Ipamorelin

Ipamorelin

Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) and selective ghrelin receptor agonist, developed by Novo Nordisk as part of a programme to identify GHS compounds with improved selectivity profiles. It is structurally related to GHRP-1 and GHRP-2 but is distinguished by its high selectivity for the GH secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a) with minimal off-target activity at cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH release pathways — a key pharmacological advantage that makes it a cleaner research tool for studying GH axis stimulation compared to earlier GHRPs. Ipamorelin has been extensively studied in preclinical research for its effects on GH and IGF-1 secretion, body composition, bone density, and gastrointestinal motility.

Mechanism of Action

Ipamorelin acts as a potent, selective agonist of GHSR-1a, the ghrelin receptor expressed in the hypothalamus, pituitary somatotrophs, and peripheral tissues. GHSR-1a activation stimulates pulsatile GH release from pituitary somatotrophs via Gq/11-mediated phospholipase C activation and intracellular calcium mobilisation, as well as Gi-mediated cAMP modulation. Unlike GHRP-2 and GHRP-6, Ipamorelin does not significantly stimulate cortisol or ACTH release at GH-stimulating doses, and has minimal effect on prolactin secretion, reflecting its high receptor selectivity. The resulting GH pulses drive hepatic IGF-1 production, mediating downstream anabolic, lipolytic, and tissue-remodelling effects. Ipamorelin also acts synergistically with GHRH analogues (such as CJC-1295 or Sermorelin), as the two pathways converge on somatotroph GH release through complementary mechanisms.

Research Applications

• GHSR-1a pharmacology and selective GHS receptor agonism studies
• GH and IGF-1 axis stimulation and somatotropic signalling research
• Body composition, lean mass, and adipose tissue metabolism investigation
• Bone mineral density and skeletal remodelling preclinical models
• Gastrointestinal motility and GHS receptor peripheral function research

Specifications

• Molecular Formula: C₃₈H₄₉N₉O₅
• Molecular Weight: 711.9 g/mol
• CAS Number: 170851-70-4
• Purity: ≥98%
• Form: Lyophilised powder
• Storage: -20°C
• Shelf Life: 24 months

This product is intended for legitimate laboratory and analytical research use only. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumer use.