Description
OVERVIEW
PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic derivative of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Initially developed to treat sexual dysfunction in both men and women, it has also been explored for its immune-modulating properties and potential applications in hemorrhagic shock treatment.
PT-141 functions as a melanocortin receptor (MC) agonist, primarily targeting MC-4R and MC-1R, which play roles in sexual arousal, immune function, and vascular regulation. Research suggests that PT-141 can:
- Enhance libido and sexual arousal.
- Improve erectile function in men and increase sexual desire in women.
- Stimulate immune system activity.
- Reduce inflammation and ischemic damage.
Unlike traditional PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis), which work by increasing blood flow, PT-141 acts directly on the central nervous system, making it a potential alternative for individuals with psychogenic sexual dysfunction.
RESEARCH
PT-141 and Sexual Arousal
PT-141’s impact on sexual function is linked to its activation of the MC-4R receptor, found in the central nervous system and associated with sexual behavior and arousal.
- Animal studies showed that MC-4R activation increased mating behavior in both male and female subjects.
- Clinical trials in men with erectile dysfunction (ED)—including those unresponsive to sildenafil (Viagra)—revealed that one-third of participants achieved sufficient erections with PT-141.
- Pre-menopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) experienced:
- Increased frequency of satisfying sexual events.
- Reduced distress related to low sexual desire.
Because PT-141 acts via the brain and not the vascular system, it may be particularly effective for non-vascular causes of sexual dysfunction.
PT-141 and Hemorrhagic Shock
In 2009, PT-141 was investigated for acute hemorrhage treatment, with research suggesting potential emergency medicine applications.
- The MC-1R receptor plays a key role in vascular response and blood flow regulation.
- Studies indicated that PT-141 enhanced vascular integrity and reduced ischemic damage in hemorrhagic shock models.
These findings suggest PT-141 or its derivatives could be explored for trauma and critical care medicine.
PT-141 and Immune System Modulation
PT-141 also targets the MC-1R receptor, which is involved in immune regulation.
- Animal studies suggest PT-141 may exhibit:
- Anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antimicrobial effects, potentially aiding in infection control.
- MC-1R activation has been linked to immune system support in autoimmune conditions and inflammatory diseases.
This research highlights PT-141’s potential beyond sexual health, particularly in immune and inflammatory disorders.
PT-141 and Cancer Research
Recent studies suggest that PT-141 may influence DNA repair mechanisms:
- The MC-1R receptor is involved in DNA damage repair pathways.
- Individuals with MC-1R mutations have a higher risk of melanoma and skin cancer.
Ongoing research aims to determine whether PT-141 could help prevent certain cancers or support DNA repair in high-risk individuals.
STRUCTURE
- Molecular Formula: C₅₀H₆₈N₁₄O₁₀
- Molecular Weight: 1025.182 g/mol
- Amino Acid Sequence: Ac-Nle-Asp(1)-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys(1)
- CAS Registry Number: 189691-06-3
- PubChem Identifier: 9941379
CITATIONS
- Rosen, R. C. et al. Evaluation of the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic effects of subcutaneously administered PT-141, a melanocortin receptor agonist, in healthy male subjects and in patients with an inadequate response to Viagra. International Journal of Impotence Research (2004).
- Wessells, H. et al. PT-141 induces penile erection via brain and spinal melanocortin receptors. Neuroscience (2003).
- Rössler, A.-S. et al. The melanocortin agonist, Melanotan II, enhances proceptive sexual behaviors in female rats. Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior (2006).
- Safarinejad, M. R. & Hosseini, S. Y. Salvage of sildenafil failures with bremelanotide: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Urology (2008).
- Clayton, A. H. et al. Bremelanotide for female sexual dysfunctions in premenopausal women: a randomized, placebo-controlled dose-finding trial. Women’s Health (London, England) (2016).
- Ji, H. et al. The Synthetic Melanocortin (CKPV)2 Exerts Anti-Fungal and Anti-Inflammatory Effects against Candida albicans Vaginitis via Inducing Macrophage M2 Polarization. PLoS ONE (2013).
- Maresca, V. et al. Skin phototype: a new perspective. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research (2015).
- Feller, L. et al. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma of the head and face. Head & Face Medicine (2016).
- McMillan, T. R. et al. Melanotan II, a melanocortin agonist, partially rescues the impaired thermogenic capacity of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide deficient mice. Experimental Physiology (2021).
- Spana, C. et al. Effect of bremelanotide on body weight of obese women: Data from two phase 1 randomized controlled trials. Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism (2022).

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