Research Context
Our Tesamorelin is a 44-amino-acid synthetic GHRH analog (GHRH 1-44) featuring an N-terminal trans-3-hexenoic acid modification for enhanced stability, supplied at >99% HPLC purity for adipose-tissue and metabolic research. Frequently referred to in laboratory shorthand as Tesa or Tes, this compound is studied for GHRH receptor agonism, visceral fat mobilization, and IGF-1 modulation in controlled laboratory investigations alongside complementary metabolic compounds for comparative endocrine research.
A stabilized GHRH analog studied in adipose-tissue and lipid-metabolism research models.
Tesamorelin (TH9507): Full-Length Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analog
Tesamorelin (frequently referred to as Tesa, Tes, or by its former brand name Egrifta) is a synthetic 44-amino-acid peptide structurally identical to the full-length, endogenous human Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH 1-44), with one critical modification: the addition of a trans-3-hexenoic acid moiety at the N-terminus. While native GHRH and truncated 29-amino-acid analogs are rapidly degraded by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), the trans-3-hexenoic acid group on Tesamorelin protects it from this cleavage, extending its biological activity. Tesamorelin is highly notable in clinical and preclinical research for its specific, profound effects on lipid metabolism — it is the only GHRH analog FDA-approved specifically for the reduction of excess visceral adipose tissue in patients with HIV-associated lipodystrophy, making it a primary compound of interest in metabolic and body-composition research.
Key Research Findings (At a Glance)
| Parameter | Summary |
|---|---|
| Peptide Structure | 44 amino acids (full-length GHRH 1-44 with N-terminal modification) |
| Origin | Synthetic GHRH analog |
| Primary Mechanism | GHRH receptor agonism (cAMP/PKA pathway) |
| Key Research Areas | Visceral adiposity, lipodystrophy, lipid metabolism, IGF-1 research |
| Distinguishing Feature | N-terminal trans-3-hexenoic acid modification for DPP-4 resistance |
| Key Differentiator from Sermorelin | Full 44-amino-acid length; targeted visceral fat effects |
| Typical Research Dosing Scale | Milligrams (1mg - 2mg daily) |
| Common Combinations | Ipamorelin, metabolic regulators |
| Intended Use | Laboratory research only – not for human or veterinary consumption |
Tesamorelin Mechanism of Action: Full-Length GHRH Agonism and Lipid Modulation
Upon administration, Tesamorelin binds to the GHRH receptors located on the anterior pituitary gland. This binding activates the adenylyl cyclase/cAMP (cyclic AMP) intracellular signaling pathway, which directly stimulates the transcription of the GH gene and the exocytosis of stored growth hormone (GH) vesicles into the systemic circulation, subsequently elevating Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) levels.
The trans-3-hexenoic acid modification at the N-terminus is a critical pharmacokinetic feature. While Tes still has a relatively short plasma half-life (approximately 10 to 20 minutes), the N-terminal protection prevents rapid DPP-4 inactivation, resulting in a longer duration of biological action and a more sustained GH pulse compared to unmodified 29-amino-acid fragments.
The elevation of GH and IGF-1 induced by Tesamorelin has a highly specific effect on adipose tissue. Research demonstrates that Tesa selectively targets visceral adipose tissue (the dangerous fat stored deep in the abdomen around organs) rather than subcutaneous fat. It stimulates lipolysis (the breakdown of fat) and inhibits lipogenesis in visceral adipocytes, making it a primary compound of interest in metabolic and body-composition research.
Tesamorelin vs. Sermorelin vs. CJC-1295 No DAC: Comparative GHRH Analog Research Analysis
Researchers frequently compare these three Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone analogs to understand the trade-offs between peptide length, structural modifications, and specific metabolic applications.
