Peptide Database

GnRH · Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone

Gonadorelin is a synthetic decapeptide identical to endogenous GnRH. When administered in pulsatile fashion it stimulates LH and FSH release from the pituitary, driving gonadal testosterone and estrogen production. Clinically used for diagnosing hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, treating hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and inducing ovulation. Paradoxically, continuous administration causes receptor downregulation and hormonal suppression — the basis of GnRH agonist therapy in prostate cancer.

Afamelanotide · Scenesse

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic α-MSH analog with higher selectivity for MC1R than MT-II. FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), where it reduces phototoxic pain by enhancing melanin production and UV protection. Research explores broader applications in vitiligo, polymorphous light eruption, and other photosensitive disorders.

Pitocin · the "bonding hormone"

Oxytocin is a 9-amino-acid neuropeptide produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. Beyond its classic roles in parturition and lactation, research demonstrates effects on social bonding, trust, empathy, fear extinction, and autism spectrum disorder. Intranasal oxytocin research has produced mixed results in clinical trials, but it remains one of the most studied peptides in social neuroscience.

Bremelanotide · Vyleesi

PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist, FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, it acts centrally through MC3R and MC4R receptors in the hypothalamus to initiate sexual arousal, making it effective for psychological as well as physiological sexual dysfunction. Research also explores applications in male erectile dysfunction.