PL-103

PL-103 is a selective melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) agonist developed by Palatin Technologies. It is a cyclic peptide that exhibits high affinity for the MC4 receptor (Ki = 4.1 nM) and demonstrates significant selectivity (over 100-fold) compared to other melanocortin receptors such as MC1R, MC3R, and MC5R. The drug was primarily investigated for its potential in treating sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and female sexual arousal disorder, by leveraging the role of the central melanocortin system in mediating sexual behavior. While it showed efficacy in early-stage clinical and preclinical models, Palatin Technologies eventually shifted its focus toward other candidates in its melanocortin pipeline, such as bremelanotide (Vyleesi). Additionally, the code name PL-103 has been used by Prolynx to describe a long-acting octreotide prodrug utilizing their proprietary hydrogel-linker technology for the treatment of acromegaly and neuroendocrine tumors.

Other names

PL103PL-103PL 103