Selective GH Release
Ipamorelin has been characterized as one of the most selective GHRPs studied, with research documenting potent GH release with minimal co-stimulation of cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH in rodent models.
Overview
What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP) and ghrelin receptor agonist. Unlike other GHRPs, research has characterized Ipamorelin as highly selective for GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin in animal models. It is widely studied in combination with GHRH analogues for its synergistic effects on GH pulse amplitude.
Ipamorelin (Ipamorelin Acetate) is supplied strictly as a reference material for in vitro and preclinical investigation. All characterization data described here is drawn from peer-reviewed literature and laboratory analysis; nothing herein constitutes a claim of clinical effect in humans.
Investigational Scope
Documented Research Areas
The following domains summarize directions explored across published studies and laboratory models. Each reflects observations reported in rodent models, in vitro systems, or the peer-reviewed record.
GHRH Synergy Research
Ipamorelin is frequently co-administered with CJC-1295 in animal research, with studies observing synergistic increases in GH pulse amplitude compared to either compound alone.
Body Composition Models
Studies in rodent models have examined downstream effects of Ipamorelin-stimulated GH release on lean mass, fat metabolism, and IGF-1 levels over extended research periods.
Bone Density Research
Research in ovariectomized rat models has examined Ipamorelin's effects on bone mineral density and bone formation markers, with observed increases in trabecular bone parameters.
Proposed Mechanism
Mechanistic Pathway
Mechanistic steps below are hypothesized from in vitro assays and animal-model data reported in the literature. They describe biochemical interactions observed under controlled experimental conditions.
-
1
Ghrelin Receptor Agonism
Ipamorelin activates the GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating GH secretion through a pathway distinct from but synergistic with the GHRH receptor pathway.
-
2
Selective Pituitary Action
Unlike other GHRPs, Ipamorelin demonstrates high selectivity for GH release without significantly activating adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or cortisol secretion pathways in animal studies.
-
3
cAMP & Calcium Signaling
GHS-R1a activation by Ipamorelin increases intracellular calcium and cAMP, both of which drive GH exocytosis from secretory granules in pituitary somatotroph cells.
-
4
IGF-1 Downstream Effects
GH secreted in response to Ipamorelin stimulates hepatic IGF-1 production in animal models, with observed downstream effects on protein synthesis and metabolic regulation markers.
Technical Data
Molecular Specifications
| Amino Acid Sequence | Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂ |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 711.9 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C₃₈H₄₉N₉O₅ |
| CAS Number | 170851-70-4 |
| Storage | −20°C long-term, 4°C short-term up to 4 weeks |
References
Selected Literature
The following peer-reviewed references informed the research summaries on this page. Citations are provided for scientific context only.
- Raun K, et al. (1998). Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue. European Journal of Endocrinology, 139(5), 552–561.
- Johansen PB, et al. (1999). Ipamorelin, a new growth-hormone-releasing peptide, induces longitudinal bone growth in rats. Growth Hormone & IGF Research, 9(2), 106–113.
- Svensson J, et al. (2000). Two-month treatment of obese subjects with the oral growth hormone (GH) secretagogue MK-677 increases GH secretion, fat-free mass, and energy expenditure. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 83(2), 362–369.
- Bowers CY. (2001). Unnatural growth hormone-releasing peptide begets natural ghrelin. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 86(4), 1464–1469.
- Nass R, et al. (2008). Effects of an oral ghrelin mimetic on body composition and clinical outcomes in healthy older adults. Annals of Internal Medicine, 149(9), 601–611.
Research Disclaimer
This product is intended strictly for laboratory research purposes only. It is not a drug, food, cosmetic, or dietary supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not for human or animal consumption. All information presented is derived from published scientific literature and is provided for educational reference only. By purchasing, the buyer affirms they are a qualified researcher or institution and assume full responsibility for the safe and lawful handling of this material.