Product Description

PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide that serves as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors MC1R, MC3R, and MC4R. It is derived from Melanotan II, a naturally occurring hormone, and is primarily utilized to investigate the central nervous system’s role in sexual arousal, motivation, and autonomic function through hypothalamic melanocortin signaling pathways. Unlike other compounds that act peripherally, PT-141 primarily exerts its effects centrally, making it a significant tool for exploring the neurobiology associated with melanocortin receptor activation.

Research Applications

PT-141 has been shown to activate MC3R and MC4R within hypothalamic nuclei, influencing dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways related to arousal and reward mechanisms.
Research has also examined MC1R binding in the context of pigmentation and inflammatory responses, providing additional avenues for study beyond central nervous system effects.
Its resistance to rapid enzymatic degradation compared to linear melanocortin peptides allows for effective in vivo studies of receptor occupancy and downstream signaling pathways.

Central Nervous System and Behavioral Studies

Preclinical studies in rodent models have demonstrated dose-dependent activation of hypothalamic regions, such as the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), which correlate with behavioral and autonomic responses indicative of melanocortin pathway engagement.
PT-141 has been investigated alongside modulators of the oxytocin and dopamine systems to elucidate interactions between melanocortin signaling and neuroendocrine reward circuits.
Research utilizing MC4R knockout models has clarified the behavioral outcomes associated with PT-141, distinguishing between MC4R-dependent and receptor-nonspecific effects.

Autonomic and Cardiovascular Effects

Transient hemodynamic changes, including variations in blood pressure and heart rate, have been observed in preclinical models, making PT-141 relevant for studies in autonomic pharmacology and the cardiovascular implications of melanocortin activity.
The compound has also been linked to nausea-related signaling through area postrema MC receptors, presenting a model for examining emetic pathways in the context of melanocortin receptor agonism.

For research and laboratory use only. Not for human consumption.