GHRP-6
GHRP-6 — Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-6, a synthetic met-enkephalin analog and hexapeptide used in growth hormone secretion research.
What Is GHRP-6?
GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6) is a synthetic hexapeptide with the sequence His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2 and a molecular weight of 873.01 Da. Developed by Cyril Bowers in the 1980s, it was one of the first synthetic GH secretagogues identified and remains one of the most widely studied.
Mechanism of Action
GHRP-6 activates the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a), the same receptor later identified as the ghrelin receptor. Receptor activation triggers phospholipase C signaling, IP3-mediated calcium release, and growth hormone vesicle exocytosis from pituitary somatotrophs.
Unlike the more selective ipamorelin, GHRP-6 also stimulates cortisol and prolactin release at higher doses and strongly stimulates appetite through hypothalamic ghrelin pathway activation.
Research Applications
- GH secretion: The reference compound for studying GHS-R1a-mediated GH release, with dose-response curves well-characterized in multiple species
- Appetite regulation: Strong orexigenic effects make GHRP-6 a tool for studying ghrelin-pathway appetite signaling
- Cardioprotection: Studies in ischemia-reperfusion models showed reduced infarct size and improved cardiac function
- Gastric motility: Research demonstrated prokinetic effects on gastric emptying
Storage and Reconstitution
Store at -20°C as lyophilized powder. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. GHRP-6 is relatively stable in solution; use within 28 days at 2-8°C.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GHRP-6?
Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-6, a synthetic met-enkephalin analog and hexapeptide used in growth hormone secretion research.
Why is GHRP-6 important in peptide research?
GHRP-6 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.