High-purity PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is available for specialized laboratory research evaluating central melanocortin receptor signaling and neuroendocrine pathways. PX1 Research supplies USA-manufactured PT-141 engineered to analytical standards exceeding 99% purity, backed by independent mass spectrometry and HPLC verification per lot.
High-purity PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is available for specialized laboratory research evaluating central melanocortin receptor signaling and neuroendocrine pathways. PX1 Research supplies USA-manufactured PT-141 engineered to analytical standards exceeding 99% purity, backed by independent mass spectrometry and HPLC verification per lot.
When purchasing PT-141 peptide for sale for laboratory applications, principal investigators require rigorous chemical verification, precise molecular weight validation, and ultra-low endotoxin thresholds. PT-141, chemically designated as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). In preclinical research environments, researchers utilize this compound to map central nervous system signaling cascades, specifically focusing on melanocortin receptor subtypes within the hypothalamus.
To ensure reproducible assay results, academic and private research institutions must source reference-grade compounds free of residual TFA (trifluoroacetic acid), heavy metals, or synthesis byproducts. PX1 Research provides synthetic PT-141 manufactured under strict quality systems in US-based facilities, giving researchers access to documented lot-to-lot consistency supported by comprehensive analytical testing.
PT-141 is a synthetic derivative of the peptide hormone Melanotan II, structurally modified by the removal of the C-terminal amide group and optimized for select receptor binding kinetics. Its chemical sequence is Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OH, featuring a cyclic structure constrained by a lactam bridge between the Asp and Lys side chains. This conformational restriction stabilizes the peptide against rapid enzymatic degradation by circulating peptidases in vitro and in vivo.
The molecular formula of PT-141 is C50H68N14O10, with a calculated monoisotopic mass of approximately 1024.51 g/mol. The cyclic lactam bridge preserves structural rigidity, allowing high-affinity interaction with specific G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). Understanding these biophysical dynamics is essential when configuring binding affinity assays, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) measurements, or radioligand binding studies in vitro.
Unlike classic peripheral vasoactive compounds, PT-141 functions predominantly within the central nervous system as a potent agonist at melanocortin receptors, primarily MC3R and MC4R. In vitro binding studies indicate that Bremelanotide exhibits high nanomolar affinity for both human MC3R and MC4R, with secondary interaction observed at MC1R and minimal activity at MC5R.
Activation of central MC4R pathways in the medial preoptic area (mPOA) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus initiates intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) accumulation. Preclinical models indicate that this signal transduction downstream triggers dopaminergic neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbens, modulating neuroendocrine responses related to sexual-health pathways without directly altering peripheral vascular tone via nitric oxide pathways.
In animal models, including rodent and non-human primate studies, administration of PT-141 has been extensively evaluated to map central appetitive and consummatory behaviors. Data published in peer-reviewed neuroscience literature demonstrate that central and systemic administration of Bremelanotide induces dose-dependent activation of c-Fos expression within hypothalamic nuclei, signaling robust neuronal excitation.
Research teams investigate PT-141 within preclinical frameworks for its role in modulating appetitive conditioning, motivation pathways, and autonomic reflex arcs linked to sexual-health pathways. Because its mechanism bypasses peripheral vascular mechanisms, PT-141 serves as a foundational tool for dissecting central neurochemical circuits independent of local hemodynamic interventions. Laboratory studies indexed in our preclinical research library further outline how MC4R signaling modulates these intricate neuroendocrine networks.
When designing comparative research protocols, evaluating the receptor binding selectivity of various melanocortin receptor agonists is critical. While PT-141 was synthetically optimized to target central MC3R and MC4R receptors responsible for behavioral and neuroendocrine signaling, parent compounds such as Melanotan II exhibit broader, non-selective binding across MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. This non-selective profile frequently induces significant peripheral melanogenesis in preclinical models due to intense MC1R stimulation in epidermal melanocytes.
In contrast, short-chain signaling peptides like BPC-157 operate through entirely distinct angiogenic and cellular repair pathways without interacting with the central melanocortin system. For laboratories focused strictly on central neuroendocrine circuits, PT-141 provides a refined pharmacological profile compared to unselective α-MSH analogs, allowing investigators to isolate hypothalamic GPCR signaling with minimal peripheral cross-reactivity.
