PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of the naturally occurring hormone Alpha-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH). Unlike traditional PDE5 inhibitors which act on the vascular system, PT-141 is investigated for its mechanism of action within the Central Nervous System (CNS). Preclinical research suggests it acts as a potent non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors, specifically MC3R and MC4R in the hypothalamus. These receptors are critical modulators of sexual behaviour and arousal signaling. Supplied as a lyophilized powder strictly for laboratory research.

Area of Interest

Research on PT-141 has focused on central neurobiological pathways:

• Melanocortin Signaling (MC4R): Investigated for its ability to bind to MC4R receptors in the brain, triggering a cascade of neural signals associated with physiological arousal.
• Sexual Dysfunction Models: Extensively studied in animal models of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) and Erectile Dysfunction (ED) to understand the difference between central (brain) vs. peripheral (blood flow) stimulation.
• Hemorrhagic Shock: Early research explored potential utility in circulatory shock due to melanocortin receptor influence on blood pressure regulation.
• Inflammatory Modulation: Like other alpha-MSH analogues, it is researched for potential downstream anti-inflammatory effects via the melanocortin system.

These properties make PT-141 a primary reagent for laboratories investigating neurobiology, receptor affinity, and the physiological mechanics of arousal.

Technical Information

• Chemical Name: Bremelanotide (PT-141)
• Synonyms: PT141, Cyclo-[Nle4, Asp5, D-Phe7, Lys10]-alpha-MSH
• Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₈N₁₄O₁₀
• Molecular Weight: 1025.2 g/mol
• Sequence: Ac-Nle-Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys-OH (Cyclic lactam bridge)
• CAS Number: 189691-06-3
• Peptide Classification: Melanocortin Receptor Agonist / Alpha-MSH Analogue

Storage Guidelines

• Lyophilized peptide is stable at room temperature for several weeks.
• For long-term storage, keep at −20°C or below.

• Once reconstituted, store at 2–8 °C. Effective use depends on the solution used.

Solubility

PT-141 is soluble in sterile water, saline, or bacteriostatic water. It reconstitutes easily without acidic buffers.

References

• Pfaus, J. G., et al. (2004). “Selective facilitation of sexual solicitation in the female rat by a melanocortin receptor agonist.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 101(27), 10201–10204. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.0400491101
• Molinoff, P. B., et al. (2003). “PT-141: A melanocortin agonist for the treatment of sexual dysfunction.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 994(1), 96–102. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.2003.tb03167.x
• Diamond, L. E., et al. (2004). “Co-administration of low doses of intranasal PT-141, a melanocortin receptor agonist, and sildenafil causes synergistic facilitation of erectile response in rats.” Urology, 65(4), 755-759. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2004.10.053

Certificate of Analysis (COA): Available here