All Peptides

5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme increasingly linked to obesity, metabolic dysfunction, and cellular aging. Although not technically a peptide, it is widely sold alongside peptides in the research compound marketplace due to overlapping customer interest in metabolic optimization. Its mechanism of action — boosting NAD+ in adipose tissue and promoting white-to-beige fat conversion — represents a novel approach to fat loss that is distinct from stimulant-based or hormonal interventions.

AOD-9604 is a synthetic modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 177-191) originally developed as an anti-obesity therapeutic. It stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis through the same mechanism as full-length hGH but without its growth-promoting, diabetogenic, or IGF-1-elevating effects. Despite promising early clinical data, its development as a pharmaceutical stalled after phase 2, and it is now primarily used in research and wellness contexts.

Argireline is a synthetic hexapeptide that inhibits SNARE complex formation at the neuromuscular junction, mimicking a mechanism similar to botulinum toxin (Botox). By reducing neurotransmitter release and decreasing the force of muscle contractions responsible for expression lines, it offers a non-invasive, topical alternative to injectable neuromodulators. It is one of the best-selling and most recognized anti-wrinkle peptides in the cosmeceutical industry.

BPC-157 is a synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from human gastric juice. It has demonstrated potent healing properties across tendons, ligaments, muscles, the gut lining, and the nervous system in preclinical research. It is one of the most widely studied peptides for tissue repair and injury recovery.

Cerebrolysin is a proprietary neurotrophic peptide preparation derived from purified porcine (pig) brain proteins. It consists of a standardized mixture of low-molecular-weight neuropeptides (approximately 25%) and free amino acids (approximately 75%) that mimic the activity of naturally occurring nerve growth factors. Approved in over 40 countries for stroke recovery, Alzheimer's disease, and traumatic brain injury, Cerebrolysin is one of the most extensively studied neuroprotective agents, though it notably lacks FDA approval.

CJC-1295 (without DAC) is a modified synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) with four amino acid substitutions that resist enzymatic degradation. It extends the biological half-life of GRF 1-29 while maintaining a pulsatile GH release profile, making it one of the most popular peptides for growth hormone optimization. It is frequently paired with GH secretagogues like ipamorelin for synergistic effects.

CJC-1295 DAC is a modified growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog identical to CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) but with the addition of a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) — a reactive chemical group that covalently binds to serum albumin after injection. This albumin binding extends the half-life from approximately 30 minutes to roughly 8 days, enabling sustained growth hormone elevation from a single weekly injection. Originally developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies for clinical use, CJC-1295 DAC remains one of the most potent GHRH analogs available in the research peptide market.

Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide bioregulator (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) from the Khavinson peptide family, designed to target the cerebral cortex. Developed at the Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, Cortagen is proposed to normalize gene expression in cortical neurons, enhance neurotransmitter synthesis, and improve neuronal resilience under stress. It sits within the broader Russian bioregulatory medicine tradition alongside compounds like Pinealon (pineal gland), Epithalon (telomerase/pineal), and Thymalin (thymus). Western research on Cortagen specifically remains very limited, and the compound should be considered highly experimental.

Dihexa is a novel synthetic peptide-derived compound designed as a hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mimetic. Developed at Washington State University, it has attracted significant attention for claims of being up to 10 million times more potent than BDNF at promoting synaptic connectivity in vitro. While animal studies show remarkable cognitive enhancement, Dihexa has never been tested in human clinical trials, and its mechanism raises significant safety concerns due to the role of HGF/c-Met signaling in cancer progression. It remains a preclinical research compound with extremely limited human safety data.

DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide) is a naturally occurring 9-amino acid neuropeptide originally isolated from the cerebral venous blood of rabbits during electrically induced sleep in 1977. It promotes deep slow-wave (delta) sleep by modulating GABAergic and serotonergic neurotransmission. Beyond sleep, DSIP has demonstrated stress-buffering properties through regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, including modulation of ACTH and cortisol release.

Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) modeled after Epithalamin, a naturally occurring peptide produced by the pineal gland. It is best known for its ability to activate telomerase, the enzyme responsible for elongating telomeres — the protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with age. Discovered by Russian gerontologist Professor Vladimir Khavinson, Epithalon represents one of the most direct approaches to addressing biological aging at the chromosomal level.

