Description
GHRP-6 is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue, the original first-generation GHRP from which the broader peptide class takes its name. GHRP-6 activates the full pharmacological footprint of ghrelin receptor stimulation, including potent orexigenic signaling through hypothalamic NPY/AgRP pathways and significant ACTH and cortisol co-stimulation alongside GH release. Researchers studying the full scope of ghrelin receptor biology select GHRP-6 specifically because of this broad receptor engagement, not despite it.
Chemical Information
- Chemical Name: GHRP-6 (His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2)
- Also Known As: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6
- Compound Class: Synthetic hexapeptide; growth hormone secretagogue (ghrelin/GHS-receptor agonist)
- Sequence: His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
- Molecular Formula: C46H56N12O6
- Molecular Weight: 872.99 g/mol
- CAS Number: 87616-84-0
Applications
- GH-axis secretagogue mechanism research. GHRP-6 binds and activates the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a). This is the same receptor targeted by endogenous ghrelin, triggering a Gq/phospholipase-C-mediated calcium signaling cascade in pituitary somatotrophs; it is the original, most extensively studied GHRP-family member and is frequently compared against GHRH-receptor agonists (Sermorelin, Tesamorelin, CJC-1295) to isolate which downstream GH-axis effects depend on each distinct receptor pathway
- GHRP/GHRH synergy research. Co-administration protocols pairing GHRP-6 with a GHRH analog are a standard experimental design for studying the synergistic amplification of GH pulse amplitude that occurs when both receptor pathways are activated together
- Appetite and orexigenic signaling research. GHRP-6 produces the strongest appetite-stimulating effect of the GHRP family at comparable doses. This is thanks to GHS-R1a activation in hypothalamic feeding-control circuits outside the pituitary, making it a standard tool for studying ghrelin-receptor-mediated feeding behavior separate from its GH-releasing activity
- Comparative GHRP-selectivity research. GHRP-6 shows more pronounced appetite and cortisol/prolactin co-release than newer-generation secretagogues such as Ipamorelin. Therefore, it is used as the non-selective comparator in research characterizing receptor-selectivity differences across the GHRP class
Storage and Handling
Store lyophilized powder at -20C for long-term stability, or at 2-8C for short-term use. Protect from heat, moisture, and direct light. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic or sterile water immediately before use; store reconstituted solution at 2-8C and use promptly, avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Compliance Notice
GHRP-6 is for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or veterinary use and carries no therapeutic, diagnostic, or clinical indication. This product has not been evaluated by the FDA. By purchasing this product, the buyer confirms that they will follow appropriate institutional safety procedures and use it exclusively for controlled research.
