PT141

Description

PT-141 – research-grade melanocortin peptide

PT-141, also known as bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide derived from melanocortin peptide research. The acetate form used in the authorised US medicine has the sequence Ac-Nle-cyclo-(Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys-OH). Because of its receptor activity, PT-141 is discussed in scientific research involving melanocortin signalling, central nervous system pathways and neuroendocrine responses.

Within laboratory, preclinical and clinical research contexts, PT-141 is of interest because it activates several melanocortin receptor subtypes. Research has particularly examined MC4 receptor-related signalling within the central nervous system, alongside MC1 receptor activity and associated pigmentation pathways.

Research relevance of PT-141

PT-141 is commonly associated with:

• Investigation of melanocortin receptor signalling
• Studies involving MC4 receptor-related central nervous system pathways
• Experimental analysis of neuroendocrine and behavioural responses
• Research into sexual-desire and arousal-related signalling mechanisms
• Investigation of MC1 receptor activity and pigmentation responses

Scientific research background

Early laboratory and clinical research examined PT-141 as a synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Studies investigated its effects on melanocortin receptors, hypothalamic signalling and physiological responses associated with sexual arousal. Research involving men evaluated erectile-response pathways, while later clinical programmes primarily examined bremelanotide in premenopausal women with acquired, generalised hypoactive sexual desire disorder.

Bremelanotide was authorised by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2019 as the active ingredient in the prescription medicine Vyleesi. Its authorised indication is limited to certain premenopausal women with acquired, generalised hypoactive sexual desire disorder. It is not authorised to enhance sexual performance and is not indicated under its US labelling for men or postmenopausal women. Independently supplied PT-141 research material must not be represented as equivalent to the authorised medicine.

The approved pharmaceutical form non-selectively activates several melanocortin receptor subtypes, with MC1 and MC4 receptor binding considered most relevant at therapeutic exposure levels. However, the precise mechanism through which the authorised medicine affects sexual desire remains unknown.

Clinical studies of the authorised pharmaceutical product reported adverse effects including nausea, flushing, headache, vomiting and injection-site reactions. Official labelling also identifies temporary increases in blood pressure, reductions in heart rate and focal hyperpigmentation as important risks. These findings concern a regulated, characterised prescription formulation and do not establish the safety, identity or suitability of independently supplied research material.

Results depend on the exact peptide sequence, salt form, concentration, formulation, experimental model, research conditions, methodology and measured endpoints. Findings involving an authorised bremelanotide formulation should not be interpreted as confirmed outcomes for independently supplied PT-141.

Scientific reference

Kingsberg SA et al. Bremelanotide for the Treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Two Randomized Phase 3 Trials. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2019.

FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• This substance is supplied strictly for laboratory research purposes.
• It is not a food product.
• It is not a dietary supplement.
• This independently supplied research material is not an authorised medicinal product.
• It is not intended for human or animal consumption.
• It is not intended for injection, nasal administration, oral administration or topical application.
• It must not be represented as equivalent to an authorised bremelanotide medicine.
• The product name does not by itself confirm its identity, sequence, salt form, concentration, purity, sterility or endotoxin status.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Keep the container sealed when not in use.
• Store in the original container only.
• Store according to the conditions stated on the product label or certificate of analysis.
• Protect from moisture, excessive heat and direct sunlight.
• Avoid handling during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

In the event of accidental exposure, irritation, illness or any adverse reaction, seek medical advice.