Sermorelin 5mg
Sermorelin Peptide
Overview
Sermorelin is a synthetic 29–amino acid peptide corresponding to the biologically active fragment of growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH). Structurally defined as GHRH (1–29)-amide, it represents the shortest known synthetic peptide that may retain functional activity at GHRH receptors.
Due to its close structural and functional similarity to endogenous GHRH, Sermorelin has been widely studied in growth hormone deficiency and endocrine regulation research models.
Historical Background
Initial investigations into Sermorelin began in the early 1980s, when the peptide—then classified as growth hormone–releasing factor (GHRF 1–29) amide—was examined in rodent models. Studies involving both conscious and anesthetized rats reported stimulation of pituitary activity and enhanced growth responses following exogenous administration.
These findings led to broader interest in Sermorelin and related analogs as experimental tools for exploring growth hormone regulation.
Mechanism of Action
Sermorelin is believed to bind selectively to GHRH receptors located on pituitary somatotroph cells. Upon receptor interaction, it is hypothesized to initiate intracellular signaling pathways that include:
1. Activation of adenylate cyclase
2. Conversion of ATP to cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)
3. Elevation of intracellular cAMP levels
4. Activation of protein kinase A (PKA)
5. Promotion of pulsatile secretion of human growth hormone (hGH)
Released hGH may subsequently stimulate the synthesis of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Despite its shortened amino acid sequence relative to native GHRH, Sermorelin is thought to preserve the core biological functionality of the parent hormone. Its estimated plasma half-life is approximately 11–12 minutes.
Endocrine Selectivity
Due to its receptor specificity, Sermorelin is suggested to have minimal impact on other endocrine markers. Research indicates no significant alterations in:
1. Prolactin
2. Insulin
3. Cortisol
4. Blood glucose
5. Thyroid hormones
This selective activity has contributed to its continued investigation in endocrine research settings.
Chemical Characteristics
1. Molecular Formula: C₁₄₉H₂₄₆N₄₄O₄₂S
2. Molecular Weight: 3357.93 g/mol
3. Alternative Name: GRF 1-29
Research Applications and Observations
Growth Velocity Models
In experimental models of idiopathic growth hormone deficiency, sustained exposure to Sermorelin has been associated with increased growth velocity and height gain. Some studies report observable effects within 12 months, with maintained responses during continued exposure.
Anabolic Research
Preliminary research suggests that Sermorelin may significantly elevate average growth hormone levels for extended periods. In a 16-week study, investigators reported:
1. Marked increases in circulating growth hormone
2. Elevation of IGF-1 levels
3. An average increase in lean body mass of approximately 1.26 kg
4. No statistically significant change in fat mass
These effects are hypothesized to result from enhanced GH-IGF-1 signaling.
Lipodystrophy Research
In a controlled study involving HIV-positive subjects with lipodystrophy, participants exposed to Sermorelin demonstrated:
1. Significantly increased growth hormone levels compared to placebo
2. Elevated IGF-1 concentrations
3. Increased lean body mass
4. Reduced abdominal visceral fat and trunk-to-limb fat ratio
No significant changes in glucose or insulin levels were reported.
Cognitive Function Studies
Research examining age-related declines in growth hormone secretion has explored potential correlations with cognitive performance. In studies involving elderly subjects, Sermorelin exposure was associated with improved outcomes on components of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), including verbal and visual processing measures.
Tumor Cell Research
In a large-scale in vitro screening study involving glioma cell lines, Sermorelin exhibited a high sensitivity response score relative to other compounds. Researchers proposed that this effect may be related to modulation of tumor cell cycle activity, potentially influencing proliferation dynamics.
Hypogonadism-Related Research
Early investigations explored whether Sermorelin could influence gonadotropic hormone release. Experimental findings suggested stimulation of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which may indirectly affect testosterone production.
Subsequent studies in younger and older male subjects reported increases in testosterone levels, although these changes were not consistently statistically significant. Growth hormone secretion was observed to peak predominantly during nighttime periods.
