GHRP-2
GHRP-2 — Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-2, a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a ghrelin mimetic to stimulate growth hormone secretion in research models.
What Is GHRP-2?
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2, also known as KP-102 or Pralmorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide with the sequence D-Ala-D-2-Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2 and a molecular weight of 817.97 Da. It is considered the most potent member of the GHRP family in terms of GH release per unit dose.
Mechanism of Action
GHRP-2 acts as a potent agonist at the GHS-R1a receptor with higher binding affinity than GHRP-6. GHRP-2 also partially suppresses somatostatin release, compounding its GH-releasing effect through dual action: direct pituitary stimulation plus removal of hypothalamic inhibition.
Research Applications
- Diagnostic use: GHRP-2 (as Pralmorelin) has been used clinically in Japan as a diagnostic tool for GH deficiency testing
- GH axis research: Used as a pharmacological probe to characterize GHS receptor distribution and function across tissues
- Comparative studies: Frequently used as a benchmark for evaluating newer GH secretagogues in potency comparisons
- Aging research: Studies in aged animal models examined restoration of GH pulsatility toward younger baseline levels
Reconstitution
Store lyophilized GHRP-2 at -20°C. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Stable at 2-8°C for up to 28 days. The three D-amino acid substitutions confer strong resistance to enzymatic degradation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GHRP-2?
Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-2, a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a ghrelin mimetic to stimulate growth hormone secretion in research models.
Why is GHRP-2 important in peptide research?
GHRP-2 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.