Introduction
Growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) are a class of peptides that stimulate the release of growth hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland. They represent a major area of research interest in endocrinology, metabolic science, and ageing biology.
For research and laboratory use only. Not intended for human or veterinary administration.
The GH Axis
Growth hormone release is regulated by two primary hypothalamic hormones: GHRH, which stimulates GH secretion, and somatostatin, which inhibits it. GH secretagogues act either by mimicking GHRH, by activating the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a), or both simultaneously.
GHRH Analogues
Sermorelin
A synthetic analogue of the first 29 amino acids of endogenous GHRH. Binds to the GHRH receptor on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating GH synthesis and release in a physiological, pulsatile manner. Used in research into pituitary function, GH deficiency models, and age-related GH decline.
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
A modified GHRH analogue with a half-life of ~30 minutes. Produces a more physiological GH pulse. Commonly studied in combination with GHRP peptides for synergistic GH release.
CJC-1295 (With DAC)
The DAC modification enables albumin binding, extending half-life to ~6–8 days. Produces sustained GH elevation rather than pulsatile release — useful for research into chronic GH stimulation models.
Tesamorelin
A stabilised GHRH analogue studied extensively in visceral adiposity and lipodystrophy models. Research has also explored effects on cognitive function and IGF-1 levels.
Ghrelin Receptor Agonists (GHRPs)
GHRP-2
A potent agonist at the GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor). Produces strong GH release and has been studied for effects on appetite regulation, GH axis function, and cardioprotection in preclinical models.
GHRP-6
Similar mechanism to GHRP-2 but with a more pronounced appetite-stimulating effect via hypothalamic NPY neurons. Used in research models of cachexia, GH deficiency, and gastric motility.
Hexarelin
One of the most potent synthetic GHRPs. Studied for GH-releasing properties as well as direct cardioprotective effects mediated through CD36 receptor binding, independent of GH release.
Ipamorelin
A highly selective GHS-R1a agonist with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin — preferred for research requiring clean GH stimulation without confounding hormonal effects. Often combined with CJC-1295 (No DAC).
Combined Research Protocols
A common approach combines a GHRH analogue (e.g. CJC-1295 No DAC) with a GHRP (e.g. Ipamorelin) to exploit synergistic GH release. The two classes act on different receptors and their combined effect is significantly greater than either alone.
MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
A non-peptide GHS-R1a agonist with oral bioavailability. Produces sustained GH and IGF-1 elevation. Used in research models of muscle wasting, bone density, sleep architecture, and metabolic function.
Storage and Handling
Store lyophilised GH peptides at −20°C. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 28 days. Avoid agitation and repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
All products supplied by Vanta Labs are intended strictly for laboratory and research purposes.