| Feature | Tesamorelin (Tesa) | Sermorelin (Serm) | CJC-1295 No DAC (MOD-GRF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peptide Length | 44 amino acids (Full-length) | 29 amino acids (Truncated) | 29 amino acids (Truncated) |
| Structural Modifications | N-terminal trans-3-hexenoic acid addition | None (identical to native human GHRH 1-29) | Internal amino acid substitutions |
| DPP-4 Resistance | High (protected by N-terminal modification) | None (rapidly degraded) | High (protected by internal substitutions) |
| Biological Half-Life | ~10 to 20 minutes (longer biological duration) | ~10 to 20 minutes (rapid degradation) | ~30 minutes |
| Primary Mechanism | GHRH receptor agonism (cAMP/PKA pathway) | GHRH receptor agonism (cAMP/PKA pathway) | GHRH receptor agonism (cAMP/PKA pathway) |
| Key Research Advantage | Full-length sequence; highly targeted visceral fat reduction | Native 1-29 sequence; historical baseline for GH pulsatility | DPP-4 resistance extends pulse duration; popular in aging research |
| Primary Research Application | Visceral adiposity, lipodystrophy, targeted lipid metabolism | Historical GH axis studies, strict pulsatile modeling | Somatotropic axis, aging, combination protocols with GHRPs |
| Typical Research Dosing Scale | Milligrams (1mg - 2mg daily) | Micrograms (200mcg - 500mcg per pulse) | Micrograms (100mcg - 300mcg per pulse) |
Note: While all three compounds stimulate GH release via GHRH receptor activation, Tesamorelin is distinguished by its full 44-amino-acid length and its unique, highly targeted effects on visceral adipose tissue. Formulation ratios and purity metrics may vary by batch.
Tesamorelin Chemical Specifications (Acetate Salt)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Tesamorelin, Tesa, Tes, Egrifta, TH9507, TH9002, GHRH 1-44 analog |
| Peptide Sequence | N-(trans-3-hexenoyl)-Tyr-Ala-Asp-Ala-Ile-Phe-Thr-Asn-Ser-Tyr-Arg-Lys-Val-Leu-Gly-Gln-Leu-Ser-Ala-Arg-Lys-Leu-Leu-Gln-Asp-Ile-Met-Ser-Arg-Gln-Gln-Gly-Glu-Ser-Asn-Gln-Glu-Arg-Gly-Ala-Arg-Ala-Arg-Leu-NH₂ |
| Peptide Length | 44 amino acids |
| Key Structural Notes | 44-amino-acid synthetic GHRH analog; full-length GHRH 1-44 with N-terminal trans-3-hexenoic acid modification for enhanced stability |
| Structural Modification Overview | Full-Length GHRH Analog: Synthetic peptide identical to the full 44-amino-acid sequence of endogenous human GHRH. N-Terminal Modification: trans-3-hexenoic acid moiety at the N-terminus provides DPP-4 resistance, extending biological activity. Targeted Lipolysis: Stimulates GH/IGF-1 axis with specific effects on visceral adipose tissue mobilization. FDA-Approved Indication: First and only GHRH analog approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (Egrifta). |
| Base Chain | 44-amino-acid linear synthetic polypeptide with N-terminal modification |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S · xC₂H₄O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | ~5195.87 g/mol |
| SMILES | CC/C=C/CC(=O)N[C@@H](CC1=CC=C(C=C1)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(=O)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](C)C(=O)N[C@@H]([C@@H](C)CC)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC2=CC=CC=C2)C(=O)N[C@@H]([C@@H](C)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(=O)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CO)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC3=CC=C(C=C3)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)N[C@@H](C(C)C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(C)C)C(=O)NCC(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(C)C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CO)C(=O)N[C@@H](C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(C)C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(C)C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(=O)O)C(=O)N[C@@H]([C@@H](C)CC)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCSC)C(=O)N[C@@H](CO)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)N)C(=O)NCC(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](CO)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(=O)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCC(=O)O)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)NCC(=O)N[C@@H](C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCNC(=N)N)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC(C)C)C(=O)N |
| SMILES Note | SMILES string may or may not include the acetate counterion. Full structural details are available via PubChem CID 16137828. |
| Purity | ≥99% by HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilized white powder |
Note: Formulation ratios and purity metrics may vary by batch. Always refer to the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) included with your order for exact composition and laboratory-verified specifications.
Tesamorelin: Acetate Salt vs. Free Base Comparison for Researchers
For researchers reviewing the literature, Tesamorelin is available as both a freebase and an acetate salt form. The acetate salt form is the standard research-grade version supplied by SCYRX, offering enhanced solubility and stability for laboratory applications. The freebase reference data is provided below for comparative literature review purposes only.
| Specification | Acetate Salt (SCYRX Supply) | Free Base (Reference Only) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Amino Acids | 44 | 44 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S · xC₂H₄O₂ | C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S |
| Molecular Weight | ~5195.87 g/mol | 5135.86 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 218949-48-5 | 218949-48-5 |
| PubChem CID | 16137828 | 16137828 |
| Form | Acetate Salt | Free Base |
Note: Molecular weights for acetate salt forms are approximate and may vary depending on the number of bound acetate molecules (x) in the salt complex. Values provided are based on the peptide core plus acetate counterions and should be used as a reference for research purposes only. Always refer to the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) for exact molecular weight verification.
