1. What is GHRP-2?
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide that has been studied for its ability to stimulate growth hormone (GH) release via binding to the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in the pituitary and hypothalamus. It belongs to the GHRP family alongside GHRP-6 and Ipamorelin, and is mainly used in research settings to evaluate GH-related endocrine and metabolic pathways.
2. GHRP-2 Structure
Sequence: D-Ala-D-2Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys
Molecular Formula: C₄₅H₅₅N₉O₆
Molecular Weight: 817.9749 g/mol
PubChem CID: 6918245
CAS Number: 158861-67-7
Code Names: KP-102,GPA-748,WAY-GPA-748
3. GHRP-2 Research
Mechanism of Action
- Pituitary Stimulation: Binds to GHSR-1a on anterior pituitary cells, increasing GH pulse release 【1】.
- Hypothalamic Activation: Influences arcuate nucleus neurons, enhancing GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) output while reducing somatostatin activity.
- Ghrelin Mimicry: Demonstrates ghrelin-like actions including modulation of appetite and gastric motility.
Research Highlights
- GH & IGF-1 Modulation: Observed increases in serum GH and IGF-1, suggesting anabolic and regenerative potential.
- Metabolic Studies: Investigated for its influence on fat metabolism and lean tissue preservation in aging or GH-deficient models (J Clin Endocrinol).
- Immune & Tissue Recovery: GH is linked to immune activity and collagen synthesis; GHRP-2 has been studied for related supportive effects.
Expert Commentary
Nature Reviews Endocrinology (2020): “GHSR-1a agonists such as GHRP-2 may provide a unique approach to GH stimulation by bypassing age-related hypothalamic decline.”
✅ Why Consider GHRP-2?
- 💪 Studied as a potent GH secretagogue acting at both hypothalamic and pituitary levels
- 🧬 Research shows elevation of GH and IGF-1 in clinical and preclinical settings
- 🔄 Ghrelin-like effects, including modulation of appetite and metabolism
- 🛌 Explored for its role in recovery, sleep, and endocrine regulation
- 🧪 Investigated in combination protocols with GHRH analogs (e.g., CJC-1295)
4. Future GHRP-2 Research
A. Combination Therapies for GH Deficiency & Aging
- Trials are underway to combine GHRP-2 with CJC-1295, leveraging GHRH + GHSR synergy for enhanced GH pulsatility.
- Research suggests combining GHRP-2 with testosterone replacement, thyroid support, or metformin may yield optimal metabolic restoration in aging males (NIH Study Protocols).
B. Appetite & Cachexia Management
1. GHRP-2 is being investigated as a therapeutic appetite stimulant in:
- Cancer cachexia
- Anorexia nervosa
- HIV-related wasting syndromes
2. Future dosing protocols aim to balance anabolic and orexigenic effects for patients with chronic undernutrition.
C. Pediatric Endocrinology
Trials in GH-deficient children explore GHRP-2 as a safer alternative to exogenous GH, with more physiological pulsatility and lower tumor-promoting risk.
D. Cardiometabolic & Cognitive Health
- Animal studies show GHRP-2 may improve cardiac remodeling post-MI, and protect against oxidative stress in vascular tissues.
- Investigation into cognitive benefits (via IGF-1–linked neurogenesis) in models of early dementia or traumatic brain injury is ongoing.
E. Delivery Technology & Dosing Advances
- Oral, sublingual, and intranasal formulations under study to improve ease of use and adherence.
- GH “reboot” protocols using cyclical GHRP-2 for hypothalamic-pituitary axis recalibration in long-term steroid or GH abuse recovery patients.
5. Application Area
- 🧬 Hormonal Research & Aging Studies
Evaluated in age-management, endocrine decline, and longevity research protocols
- 💪 Muscle & Metabolism Research
Studied for its impact on body composition and lipolysis 【2】
- 🧠 Neurocognitive Research
IGF-1–related effects investigated in brain plasticity, sleep, and neuroprotection models
- 🩺 Endocrinology & Clinical Studies
Research applications include GH deficiency, pituitary suppression, and wasting models
⚠ Disclaimer
ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat, or cure any medical condition, ailment, or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.
