What is PT-141?

PT-141 is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide with the sequence Ac–Nle–cyclo[Asp–His–D-Phe–Arg–Trp–Lys]–OH. It represents a stable analogue of the α-melanotropin (α-MSH) fragment, featuring a lactam bridge introduced between the aspartic acid and lysine residues, as well as amino acid substitutions that enhance stability. This compound was developed within the framework of research into melanocortin receptor ligands. Due to its precisely defined cyclic structure and good solubility in aqueous environments, PT-141 has become a useful model for research into melanocortin receptor-dependent peptide signalling.

In experimental studies, PT-141 has been used to analyse mechanisms related to the activation of MC1R, MC3R and MC4R receptors, the modulation of cAMP-dependent signalling pathways and cellular responses in in vitro and in vivo models. Its effect on the expression of selected genes regulated by melanocortin pathways and on neuronal signalling processes under experimental conditions has been described. Attention has been drawn to its interactions with G-protein-coupled receptors and its indirect effect on signalling homeostasis in preclinical models.

Due to its unequivocally defined chemical structure and high reproducibility of observed biological effects in experimental models, PT-141 is used as a research tool in molecular biology, neurochemistry, and experimental pharmacology. In scientific literature, it is also utilised as a reference melanocortin receptor ligand for evaluating signalling processes and validating analytical methods used in the study of cyclic bioactive peptides. The preparation is intended exclusively for research work.

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Products in this category are not medicines, foodstuffs or dietary supplements. The products are classified as chemical reagents/reference materials authorised for marketing within the European Union and may be used exclusively for laboratory scientific research.