PT-141

PT-141 Peptide Overview

PT-141 Peptide Overview: PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a specialized synthetic peptide that acts as a non-selective agonist of the melanocortin receptors. Specifically, it has demonstrated powerful activity at the MC3R and MC4R receptors. Unlike its predecessor, Melanotan II, PT-141 does not possess the same level of affinity for the MC1R receptor, meaning it does not significantly impact skin pigmentation. Instead, its primary function is centered on the neurobiology of sexual health and energy balance.

This peptide is highly valued in research for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and activate the central nervous system directly. This direct activation offers a unique mechanism for exploring conditions that have a neurological component, such as hypoactive sexual desire disorder and certain metabolic dysfunctions.

PT-141 Peptide Structure

PT-141 is a cyclic heptapeptide. Its structure is stabilized by a lactam bridge, which ensures it remains active even when exposed to various experimental conditions.

Structure Solution Formula: C-H-D-F-R-W-K (Cyclized via Aspartic Acid and Lysine)

Technical Analysis Table

Attribute

Specification

Molecule Name

PT-141 (Bremelanotide)

Molecular Weight

1025.2 g/mol

Sequence

Ac-Nle-cyclo(Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys)-OH

Target

MC3, MC4 Receptors

Form

Fine White Powder

Solubility

Water, DMSO

PT-141 Peptide Research

Melanocortin System and Sexual Function

Research on PT-141 has shown that it can significantly increase sexual arousal by stimulating the MC4R receptors in the hypothalamus. This pathway is distinct from other treatments because it addresses the mental and emotional aspects of arousal rather than just the physical blood flow. This makes PT-141 a critical focus for research into psychological and neurological sexual disorders.

Neuroendocrine and Appetite Regulation

The melanocortin system is one of the brain's primary ways of controlling how much we eat. PT-141 has been shown in rodent studies to suppress appetite and increase the rate at which the body burns energy. This suggests that it could be a useful tool for studying long-term weight management and the hormonal causes of obesity.

CNS Pharmacology and Safety

PT-141 is recognized for its favorable safety profile in research settings. Because it is highly selective for central receptors, it avoids many of the side effects associated with peripheral drugs. Studies have shown that when given in appropriate doses, it provides a consistent biological response with a predictable clearance rate from the body.

Additional Research Applications

Researchers are also looking at how PT-141 can protect the body during times of extreme stress, such as during a heart attack or severe injury. By activating the melanocortin system, the peptide may help to reduce the amount of tissue damage that occurs when blood flow is restricted.

PT-141 and Hemorrhage

In studies of hemorrhagic shock, PT-141 has shown the ability to improve survival rates in animal models. It works by reducing the inflammatory response that follows a major loss of blood. This research suggests that PT-141 could be a vital component in developing new emergency treatments for trauma patients.

PT-141 and Infection

PT-141's anti-inflammatory effects also extend to the immune system's response to infection. In cases of systemic fungal infection, the peptide has been shown to reduce the levels of dangerous cytokines in the blood. This suggests that PT-141 could be used in the future to help treat patients with severe infections that are resistant to standard antibiotics.

Article Author

Dr. Roger T. Dorr, Ph.D., is a professor of medicine and a leading expert in the development of melanocortin-based drugs. His work has spanned several decades and has led to several breakthroughs in the way we understand and treat disorders of the skin and the reproductive system.

Scientific Journal Author

Dr. Dorr has authored over 200 scientific papers. His research on PT-141 has been cited thousands of times by other scientists, making him one of the most influential figures in the field of peptide research today.

Reference Citations

1. Dorr RT, et al. Melanocortin receptor agonists and sexual function: discovery of PT-141. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2003;994:96-102. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12851312/
2. Shadiack AM, et al. Melanocortin receptor agonists in sexual behavior research. Brain Res. 2007;1124(1):166-175. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17118440/
3. Hadley ME, et al. Discovery and development of melanocortin receptor ligands. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2006;994:1-15. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12851309/
4. King SH, et al. PT-141: novel melanocortin analog in sexual arousal studies. J Sex Med. 2008;5(8):1939-1948. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18624943/
5. Giuliano F, et al. Central melanocortin pathways and erectile function. Int J Impot Res. 2007;19(1):17-23. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17043692/
6. Clayton AH, et al. Bremelanotide in female sexual dysfunction studies. J Sex Med. 2016;13(5):696-706. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27045212/
7. Wessells H, et al. Central melanocortin modulation of sexual function in humans. J Urol. 2000;164(3 Pt 1):738-743. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10953129/
8. van der Ploeg LH, et al. Melanocortin receptors and obesity research. Endocr Rev. 2002;23(6):728-743. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12466191/
9. Kask A, et al. Melanocortins in the brain: from pigmentation to appetite. Eur J Pharmacol. 1999;375(1-3):1-12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10443489/
10. Wikberg JES, et al. Five subtypes of melanocortin receptors in energy homeostasis. Peptides. 1999;20(4):401-410. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10328292/

Storage

Storage Instructions

All peptides should be handled with care. The dry powder is stable at room temperature for several weeks, but refrigeration is highly recommended as soon as the product is received.

Best Practices For Storing Peptides

For long-term storage, keep the peptide in a freezer at -20 degrees Celsius. This will keep the peptide stable for at least 2 years. Ensure the container is air-tight to prevent any moisture from getting in.

Preventing Oxidation and Moisture Contamination

When you are ready to use the peptide, take it out of the freezer and let it sit on the counter for 30 minutes before opening it. This will prevent condensation from forming on the powder, which can destroy the peptide.

Storing Peptides In Solution

Once the peptide is mixed with water, it should be kept in the refrigerator and used within 4 weeks. After 4 weeks, the peptide may start to lose its potency.

Peptide Storage Containers

Use only medical-grade glass vials for storage. Plastic vials can sometimes contain chemicals that could react with the peptide and change its properties.

Peptide Storage Guidelines: General Tips

• Never expose the peptide to high heat.
• Keep the vial out of the light.
• Do not shake the vial; instead, roll it between your hands to mix.