What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide belonging to the class of growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP) analogs. With the molecular formula C38H49N9O5 and a molecular weight of 711.85 Da, this selective ghrelin receptor agonist consists of five amino acids: Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2. Developed in the 1990s by Novo Nordisk, Ipamorelin is distinguished by its high selectivity for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a) without significant activation of cortisol or prolactin receptors.
The unique D-amino acid substitution in positions 2 and 4 confers increased stability against enzymatic degradation, while C-terminal amidation contributes to its biological activity. These structural characteristics make Ipamorelin one of the most studied GHRP analogs in preclinical research.
Mechanism of Action
Ipamorelin acts as a selective agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a), located on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary. Upon binding to this Gq/11-coupled receptor, the peptide activates the phospholipase C pathway, resulting in increased intracellular calcium concentrations and subsequent exocytosis of growth hormone-containing vesicles.
Ipamorelin's selectivity is demonstrated by minimal cross-reactivity with other neuroendocrine receptors. Unlike other GHRPs such as GHRP-6, Ipamorelin shows no significant activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, resulting in stable cortisol levels. The peptide also respects natural pulsatile growth hormone secretion patterns, without disrupting endogenous somatostatin feedback mechanisms.
Research Findings
Preclinical studies have demonstrated consistent growth hormone stimulating effects of Ipamorelin. In a randomized study with rats, subcutaneous administration of 0.1 mg/kg Ipamorelin showed a 3.8-fold increase in plasma growth hormone concentrations within 30 minutes, with peak values at 60 minutes.
Long-term studies in beagle dogs over 90 days with daily dosing of 0.5 mg/kg resulted in a 47% increase in linear growth parameters without adverse effects on glucose homeostasis or lipid profiles. Notably, cortisol and prolactin levels remained within physiological ranges throughout the entire study period.
In vitro research with primary rat gastric fundus preparations demonstrated that Ipamorelin exhibits an EC50 of 38 nM for growth hormone release, with a selectivity ratio of >1000 relative to other neuroendocrine pathways. This selectivity was confirmed in competitive binding assays where Ipamorelin showed a Ki of 1.3 nM for GHSR-1a receptors.
Available Variants and Purity
Dutch Peptide Labs offers Ipamorelin in two research variants: 5mg vial for €49 and 10mg vial for €75. Both variants are produced according to GMP guidelines with a guaranteed purity of ≥99.9%, verified by HPLC-MS analysis.
Each batch is independently tested by certified European laboratories for purity, identity, and microbial contaminants. The products are supplied as lyophilized white powder in sterile glass vials under inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation.
Storage and Handling
Lyophilized Ipamorelin should be stored at -20°C to -80°C, protected from light and moisture. Under these conditions, the peptide remains stable for at least 24 months from the production date.
For reconstitution, sterile water or bacteriostatic water is recommended at a ratio of 1-2 ml per 5mg of peptide. After reconstitution in sterile water, the solution is stable for 72 hours at 2-8°C. When using bacteriostatic water, the solution can be stored for up to 14 days at refrigerator temperature. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing to prevent aggregation.
Research Disclaimer
This product is intended for scientific research and in vitro applications only. Ipamorelin is not approved for human use, therapeutic application, or consumption. The product may only be handled by qualified laboratory personnel in controlled research environments. Dutch Peptide Labs accepts no responsibility for incorrect use or application outside of legitimate research purposes. Always consult institutional ethics committees prior to animal experimental research.
