Summary
PT-141 (research code; also known as bremelanotide) is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) with selectivity at the MC3R and MC4R melanocortin receptor subtypes. It is studied in melanocortin-system pharmacology literature, particularly in relation to central-nervous-system receptor work.
Overview
PT-141 was developed from Melanotan II as a structurally modified analog with a different receptor-selectivity profile. Its preference for the MC3R and MC4R subtypes distinguishes it from broader-spectrum melanocortin agonists such as Melanotan II itself.
Research Background
PT-141 was developed by Palatin Technologies in the early 2000s through structure-activity work on melanocortin analogs. Pfaus, Diamond, and colleagues have published on its central-nervous-system pharmacology in preclinical model systems.
Mechanisms Studied
Mechanistic interest centers on its selective agonist activity at MC3R and MC4R, the downstream cAMP signaling that follows receptor activation, and central-nervous-system pathways that involve melanocortin receptors.
Published Research Summary
Diamond et al. (2004) describe the early pharmacology of PT-141. Pfaus et al. (2007) examine its central-nervous-system pharmacology in preclinical models. Reviews of melanocortin-system pharmacology consistently position PT-141 alongside Melanotan II as a key reference compound.
Quality & Verification
For research compounds, lot-level documentation is the starting point for any analytical work. Researchers commonly examine batch-specific Certificates of Analysis, reversed-phase HPLC purity readouts, mass-spectrometry confirmation of molecular weight, and lot identification to evaluate compound identity, purity, and consistency before downstream experiments.
References & Published Research
- Diamond LE et al. — Co-administration of PT-141 with sildenafil produces greater erectile response than either drug alone in preclinical models
- Pfaus JG et al. — Selective facilitation of sexual solicitation in the female rat by a melanocortin receptor agonist
- Hadley ME, Dorr RT — Melanocortin peptide therapeutics review