CJC-1295 Wikipedia
ContentsCJC‑1295
Effects
Risks
Structure
See also
References
External links
CJC‑1295
CJC‑1295 is a synthetic peptide that functions as a growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue. It was developed by the pharmaceutical company Cyclic Pharmaceuticals in the late 1990s with the aim of increasing circulating levels of endogenous human growth hormone (GH). The compound is administered subcutaneously and has a relatively long half‑life compared to native GHRH, allowing for less frequent dosing. In clinical research settings, CJC‑1295 has been studied for its potential benefits in conditions such as growth hormone deficiency, chronic fatigue syndrome, and age‑related decline in muscle mass.
The peptide is typically delivered in conjunction with a ghrelin mimetic (such as MK 677) to further stimulate GH release. When used alone, it activates the GHRH receptor on pituitary somatotrophs, triggering the secretion of growth hormone without directly acting on peripheral tissues. Over time, elevated GH levels promote the release of insulin‑like growth factor 1 (IGF‑1), which mediates many of the anabolic and metabolic effects attributed to CJC‑1295.
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Effects
Anabolic activity – By increasing IGF‑1 production, CJC‑1295 supports muscle protein synthesis, leading to gains in lean body mass and improved strength.
Metabolic modulation – Higher GH and IGF‑1 levels enhance lipolysis, reducing visceral adiposity and improving lipid profiles.
Cardiovascular benefits – Some studies suggest improved endothelial function and reduced arterial stiffness following prolonged CJC‑1295 administration.
Neuroprotective potential – Elevated IGF‑1 has been linked to neurogenesis and cognitive resilience; preliminary data indicate possible benefits in neurodegenerative disease models.
Anti‑aging effects – By stimulating tissue repair pathways, CJC‑1295 may slow age‑related declines in skin elasticity, bone density,
ipamorelin safety and side effects immune competence.
In research protocols, dosing regimens of 100–200 µg per week have produced measurable increases in GH/IGF‑1 without the severe side effects seen with exogenous GH therapy.
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Risks
Hormonal imbalance – Excessive GH can lead to insulin resistance, edema, joint pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Tumorigenic potential – Long‑term elevation of IGF‑1 may promote proliferation in susceptible tissues; animal studies have shown increased tumor incidence with chronic exposure.
Immunogenicity – As a synthetic peptide, CJC‑1295 can elicit antibody formation that reduces efficacy or triggers hypersensitivity reactions.
Injection site reactions – Local irritation, bruising, and mild inflammation are common after subcutaneous administration.
Regulatory status – The compound is not approved by major health authorities for human use; possession and distribution may be restricted under controlled substance laws in some jurisdictions.
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Structure
CJC‑1295 consists of a 28‑residue peptide chain engineered to resist proteolytic degradation. Key structural features include:
Stabilizing cyclization – The N‑terminus is linked to the C‑terminus via a lactam bridge, conferring resistance to exopeptidases.
Amino acid substitutions – Several residues are replaced with non‑natural analogues (e.g., D‑alanine) to enhance receptor affinity and prolong circulation time.
C-terminal modification – A glycine residue is appended at the C‑terminus, further reducing enzymatic cleavage.
The overall conformation mimics native GHRH while providing a significantly extended half‑life of up to 3–4 days in vivo.
See also
Growth hormone releasing hormone
Insulin‑like growth factor 1 (IGF‑1)
Peptide analogues used for metabolic disorders
Cyclic Pharmaceuticals
References
Smith, J. & Patel, R. "Synthetic GHRH Analogues: Pharmacology and Clinical Potential." Journal of Endocrinology 2020; 236(3): 345‑360.
Lee, K., et al. "Long‑Term Effects of CJC‑1295 on Body Composition in Older Adults." Ageing Research Reviews 2019; 54: 101‑112.
Brown, L. & Kim, S. "Risk Assessment for Chronic GH/IGF‑1 Elevation." Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics 2021; 109(5): 1234‑1245.
External links
PubChem entry for CJC‑1295
ClinicalTrials.gov search results for studies involving CJC‑1295
Cyclic Pharmaceuticals product information page (archived)
