide activates MC4R receptors in the hypothalamus and limbic system, triggering downstream dopaminergic and oxytocinergic signaling cascades. This central mechanism of action distinguishes it from peripherally-acting compounds. In preclinical models, MC4R activation by PT-141 has been associated with increased sexual motivation and arousal behaviors in both male and female subjects, without significant effects on vascular smooth muscle.
Key Research Applications
- MC4R pharmacology and melanocortin-receptor signaling
- Sexual-function and arousal-pathway neuroscience
- Central nervous system neuromodulation studies
- Comparative melanocortin-agonist research
Related Research Compounds
Melanotan II provides the parent compound for broad melanocortin-receptor comparison studies. Kisspeptin offers a GnRH-based approach to reproductive endocrinology, while Oxytocin targets social bonding and neuroendocrine pathways relevant to sexual-function research.
Product Specifications
Each vial contains PT-141 peptide manufactured in the USA under ISO-certified conditions. Verified to ≥99% purity by HPLC analysis, with endotoxin screening below 0.1 EU/mg. Certificate of Analysis (COA) available upon request. For laboratory research use only.
Storage & Handling
Lyophilized PT-141 peptide should be stored at -20°C in a sealed container protected from light and moisture for optimal long-term stability. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water and store the resulting solution at 2–8°C, using all reconstituted material within 28 days. Prepare single-use aliquots at the time of reconstitution to minimize degradation from repeated freeze-thaw cycles. All handling should follow standard aseptic laboratory procedures. This product is for laboratory research use only and is not intended for human consumption.
Research Background & Literature
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) was developed in the late 1990s by researchers at the University of Arizona, evolving from the earlier Melanotan II compound synthesized by Dr. Victor Hruby and colleagues. While Melanotan II was originally designed for melanogenesis research, PT-141 was specifically optimized for MC4R selectivity after unexpected observations of central nervous system activity in preclinical models. The compound has been the subject of over 120 peer-reviewed publications in journals including The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Peptides, and Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Research groups at the University of Arizona, Palatin Technologies, and various academic pharmacology departments have extensively characterized its melanocortin-receptor binding profile and CNS-mediated mechanisms. PT-141 remains the most widely cited selective MC4R agonist in preclinical sexual-function and neuromodulation research literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does PT-141 differ from Melanotan II in research applications?
PT-141 was derived from Melanotan II but optimized for selective MC4R activation, whereas Melanotan II acts broadly across multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes including MC1R (melanogenesis). This selectivity makes PT-141 the preferred tool for studying central nervous system pathways related to arousal and neuromodulation without confounding melanogenic effects. Both compounds are supplied for laboratory research use only.
What purity and quality assurance standards apply to this PT-141 product?
PT-141 is manufactured in the USA under ISO-certified conditions and verified to ≥99% purity by HPLC analysis, with endotoxin screening confirmed below 0.1 EU/mg. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available upon request for research documentation and regulatory compliance.
What receptor pathways does PT-141 activate in preclinical research models?
PT-141 primarily activates melanocortin-4 receptors (MC4R) in hypothalamic and limbic brain regions, triggering downstream dopaminergic and oxytocinergic signaling cascades. This central mechanism of action is distinct from peripherally-acting compounds and makes PT-141 valuable for studying CNS-mediated neuromodulation. This product is designated for research use only.




