Ipamorelin

Product research information

Ipamorelin is a synthetic peptide with the molecular formula C₃₈H₄₉N₉O₅. It is chemically defined as a pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) and was developed to mimic the ghrelin mimetic activity of GHRP-1. Structural modifications were introduced to enhance its specificity for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor, reducing off-target binding affinities observed in earlier generations of GHRPs.

Scientific studies investigate the interaction between Ipamorelin and the pituitary gland. Upon binding to the GHS-R1a receptor, the peptide initiates a signaling cascade involving phospholipase C and inositol triphosphate. This mechanism leads to the release of growth hormone from somatotrophs. A key area of research focuses on its selectivity profile; unlike GHRP-6 or GHRP-2, Ipamorelin has demonstrated a lack of significant stimulation regarding adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol plasma levels in experimental models.

In addition to pituitary function, researchers explore the effects of Ipamorelin on gastric motility and bone metabolism. Studies in rodent models suggest that the peptide may influence gastric emptying rates and longitudinal bone growth rates. The peptide is also used to study the long-term effects of sustained growth hormone pulsatility on body composition and lean muscle mass accumulation without the side effects associated with non-selective secretagogues.

References

1. Raun, K., et al. (1998). “Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue.” European Journal of Endocrinology, 139(5), 552-561.
2. Johansen, P. B., et al. (1999). “Ipamorelin, a new growth-hormone-releasing peptide, induces longitudinal bone growth in rats.” Growth Hormone & IGF Research, 9(2), 106-113.
3. Svensson, J., et al. (2000). ” The ghrelin mimetic ipamorelin increases body weight and food intake in mice.” Obesity Research, 8, 269.