PT-141
A melanocortin receptor agonist studied for central arousal signaling and sexual behavior in CNS-based preclinical and clinical models.
Overview
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist developed from Melanotan II through modification of its cyclic peptide core. It acts as an agonist at MC3R and MC4R receptors in hypothalamic and limbic brain regions, activating dopaminergic pathways associated with sexual arousal and behavior. PT-141 is the active ingredient in Vyleesi (bremelanotide injection), FDA-approved in 2019 for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. This FDA approval makes PT-141 one of the few research peptides with a US regulatory approval and extensive published human pharmacological and clinical trial data.
Quick Reference
- Structure
- Cyclic heptapeptide, modified Melanotan II core
- Regulatory status
- FDA-approved as Vyleesi (bremelanotide) for HSDD (2019)
- Target receptors
- MC3R, MC4R (melanocortin receptors)
- Mechanism type
- Central CNS action, dopaminergic pathway activation
- Purity standard
- >=98% by HPLC
How It Works
PT-141 activates MC3R and MC4R receptors in the hypothalamus and limbic system, triggering dopaminergic neurotransmitter release in neural circuits associated with sexual motivation and behavior. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors which act on peripheral vascular mechanisms, PT-141 acts centrally on the brain reward and motivation system, which distinguishes it as a CNS-mechanism arousal compound in reproductive biology research.
Research Highlights
Key findings from the published preclinical literature.
FDA Approval for HSDD (Vyleesi)
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) received FDA approval in June 2019 as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women, providing a rigorous clinical anchor for its melanocortin receptor agonist mechanism in sexual function research.
Central vs Peripheral Mechanism Documentation
Clinical research documented that PT-141 acts centrally through brain MC3R/MC4R receptors rather than through peripheral vascular mechanisms, distinguishing it from PDE5 inhibitors and supporting its CNS-mediated arousal signaling classification.
Male Sexual Function Preclinical Models
Rodent studies examined PT-141 in models of sexual behavior, documenting increases in mounting frequency, intromission latency, and erection events attributable to central melanocortin receptor activation in hypothalamic circuits.
Melanocortin Receptor Distribution Research
Research mapping MC3R and MC4R distribution in the CNS has documented their presence in hypothalamic nuclei associated with reproductive behavior regulation, providing neuroanatomical context for PT-141 behavioral effects in research models.
Research Connections
Related research areas, stacks, and comparisons involving this compound.
Research Use Cases
Compound Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
Source This Compound
PT-141 is available from Spartan Peptides at a minimum 98% HPLC-verified purity with batch-specific certificate of analysis. Domestic US supply, same-day dispatch before 2 PM EST. For in-vitro research use only.
All compounds are strictly for in-vitro research use only and not intended for human consumption.