Metabolic · Peptide Hormone
Des-acyl ghrelin
Also known as Unacylated Ghrelin
The unacylated form of ghrelin, des-acyl ghrelin does not activate the GHSR1a receptor and is studied for its distinct metabolic roles in laboratory models.
- Length
- 28 amino acids
- Half-life
- Approximately 30 minutes in human plasma
- Mechanism
- It does not bind to or activate the canonical growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR1a) but may act through other, yet-to-be-fully-characterised receptor systems.
- Studied in
- This peptide is used in metabolic research to investigate its independent effects, often in contrast to acylated ghrelin, on processes like glucose homeostasis and adiposity.
About Des-acyl ghrelin
Des-acyl ghrelin is a 28-amino-acid peptide hormone that represents the most abundant form of circulating ghrelin. It is structurally identical to acylated ghrelin but lacks the n-octanoyl group on the serine-3 residue. This absence of acylation is critical, as it prevents the peptide from binding to and activating the GHSR1a receptor.
Despite its inability to stimulate growth hormone release via GHSR1a, des-acyl ghrelin is a subject of intense research for its own biological activities. In vitro and in vivo models are used to explore its potential roles in glucose metabolism, adipogenesis, and cardiovascular function, which appear to be mediated through pathways independent of acylated ghrelin.
Laboratory notes
- Often used as a negative control in experiments studying acylated ghrelin's effects on GHSR1a.
- Highly susceptible to proteolysis; use of protease inhibitors in samples is recommended for accurate quantification.
- Reconstitute in sterile, nuclease-free water or a weak acidic buffer (e.g., 100mM acetic acid) to improve solubility and stability.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Des-acyl ghrelin
What is the key difference between des-acyl ghrelin and ghrelin?
Des-acyl ghrelin lacks the fatty acid (acyl) group on its third amino acid, which is present on acylated ghrelin. This modification prevents it from activating the GHSR1a receptor.
If it doesn't activate the ghrelin receptor, what is it studied for?
It is investigated for biological activities that are independent of the GHSR1a pathway, such as effects on glucose metabolism, cell proliferation, and cardiovascular parameters.
Which form is more common in circulation?
In plasma, des-acyl ghrelin is typically found in much higher concentrations than its acylated counterpart.
Is Des-acyl ghrelin for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.