Follistatin is a naturally occurring glycoprotein that acts as a potent inhibitor of myostatin and activin — two key negative regulators of muscle growth. By neutralizing these growth-limiting signals, follistatin effectively removes the biological "brake" on muscle hypertrophy. It has attracted significant research interest for both performance applications and as a potential treatment for muscular dystrophy via gene therapy approaches.

GHK is a naturally occurring tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) found in human plasma, saliva, and urine that declines significantly with age. It is the base form of the well-known GHK-Cu (copper peptide) and can bind copper ions in vivo. Groundbreaking genomic studies have revealed that GHK modulates the expression of over 4,000 human genes, generally resetting gene activity patterns toward a healthier, more youthful state.

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It declines significantly with age, dropping from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60. Research shows it activates stem cells, promotes collagen synthesis, reduces inflammation, and may reset gene expression toward a healthier, more youthful pattern.

GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that acts on the ghrelin/GHS receptor to stimulate potent growth hormone release from the pituitary. It is considered one of the strongest GHRPs for GH output, producing a more robust GH response per dose than GHRP-6 while causing less appetite stimulation. However, like GHRP-6 and hexarelin, it is not selective — it also elevates cortisol and prolactin. GHRP-2 (under the name pralmorelin) is approved in Japan as a diagnostic agent for GH deficiency.

GHRP-6 is one of the earliest and most studied synthetic growth hormone secretagogues. It is a hexapeptide that acts as a potent ghrelin receptor agonist, stimulating robust growth hormone release from the pituitary gland. GHRP-6 is notable for its strong appetite-stimulating effects, making it popular among those seeking to increase caloric intake for muscle gain, though this same property limits its appeal for fat loss protocols.

Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue and one of the most potent members of the GHRP (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide) family. It acts on the ghrelin/GHS receptor to stimulate robust GH release from the pituitary. Beyond its GH-releasing properties, hexarelin has demonstrated unique cardioprotective effects that appear to be independent of GH, acting directly on cardiac tissue through the CD36 scavenger receptor.

Humanin is a 24-amino acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene, making it the first mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) ever discovered. Originally identified in 2001 from a cDNA library of surviving neurons in an Alzheimer's disease brain, Humanin has demonstrated powerful cytoprotective effects against amyloid-beta toxicity, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. It represents a paradigm shift in understanding mitochondria as active signaling organelles rather than mere powerhouses.

IGF-1 LR3 is a modified, highly potent analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) engineered for extended biological activity. With an arginine substitution at position 3 and 13 additional amino acids at the N-terminus, it resists binding by IGF binding proteins, resulting in 2–3x greater potency than native IGF-1. It is one of the most powerful anabolic peptides studied for muscle hypertrophy and cell proliferation.

Ipamorelin is a highly selective growth hormone secretagogue peptide (GHRP) that stimulates GH release through the ghrelin/GHS receptor. It is distinguished from other GHRPs by its remarkable selectivity — it triggers robust GH release with minimal impact on cortisol, prolactin, or appetite. This clean side-effect profile has made it one of the most popular peptides in anti-aging and performance optimization protocols.

Kisspeptin-10 is a truncated form of the neuropeptide kisspeptin, a master regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. It plays a critical role in puberty onset, reproductive function, and hormone regulation by triggering the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Clinical research is exploring its potential as a fertility treatment, a diagnostic tool for pubertal disorders, and a novel approach to enhancing sexual desire through physiological hormone pathways.

KPV is a naturally occurring tripeptide (Lysine-Proline-Valine) derived from the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It retains the potent anti-inflammatory activity of the parent hormone without causing skin pigmentation or other melanogenic side effects. It has emerged as one of the most promising peptides for gut health and inflammatory conditions.

Liraglutide is a first-generation GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes (Victoza) and chronic weight management (Saxenda). While it produces more modest weight loss (~8% body weight) compared to newer agents like semaglutide and tirzepatide, it was the first GLP-1 medication with proven cardiovascular benefit (LEADER trial) and remains widely prescribed with a well-established long-term safety profile spanning over 15 years.

LL-37 is the only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, a 37-amino acid fragment cleaved from the C-terminus of the precursor protein hCAP18. It serves as a critical first-line defense against infections, capable of directly killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Beyond its antimicrobial role, LL-37 modulates immune responses, promotes wound healing, and disrupts biofilms.

