CJC-1295
CJC-1295 — A synthetic peptide analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) with 30 amino acids, modified for extended half-life in research applications.
What Is CJC-1295?
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) consisting of 29 amino acids (the first 29 residues of native GHRH with four amino acid substitutions). Two forms exist in research: CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) and CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod-GRF).
The DAC version includes a reactive lysine residue that covalently binds to serum albumin after administration, dramatically extending the peptide's half-life from minutes to approximately 8 days in animal studies. The non-DAC version has a half-life of approximately 30 minutes.
Mechanism of Action
CJC-1295 binds to the GHRH receptor (GHRHR) on anterior pituitary somatotroph cells, activating adenylyl cyclase through a Gs-protein coupled mechanism. This increases intracellular cAMP, which triggers growth hormone synthesis and secretion. Unlike ipamorelin, which acts through the ghrelin receptor, CJC-1295 works through the GHRH pathway, making the two compounds complementary.
The four amino acid substitutions (Ala2→D-Ala, Asn8→Gln, Ala15→Ala(Leu), Met27→Leu) were specifically designed to resist DPP-IV enzymatic cleavage, which rapidly degrades native GHRH in circulation.
Research Applications
- GH axis stimulation: Single-dose studies in animal models showed 2-10 fold increases in circulating GH levels sustained over extended periods with the DAC version
- IGF-1 elevation: Sustained increases in IGF-1 levels have been measured following CJC-1295 DAC administration
- Synergistic protocols: Combined administration with GHS receptor agonists like ipamorelin has demonstrated amplified GH pulse amplitude
- Body composition: Preclinical studies have shown effects on lean mass accretion and fat mass reduction
Reconstitution Notes
CJC-1295 (both versions) is supplied as a white lyophilized powder. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Store at -20°C before reconstitution and at 2-8°C after. The DAC version may appear slightly more viscous due to the maleimido modification. Do not freeze reconstituted DAC solutions, as this can disrupt the albumin-binding moiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CJC-1295?
A synthetic peptide analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) with 30 amino acids, modified for extended half-life in research applications.
Why is CJC-1295 important in peptide research?
CJC-1295 is a fundamental concept in compound as it relates to peptide science. It directly influences experimental design, compound characterization, and the reliability of research outcomes across biochemistry and molecular biology disciplines.