Topic · Mechanism
Melanocortin system
Family of G-protein-coupled receptors (MC1R–MC5R) with roles in pigmentation, energy homeostasis, steroidogenesis and sexual function. MC4R in the CNS is a target of multiple experimental and approved compounds.
Peptides on this topic
2 peptides researched for this topicBremelanotide
Research other · 5 studies
Synthetic cyclic heptapeptide acting as a non-selective melanocortin-receptor agonist. FDA-approved in 2019 as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in pre-menopausal women.
Relevant observations
- Human RCTIncrease in self-reported sexual-desire scores versus placebo in randomised trials (RECONNECT)
Melanotan II
Research other · 5 studies
Cyclic hepta-peptide and non-selective melanocortin-receptor agonist. Originally researched at the University of Arizona as a sun-protection concept — never approved as a medicine. Widespread on the black market; regulatory warnings for cardiovascular and oncological risks.
Relevant observations
- Human trialIncrease in pigmentation (eumelanin production) was documented in original phase-1 studies in healthy volunteers