PT-141 (Bremelanotide): Melanocortin Receptor Research Guide

What is PT-141?

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide derived from the structure of Melanotan II. It was developed by Palatin Technologies through structural modification of Melanotan II to remove the C-terminal amide responsible for MC1R binding while preserving activity at the central melanocortin receptors MC3R and MC4R. The result is a peptide with substantially reduced melanogenic effect and concentrated activity at the central nervous system melanocortin receptors involved in sexual desire and arousal signalling.

Comparison with Melanotan II

PT-141 and Melanotan II share a common structural origin but differ in their pharmacology. Melanotan II activates MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R with significant pigmentation effects. PT-141 removes the MC1R activity and concentrates at the central receptors. Research models that require central melanocortin activation without confounding melanogenic effects typically select PT-141 over Melanotan II for that reason. See the Melanotan I vs Melanotan II comparison for additional context on the melanocortin receptor family.

Laboratory Handling

PT-141 is supplied as lyophilised powder. Store at -20°C prior to reconstitution. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water by slowly injecting the diluent down the side of the vial and swirling gently. Never shake. Store reconstituted solutions at 2-8°C and use within 4 weeks. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Sourcing in the UK

Peptaro supplies research-grade PT-141 10mg with third-party batch documentation shipped with every order. Same-day UK dispatch on orders placed before 3pm UK time, free tracked UK delivery on every order. For in-vitro laboratory research use only, not for human consumption. Vial sizes and pricing are listed on the PT-141 UK buy page.