Melanocortin signalling
Melanocortin peptides and analogues activate members of the MC1R–MC5R receptor family, influencing pigmentation, energy balance and central pathways relevant to sexual desire.
Biological pathway
Melanocortin receptor activation → G-protein signalling → cAMP-dependent effects in target cells and central neural circuits.
Evidence summary
Bremelanotide is an approved melanocortin receptor agonist for a restricted HSDD indication in the United States, although the precise mechanism by which it improves sexual desire is not established.
Limitations
Peptides linked to this mechanism
Melanotan Ii is an investigational peptide, analogue or research construct with evidence ranging from mechanistic studies to limited human trials.
PT-141 is a regulated peptide medicine with established evidence in defined indications.
A cosmetic peptide marketed for tanning, photoprotection and hair repigmentation through alpha-MSH-related melanogenesis. Independent human evidence is sparse.