The scientific validity of any preclinical experiment depends entirely on compound purity and chemical integrity. Substandard research peptides contaminated with deletion sequences or heavy metal residues can distort receptor binding kinetics and generate artifactual cell culture responses. PX1 Research enforces strict quality assurance protocols for every lot of PT-141 peptide.
Every production batch undergoes dual-stage analytical testing comprising Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) to establish purity (guaranteed ≥99%) and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS) to verify exact molecular weight. Furthermore, our products undergo quantitative chromogenic LAL assays to ensure endotoxin levels remain strictly below standard limits (<0.01 EU/mg). Full analytical reports are accessible via our mass spectrometry verification documentation hub.
To preserve the structural integrity of synthetic PT-141 during laboratory preparation, researchers must follow precise reconstitution protocols. Lyophilized peptide cakes should be brought to room temperature inside a desiccated environment prior to opening the vial to avoid condensation uptake. Reconstitution should be performed using sterile Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol) or sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4) depending on assay requirements.
When introducing diluent, the liquid should be directed gently along the glass wall of the vial rather than sprayed directly onto the lyophilized powder. The vial should be gently swirled until complete dissolution is observed; vigorous mechanical vortexing must be avoided as shear stress can disrupt delicate peptide secondary structures. Laboratory personnel must execute all fluid transfers under a laminar flow hood using aseptic techniques.
Lyophilized PT-141 possesses high thermal stability when stored under proper environmental conditions. In its dry, freeze-dried state, the peptide remains stable at -20°C for up to 24 months. For long-term archival storage, maintaining vials at -80°C preserves chemical stability and prevents minor hydrolysis over multi-year periods.
Once reconstituted into aqueous solution, aliquots should be used immediately or stored at 2°C to 8°C for short-term experimentation (not exceeding 30 days). For extended liquid protocols, reconstituted solutions should be divided into single-use working aliquots and frozen at -20°C or -80°C to eliminate repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which degrade peptide bonds and lead to aggregation. Review our complete catalog of all research peptides for standardized storage and handling parameters.
PX1 Research is dedicated to supplying the scientific community with reference-grade research chemicals. Operating out of state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in California and Arizona, we maintain strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines and ISO 17025 laboratory standards. Every order ships same-day Monday through Friday, ensuring minimal transit degradation.
Principal investigators, academic institutions, and corporate laboratories requiring bulk volumes or customized lot reservations can establish institutional accounts through our institutional wholesale accounts portal. Partnering with PX1 Research ensures fully traceable, third-party-certified compounds that safeguard the integrity and reproducibility of your preclinical research.
What is PT-141 (Bremelanotide) used for in research?
PT-141 is a synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist studied in preclinical research to investigate central nervous system signaling, specifically central MC3R and MC4R activation pathways linked to neuroendocrine and behavioral responses.
Is PT-141 supplied by PX1 Research intended for human use?
No. All products sold by PX1 Research, including PT-141, are strictly for laboratory research, in vitro assays, and preclinical animal studies. They are not for human consumption, medical, or diagnostic use.
How does PX1 Research verify the purity of PT-141?
PX1 Research verifies every lot using Reverse-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) for purity analysis (≥99%) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) to confirm precise molecular mass. Certificates of Analysis (COAs) are provided with every batch.
What are the endotoxin limits for PX1 Research peptides?
Our research peptides undergo rigorous LAL endotoxin testing to guarantee levels strictly below standard laboratory thresholds, typically maintaining <0.01 EU/mg to prevent endotoxin-induced cellular toxicity in assays.
What receptors does PT-141 target?
PT-141 acts primarily as an agonist at central melanocortin-3 (MC3R) and melanocortin-4 (MC4R) receptors, with lesser affinity for MC1R and minimal interaction at MC5R.
How should lyophilized PT-141 be stored upon delivery?
Lyophilized PT-141 should be stored at -20°C for standard short-to-medium storage (up to 24 months) or at -80°C for long-term preservation. Keep vials away from light and humidity.
What diluent should be used to reconstitute PT-141 for laboratory use?
Reconstitution is typically performed using sterile Bacteriostatic Water or sterile Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS, pH 7.4), depending on the specific requirements of the planned assay.
How does PT-141 differ from Melanotan II?
While both target melanocortin receptors, PT-141 lacks the C-terminal amide group found in Melanotan II, resulting in selective central MC3R/MC4R binding and significantly reduced peripheral MC1R melanogenic activity.
All products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only. Not for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment or consumption. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.