Matrixyl is a lipopeptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the pentapeptide KTTKS (Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser). This sequence is a fragment of the procollagen I C-propeptide that acts as a matrikine — a signal molecule released during extracellular matrix breakdown that tells fibroblasts to produce new collagen. It is one of the most well-studied and clinically validated cosmeceutical peptides for anti-aging skincare.

Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that acts as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. Originally developed at the University of Arizona for skin cancer prevention via UV-free tanning, it was never approved by any regulatory agency. It remains widely used as an unregulated research chemical for tanning and sexual enhancement despite significant safety concerns, including potential melanoma risk.

MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) is a splice variant of IGF-1 that is expressed specifically in response to mechanical loading of skeletal muscle — essentially, it is the growth signal your body produces after intense exercise or muscle damage. Unlike systemic IGF-1, MGF acts locally at the site of tissue damage to activate satellite cells (muscle stem cells), initiating the repair and growth process.

MK-677 (ibutamoren) is a non-peptide, orally active growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin by binding to the GHS-R1a receptor. Although technically a small molecule rather than a peptide, it is commonly grouped with GH secretagogue peptides due to its identical mechanism of action. Its oral bioavailability and long half-life (~24 hours) make it the most convenient GH secretagogue available, requiring only once-daily dosing without injections. MK-677 has been studied in clinical trials for muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and GH deficiency.

MOTS-c is a 16-amino acid peptide encoded in the mitochondrial DNA, making it one of the first identified mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs). It acts as an exercise mimetic by activating the AMPK pathway, a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. MOTS-c bridges the gap between mitochondrial signaling and nuclear gene regulation, representing a novel form of retrograde communication from mitochondria to the nucleus.

NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is an essential coenzyme found in every living cell, involved in over 500 enzymatic reactions. While not technically a peptide, it is widely discussed alongside peptides in the longevity and anti-aging space. NAD+ levels decline approximately 50% by age 60, and this decline is implicated in mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage accumulation, and metabolic deterioration. NAD+ can be boosted through precursors (NMN, NR, niacin) or direct IV infusion.

Orforglipron is an investigational oral non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Eli Lilly. Unlike all currently approved GLP-1 medications (which are either injectable or peptide-based oral formulations with very low bioavailability), orforglipron is a small molecule that can be taken as a simple daily pill without the strict fasting requirements of oral semaglutide. In phase 2 trials, it demonstrated up to 14.7% weight loss, potentially bringing GLP-1 therapy to millions of injection-averse patients.

Oxytocin is a 9-amino acid cyclic neuropeptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. Known as the "bonding hormone," it mediates social attachment, trust, and pair bonding. It is also one of the oldest approved peptide drugs — marketed as Pitocin for labor induction and Syntocinon for lactation support. Intranasal oxytocin is being actively researched for autism spectrum disorder, social anxiety, and PTSD.

P21 (also designated P021) is a small neurotrophic compound derived from the active region of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). Developed at the New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, P21 was designed to cross the blood-brain barrier and provide CNTF-like neurotrophic benefits without the systemic side effects of full-length CNTF. In animal models of Alzheimer's disease, P21 has demonstrated neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus, BDNF upregulation, and reduction in tau pathology. It remains at an extremely early stage of research with no human clinical trials conducted.

PE-22-28 is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the propeptide region of sortilin (the mature sortilin receptor precursor). It functions as a potent antagonist of TREK-1 (TWIK-related potassium channel 1), a two-pore-domain potassium channel strongly implicated in depression. TREK-1 knockout mice display a phenotype completely resistant to depression, and PE-22-28 pharmacologically mimics this effect. The compound represents a fundamentally different approach to antidepressant therapy — targeting an ion channel rather than monoamine neurotransmitter systems.

Pinealon is a synthetic tripeptide bioregulator (Glu-Asp-Arg) developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson at the Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology. It belongs to the Khavinson bioregulator peptide family — a class of ultra-short peptides theorized to bind specific DNA sequences and regulate gene expression in target tissues. Pinealon specifically targets the pineal gland and central nervous system, with reported neuroprotective, sleep-modulating, and antioxidant properties. It represents the Russian bioregulatory medicine tradition, which is largely distinct from Western pharmaceutical research.

PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved under the brand name Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors such as Viagra, PT-141 acts centrally in the brain to enhance sexual desire rather than working peripherally on blood flow. It is the first and only FDA-approved on-demand treatment for low sexual desire.

