GHRP-6
GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6) is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent growth hormone secretagogue through the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). Developed in the 1980s by Cyril Bowers, GHRP-6 was one of the first synthetic GH-releasing peptides discovered and has served as a foundational research tool for understanding the ghrelin-GH axis.
Research Overview
GHRP-6 played a pivotal role in the discovery and characterization of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor, which was later identified as the ghrelin receptor. Research published in journals including Endocrinology, the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, and Neuroendocrinology has extensively characterized its pharmacology, receptor binding, and physiological effects in animal models. Studies have demonstrated its ability to stimulate GH release in a dose-dependent manner through a mechanism distinct from GHRH, leading to the identification of the GHS receptor and eventually the discovery of ghrelin itself. GHRP-6 remains widely used in research despite newer, more selective alternatives like Ipamorelin, because its well-characterized pharmacological profile makes it a reliable reference compound.
Key Research Findings
- 1
Instrumental in the discovery and characterization of the GHS-R1a (ghrelin) receptor
- 2
Demonstrated potent, dose-dependent GH release in animal models (Bowers et al., 1984)
- 3
Acts synergistically with GHRH through complementary receptor pathways in combined administration studies
- 4
Showed concurrent stimulation of appetite-related pathways in rodent behavioral studies
- 5
Stimulated cortisol and prolactin release at higher doses — less selective than Ipamorelin
- 6
Remains a gold-standard reference compound in growth hormone secretagogue research
Where to Buy GHRP-6
Our top-ranked vendors for sourcing research-grade GHRP-6. All vendors below publish third-party COAs and have been independently evaluated.
Molecular Details
- Sequence
- His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
- Molecular Weight
- 873.0 g/mol
- Molecular Formula
- C46H56N12O6
Storage & Handling
- Storage
- Store lyophilized at -20C. Reconstituted at 4C, use within 21 days.
- Solubility
- Soluble in sterile water and bacteriostatic water.
Categories
Research Disclaimer: All information on this page is provided for educational and research purposes only. Products discussed are intended for laboratory research use exclusively. They are not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or as dietary supplements. Always follow institutional guidelines and consult published peer-reviewed literature for research protocol development. Not for human consumption.