Melanocortin
What is PT-141?
Bremelanotide: a cyclic peptide studied as an agonist at the central melanocortin receptors MC3R and MC4R.
- Class
- Melanocortin receptor agonist
- Also known as
- Bremelanotide
- Type
- Cyclic heptapeptide
- Research stage
- Clinically studied
01 · Classification
What it is
PT-141 is a cyclic peptide closely related to Melanotan II. It was developed after researchers noticed effects of MT-II that were unrelated to pigmentation.
It acts mainly on melanocortin receptors in the central nervous system.
02 · Mechanisms
What has been studied
- MC4R: its main studied target, located in the hypothalamus.
- MC3R: also activated, and studied for its role in energy homeostasis.
- Central action: unlike PDE5 inhibitors, its studied effects are on brain signalling rather than blood flow.
03 · Evidence
Where the research is
Clinical trials have been published and a pharmaceutical formulation is approved in the US. Research-grade material is a laboratory reagent.
04 · Primary sources
Read the literature
Search the primary research record directly rather than relying on summaries, including this one.
Research use only
Supplied strictly for laboratory and educational research. Not a therapeutic good, not for human or veterinary use, and not evaluated by the TGA. This overview is not medical advice and gives no dosing or administration guidance.
