Compound Overviews
PT-141 (Bremelanotide): Melanocortin Agonist — Research Overview
PT-141 is a melanocortin-system research peptide with a mechanism that sets it apart from peripheral agents. This overview is for laboratory and educational reference only.
What is PT-141?
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a synthetic analog of α-MSH studied as an agonist at melanocortin receptors, primarily MC4R. Its distinguishing feature in the literature is that it acts centrally on the nervous system.1
The melanocortin system
The melanocortin system comprises five receptors (MC1R–MC5R) and peptides derived from POMC (pro-opiomelanocortin). They regulate a wide range of functions — pigmentation, energy balance, and central signaling. PT-141 is studied specifically at the MC4R node.
A distinct mechanism
PT-141 is studied for working through the central melanocortin pathway, not the peripheral vascular (PDE5 / nitric-oxide) mechanism of vascular agents. That difference in mechanism is the main reason it appears in the research literature as a separate class.
Handling and reconstitution
Supplied as a lyophilized powder; reconstitute with bacteriostatic water for laboratory use and refrigerate (2–8°C). See Understanding Peptide Reconstitution and How to Store Research Peptides.
Verified purity
Renova material is third-party tested with a per-batch COA. See How to Read a Peptide COA and confirm any lot with Verify Your Vial.
References
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Molinoff PB, et al. PT-141: a melanocortin agonist for the treatment of sexual dysfunction. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2003;994:96–102. ↩
Questions
Frequently Asked
What is PT-141?
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a synthetic analog of α-MSH studied as an agonist of melanocortin receptors, primarily MC4R. It acts centrally on the nervous system, a mechanism distinct from peripheral vascular agents.
What is the melanocortin system?
The melanocortin system is a set of receptors (MC1R–MC5R) and signaling peptides derived from POMC that regulate diverse functions including pigmentation, energy balance, and central nervous-system signaling. PT-141 is studied for its action at MC4R.
How is PT-141 different from vascular agents?
PT-141 is studied for acting through the central melanocortin pathway rather than the peripheral vascular (PDE5 / nitric-oxide) mechanism of vascular agents — a different point in the signaling chain.
How is PT-141 supplied?
As a lyophilized powder reconstituted with bacteriostatic water for laboratory use and refrigerated (2–8°C) afterward. Renova material ships with a per-batch third-party COA.
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For Research Use Only · Not For Human Consumption · Renova Wellness™