Retatrutide is an investigational triple-hormone receptor agonist developed by Eli Lilly that simultaneously activates GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon receptors. In phase 2 trials, it produced unprecedented weight loss of up to 24.2% of body weight at 48 weeks, surpassing all other anti-obesity medications in development. It is currently in phase 3 clinical trials with search interest growing over 500%.

Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It is an analog of the naturally occurring immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin with an added Pro-Gly-Pro sequence for stability. Selank is approved in Russia as an anxiolytic medication and has demonstrated nootropic, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective properties without the sedation, dependence, or withdrawal associated with benzodiazepines.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic, Rybelsus) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). It is the most widely prescribed GLP-1 medication globally and demonstrated a landmark 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events in the SELECT trial, establishing it as the first anti-obesity drug with proven cardiovascular benefit.

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of the adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment ACTH(4-10) with a Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal extension for metabolic stability. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, it is approved in Russia and Ukraine for the treatment of stroke, cognitive impairment, and optic nerve disease. Semax is one of the most extensively studied nootropic peptides, with documented neuroprotective, neurotrophic, and cognitive-enhancing effects.

Sermorelin is a synthetic analog of the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It was previously FDA-approved under the brand name Geref for the diagnosis and treatment of growth hormone deficiency in children, though it has since been discontinued. It remains one of the most well-studied GHRH analogs used to stimulate natural growth hormone production from the pituitary gland.

Snap-8 is an elongated version of Argireline (8 amino acids versus 6) that also inhibits SNARE complex formation to reduce muscle contraction and expression wrinkles. By specifically targeting the SNAP-25 protein within the SNARE complex, Snap-8 may offer enhanced potency compared to Argireline at equivalent concentrations. It represents the next generation of "topical Botox-alternative" cosmeceutical peptides.

SS-31 (Elamipretide) is an aromatic-cationic tetrapeptide that selectively targets and concentrates in the mitochondrial inner membrane. It is the most clinically advanced mitochondria-targeted peptide, currently in Phase 3 trials for Barth syndrome, heart failure, and renal disease. By binding cardiolipin and stabilizing cristae structure, SS-31 restores mitochondrial electron transport chain efficiency and reduces reactive oxygen species production at the source.

Survodutide is an investigational dual glucagon/GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Boehringer Ingelheim and Zealand Pharma. Unlike tirzepatide (which targets GIP/GLP-1), survodutide pairs GLP-1 with glucagon receptor activation to increase energy expenditure and drive hepatic fat reduction. In phase 2 trials, it achieved up to 19% weight loss and showed particularly promising results for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), potentially positioning it as a differentiated treatment for both obesity and liver disease.

TB-500 is a synthetic version of Thymosin Beta-4, a 43-amino acid peptide naturally present in virtually all human cells. It plays a critical role in tissue repair, cell migration, and blood vessel formation. TB-500 is widely used in healing protocols for its ability to reduce inflammation and promote repair of injured muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of the full 44-amino acid growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), modified with a trans-3-hexenoic acid group. It is the only FDA-approved GHRH analog currently on the market, indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat (lipodystrophy) in HIV-infected patients. Tesamorelin has generated significant interest for its potent visceral fat-reducing effects and emerging research on hepatic fat reduction and cognitive benefits.

Thymosin Alpha-1 is a 28-amino acid peptide originally isolated from thymus gland extracts. It is one of the few peptides approved as a pharmaceutical drug — marketed as Zadaxin in over 35 countries for hepatitis B and C, and granted FDA orphan drug status in the United States. It is a cornerstone of immune modulation therapy.

Thymosin Beta-4 is a 43-amino acid peptide and the primary intracellular G-actin sequestering protein in mammalian cells. While often confused with TB-500 (a synthetic fragment), the full-length Thymosin Beta-4 molecule has distinct and broader biological activity, including cardiac repair and corneal healing. It has advanced to Phase 2 clinical trials for dry eye disease and cardiac regeneration.

Tirzepatide is a first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes (as Mounjaro) and chronic weight management (as Zepbound). In landmark clinical trials, it demonstrated weight loss of up to 20-25% of body weight, making it one of the most effective anti-obesity medications ever developed.

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is a 28-amino acid neuropeptide belonging to the secretin/glucagon superfamily. It is distributed throughout the gut, brain, lungs, and immune system, where it acts as a potent vasodilator, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulatory molecule. VIP has gained significant attention in integrative medicine for its role in treating Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) caused by mold and biotoxin exposure.