PT-141 (Bremelanotide) Research Compound
Research Use Only
This product is intended for laboratory research purposes only. It is not intended for human or veterinary use, food, cosmetic, household, or agricultural applications. Not for human consumption.
Overview
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist. Originally derived from the tanning peptide Melanotan II, PT-141 was developed specifically for its effects on sexual function mediated through central nervous system melanocortin pathways. In 2019, it was FDA-approved as Vyleesi for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women, making it the first peptide drug approved for this indication.
Molecular Characteristics
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C50H68N14O10 |
| Molecular Weight | 1025.18 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 189691-06-3 |
| Sequence | Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OH |
| Structure | Cyclic heptapeptide |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC) |
| Storage | -20°C, protected from light |
Mechanism of Action
PT-141 acts through melanocortin receptor activation in the CNS:
MC4R Activation
- Primary target: Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R)
- Secondary: MC3R and MC1R binding
- Hypothalamic signaling pathway
- Limbic system activation
Central Nervous System Effects
- Not dependent on vascular mechanisms
- Dopaminergic pathway interactions
- Oxytocin system modulation
- Emotional/motivational circuit activation
Distinct Mechanism
- Works at CNS level (not peripheral)
- Different from PDE5 inhibitors
- Effects on desire, not mechanics
- Both sexes responsive in research
Research Applications
Sexual Function Research
- Desire vs. arousal pathways
- Gender-comparative studies
- Melanocortin pharmacology
- CNS sexual response mapping
Melanocortin Receptor Studies
- Receptor binding profiles
- Signal transduction analysis
- MC4R function research
- Receptor subtype selectivity
CNS Pharmacology
- Blood-brain barrier penetration
- Central vs. peripheral effects
- Neuroimaging studies
- Behavioral pharmacology
Gender-Specific Research
- Female HSDD models
- Male erectile function
- Comparative mechanism studies
- Hormonal interaction research
Available Formats
| Size | Format | Catalog Code |
|---|---|---|
| 10mg | Lyophilized | PT-10 |
| 20mg | Lyophilized | PT-20 |
Handling & Storage
- Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C
- Protect from light and moisture
- Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water
- Reconstituted solution stable at 2-8°C for up to 3 weeks
- Contains tryptophan (light-sensitive)
- Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Quality Specifications
- Purity: ≥99% by HPLC
- Appearance: White lyophilized powder
- Solubility: Soluble in water
- Endotoxin: Less than 1 EU/mg
- Certificate of Analysis provided
Regulatory Status
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| USA | FDA-approved (Vyleesi) for premenopausal women with HSDD |
| Research | Available for research purposes |
Comparison with Related Compounds
| Compound | Primary Effect | Receptor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| PT-141 | Sexual function | MC4R > MC3R > MC1R |
| Melanotan II | Tanning + libido | MC1R > MC4R |
| Alpha-MSH | Pigmentation | MC1R primary |
References
- Kingsberg SA, et al. "Bremelanotide for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder." Obstet Gynecol. 2019.
- Clayton AH, et al. "Bremelanotide for female sexual dysfunctions in premenopausal women." Exp Opin Investig Drugs. 2018.
- Pfaus JG, et al. "A review of the role of melanocortins in sexual function." J Sex Med. 2007.