What Is PT-141? Melanocortin Research Peptide Guide
PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic heptapeptide and melanocortin receptor agonist. It was developed from earlier work on Melanotan II and is studied for its effects on arousal pathways and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This guide covers its structure, the receptors it acts on, and how research vials are handled.
Structure and origin
PT-141 has the sequence Ac-Nle-cyclo(Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys)-OH. It is a cyclic peptide derived from Melanotan II, with modifications that shift receptor selectivity toward MC4R over MC1R.
The cyclisation and N-terminal acetylation improve stability compared with linear melanocortin peptides.
Research directions
PT-141 is studied as a melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonist in animal and cell models of arousal and sexual behaviour. It is also investigated for effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
Unlike PDE5-targeting compounds, PT-141 acts centrally in published models, which is the basis of the comparative research interest.
Handling and storage
PT-141 is supplied lyophilised and reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Because it contains tryptophan, it is relatively light-sensitive; store vials in the dark and protect reconstituted solution from light.
Add diluent slowly down the vial wall, swirl gently, and refrigerate the reconstituted solution at 2-8 °C.
Frequently asked questions
- Is PT-141 the same as Melanotan II?
- No. PT-141 (Bremelanotide) was derived from Melanotan II but has a different structure and receptor selectivity profile, with greater selectivity for MC4R over MC1R.
- What receptor does PT-141 act on?
- It is studied primarily as a melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonist, with some activity at related melanocortin receptors.
- How should PT-141 be stored?
- Lyophilised vials should be refrigerated or frozen in the dark. Reconstituted solution is kept at 2-8 °C and protected from light because it contains tryptophan.
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All information on this page is provided for laboratory and educational reference only. Peptides Lab SA (PTY) Ltd supplies compounds strictly for in-vitro research use. Nothing here is medical advice, a dosing recommendation, or a claim of human safety or efficacy.