Growth Hormone · Synthetic heptapeptide
GHRP-1
Also known as Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 1
GHRP-1 is a synthetic heptapeptide and GHS-R1a agonist, investigated in lab models to explore the fundamentals of growth hormone secretion.
- Length
- 7 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- Functions as an agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a), initiating a signalling cascade that results in the release of growth hormone.
- Studied in
- Employed as a foundational research tool to understand the non-GHRH pathways of pituitary somatotroph stimulation.
About GHRP-1
GHRP-1 is a pioneering synthetic peptide with the sequence Ala-His-D-β-Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2. It was one of the first compounds identified to stimulate growth hormone release through a mechanism independent of the GHRH receptor. Its discovery was instrumental in the later identification of the endogenous GHS-R1a ligand, ghrelin.
In a laboratory setting, GHRP-1 is primarily of historical and academic interest for comparative studies against more stable analogues like GHRP-2, GHRP-6, and hexarelin. Its use allows researchers to probe the structural requirements for GHS-R1a activation. The compound serves as a reference for investigating the basic pharmacology of the ghrelin system.
Laboratory notes
- GHRP-1 has relatively low stability in plasma and solution compared to its later-generation analogues.
- For in vitro work, protease inhibitors may be necessary in the culture medium to prevent rapid degradation.
- Store lyophilised powder at -20°C for long-term stability. Reconstituted solutions are best used immediately.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about GHRP-1
How does GHRP-1 differ from GHRP-6?
GHRP-1 is a heptapeptide, while GHRP-6 is a hexapeptide. GHRP-6 was developed later and exhibits different potency and selectivity profiles at the GHS-R1a receptor.
What is the significance of GHRP-1 in research history?
Its discovery demonstrated that growth hormone release could be stimulated by synthetic peptides acting on a novel receptor, which ultimately led to the discovery of the ghrelin receptor system.
Is GHRP-1 orally active?
No, like most simple peptides, it has very low oral bioavailability and requires direct application in in-vitro systems or appropriate administration in animal models.
Is GHRP-1 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.