Tesamorelin (brand name Egrifta®) is a synthetic 44-amino acid peptide analogue of human growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), also known as growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) . It is designed to restore pulsatile growth hormone (GH) secretion, offering a more physiological approach than direct GH administration .
Key Specifications:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 804475-66-9 or 901758-09-6 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S |
| Molecular Weight | ~5135 Da |
| Synonyms | Egrifta, TH9507 |
| Purity (Research Grade) | ≥95% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and physiological buffers |
| Bioavailability | <4% (subcutaneous) |
| Half-life | ~11 minutes (in healthy subjects) |
| Storage | Store at -20°C; protect from light and moisture |
Mechanism of Action:
Tesamorelin binds to and stimulates human GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotroph cells with similar potency as endogenous GHRH . This stimulates the synthesis and pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone (GH) . GH then exerts its effects on target cells including chondrocytes, osteoblasts, myocytes, hepatocytes, and adipocytes, resulting in:
| Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Lipolysis | Breakdown of fat, particularly visceral adipose tissue (VAT) |
| Protein synthesis | Anabolic effects, increasing lean body mass |
| IGF-1 elevation | Increases insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels |
| Selectivity | No clinically significant changes in TSH, LH, ACTH, or prolactin |
Key Research Applications:
| Category | Applications |
|---|---|
| HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy | FDA-approved indication; reduces visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and trunk fat |
| Metabolic Research | Reduces hepatic fat percentage; improves body composition |
| Body Composition | Increases lean body mass; reduces waist circumference |
| Lipid Metabolism | Potential improvements in triglyceride levels |
| NAFLD/NASH Research | Investigational for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease |
Clinical Status:
Tesamorelin is FDA-approved (November 10, 2010) for the reduction of excess abdominal fat (visceral adipose tissue) in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy . It is available by prescription under the brand name Egrifta® as a subcutaneous injection.
Important Notice:
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. NOT FOR HUMAN USE, THERAPEUTIC, OR DIAGNOSTIC APPLICATIONS outside approved clinical settings.
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