Description
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide that functions as a selective agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) and a ghrelin mimetic. It was the first GHS developed to display a high degree of specificity for growth hormone (GH) release, distinct from other secretagogues like GHRP-6 or GHRP-2 by its lack of significant impact on ACTH, cortisol, or prolactin levels in experimental models.
In laboratory settings, Ipamorelin is widely utilized to investigate the regulation of body composition, particularly in models of hypogonadism. Its unique selectivity profile makes it a critical tool for researchers aiming to isolate the downstream effects of GH signaling—such as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) production—without the confounding variables of the stress hormone cascade.
Biochemical Characteristics
Chemically, Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) designed for high receptor affinity and specificity.
- Sequence/Structure: Synthetic Pentapeptide.
- Selectivity: Exhibits a potency and efficacy for GH release similar to GHRP-6 but is devoid of the side effects related to ACTH and cortisol stimulation.
- Stability: Supplied as a lyophilized salt to ensure long-term stability and prevent hydrolytic degradation during storage.
- Mechanism: Mimics the action of ghrelin at the GHS-R1a receptor to trigger pituitary GH release.
Chemical Properties
| Property |
Specification |
| Molecule Name |
Ipamorelin |
| Synonyms |
NNC 26-0161 |
| Molecular Formula |
C₃₈H₄₉N₉O₅ |
| Molecular Weight |
711.86 g/mol |
| Form |
Lyophilized Powder |
| Purity |
≥99% (Verified via HPLC) |
| Solubility |
Soluble in water and organic solvents (refer to SDS) |
| Documentation |
COA available per lot; SDS available |
Ipamorelin is strictly for laboratory research and is commonly employed in the following investigational areas:
Bone Health and Mineralization
Ipamorelin is extensively studied for its impact on skeletal integrity. In adult female rat models, administration of Ipamorelin has been shown to increase bone mineral content (BMC). Furthermore, it is used to investigate countermeasures against catabolic states; research indicates it can counteract the decrease in bone formation induced by glucocorticoid treatment.
Gastric Motility and Ileus
Functioning as a ghrelin mimetic, Ipamorelin is used to study gastrointestinal contractility. In rodent models of postoperative ileus, researchers utilize this peptide to assess its efficacy in accelerating gastric emptying and ameliorating gastric dysmotility.
Body Composition and Metabolism
Researchers employ Ipamorelin to explore the management of body composition, particularly in the context of hypogonadism where muscle retention and adipose tissue regulation are primary endpoints.
Pathway / Mechanistic Context
The primary mechanism of action for Ipamorelin in research settings is the selective agonism of the GHS-R1a.
- Receptor Activation: Ipamorelin binds to the GHS-R1a in the pituitary, mimicking ghrelin.
- GH Release: This binding triggers a signaling cascade that results in the release of stored Growth Hormone.
- Selectivity Profile: Unlike other GHS compounds, Ipamorelin does not activate the pathways responsible for releasing ACTH or cortisol, thereby avoiding the “stress response” often seen with less selective secretagogues.
Preclinical Research Summary
Published preclinical literature documents investigations of Ipamorelin across multiple experimental models:
- Bone Density: Studies in rats demonstrate that Ipamorelin treatment significantly increases bone mineral content (BMC) and increases the linearized bone growth rate.
- Glucocorticoid Counteraction: Research utilizing corticosteroid-treated rats indicates that Ipamorelin can fully reverse the steroid-induced reduction in bone formation rates.
- Gastrointestinal Recovery: In models of postoperative ileus, Ipamorelin administration was observed to reverse the delay in gastric emptying, suggesting a potent prokinetic effect mediated by GHS receptors.
Form & Analytical Testing
This material is produced via robust solid-phase peptide synthesis and supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder.
- Lyophilization: Removes water content under vacuum to maintain peptide integrity and extend shelf-life.
- Identity Verification: Each lot undergoes Mass Spectrometry (MS) to confirm molecular weight and identity.
- Purity Verification: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is performed to ensure the product meets the ≥99% purity standard required for reproducible research data.
Referenced Citations
References are provided for informational purposes only and are not clinical claims.
- Raun, K., et al. (1998). Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue. Oxford University Press (OUP). https://doi.org/10.1530/eje.0.1390552
- Svensson, J., et al. (2000). The GH secretagogues ipamorelin and GH-releasing peptide-6 increase bone mineral content in adult female rats. Bioscientifica. https://doi.org/10.1677/joe.0.1650569
- Andersen, N. B., et al. (2001). The growth hormone secretagogue ipamorelin counteracts glucocorticoid-induced decrease in bone formation of adult rats. Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1054/ghir.2001.0239
- Kim, S.-H., & Park, M.-J. (2017). Effects of growth hormone on glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in human. Korean Society of Pediatric Endocrinology. https://doi.org/10.6065/apem.2017.22.3.145
- Sinha, D. K., et al. (2020). Beyond the androgen receptor: the role of growth hormone secretagogues in the modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males. AME Publishing Company. https://doi.org/10.21037/tau.2019.11.30
- Greenwood-Van Meerveld, B., et al. (2012). Efficacy of ipamorelin, a ghrelin mimetic, on gastric dysmotility in a rodent model of postoperative ileus. Informa UK Limited. https://doi.org/10.2147/jep.s35396
RESEARCH USE ONLY
This product is intended strictly for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or veterinary use. It is not intended for diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. All purchases are subject to our Terms of Service and Purity Guarantee.
No COAs available for this product.
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