Storage and Stability
Lyophilized Tesamorelin should typically be stored at -20°C in a tightly sealed container, protected from light and moisture. Under these conditions, it generally remains stable for up to 24 months from the manufacture date.
Tesamorelin can typically be shipped at room temperature for short periods (up to two weeks) without significant degradation, making it suitable for standard shipping methods.
Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, the solution should be refrigerated at 2-8°C and typically used within 28 days. Researchers should avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and vigorous shaking to maintain peptide integrity.
Research Dosing Considerations
Tesamorelin is typically reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Unlike the 29-amino-acid GHRH analogs which are dosed in micrograms, Tesa protocols typically utilize milligram (mg) quantities (commonly 1mg or 2mg daily in clinical and preclinical visceral fat studies). Because of this higher mass requirement, researchers often use larger reconstitution volumes to allow for precise measurement.
Investigators studying comprehensive metabolic or body-composition protocols frequently research Tesamorelin alongside metabolic regulators like Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, as well as GHRPs like Ipamorelin. Combining Tes (which drives GH/IGF-1 and lipolysis) with a GHRP (which amplifies the GH pulse) is a common strategy in advanced somatotropic research.
Tesamorelin Research FAQ
Q: Is Tesamorelin approved for human use or available for personal consumption?
A: No. Tesamorelin sold by SCYRX is supplied strictly as a research-grade compound for in vitro and preclinical laboratory investigation. It is not intended for human consumption, therapeutic application, or any in vivo human use. All material is sold for laboratory research only.
Q: What is the primary mechanism of Tesamorelin in visceral fat research?
A: Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH). It stimulates the pituitary gland to release endogenous growth hormone, which in turn increases IGF-1 levels. Research indicates this pathway is particularly effective at mobilizing visceral adipose tissue (abdominal fat).
Q: How does Tesamorelin differ from Sermorelin?
A: While both are GHRH analogs, Tesamorelin contains a trans-3-hexenoic acid group at the N-terminus. This modification enhances its stability and binding affinity compared to Sermorelin (which is GRF 1-29), resulting in a more potent and sustained stimulation of GH release in research models.
Q: Why is Tesamorelin frequently studied in metabolic research?
A: Beyond its effects on GH pulsatility, Tesamorelin is extensively researched for its ability to reduce visceral adiposity without significantly affecting subcutaneous fat. This makes it a unique tool for studying the relationship between abdominal fat distribution and metabolic health markers.
Q: Does Tesamorelin cause significant side effects in research models?
A: Research indicates Tesamorelin is generally well-tolerated. The most commonly reported effects in studies are mild injection site reactions and transient joint stiffness. Unlike some other secretagogues, it maintains a favorable profile regarding glucose metabolism in non-diabetic models.
Q: Can Tesamorelin be stacked with Ipamorelin in research protocols?
A: Yes. Combining a GHRH analog (Tesamorelin) with a ghrelin mimetic (Ipamorelin) is a common research strategy to study synergistic GH release. This combination targets two different receptors in the somatotropic axis, often resulting in higher amplitude GH pulses than either compound alone.
Related Products
Researchers studying Tesamorelin frequently reference the following hormonal and performance compounds in companion protocols:
Scientific References and Citations
- Falutz J, Allas M, Blot K, et al. Metabolic effects of a growth hormone-releasing factor in patients with HIV. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(23):2287-2299. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa0710596
- Falutz J, Cavalli M, Tashima K, et al. Long-term safety and efficacy of tesamorelin in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Lancet. 2010;376(9754):1675-1684. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(10)61444-4
- Lessard M, Lown K, Huang W, et al. Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of tesamorelin, a novel GHRH analogue, in healthy volunteers. J Clin Pharmacol. 2012;52(11):1620-1631. doi:10.1177/0091270011428124
- Tashima K, Falutz J, Kotler D, et al. Tesamorelin, a growth hormone-releasing factor, in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. AIDS Patient Care STDS. 2008;22(12):937-946. doi:10.1089/apc.2008.0105
- Walker R, Balfour JA. Tesamorelin: a review of its use in the treatment of HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Drugs. 2011;71(14):1889-1904. doi:10.2165/11207340-000000000-00000
- Mulligan K, Grunfeld C, Tai VW, et al. Tesamorelin for the reduction of visceral adiposity in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2010;54(4):381-388. doi:10.1097/QAI.0b013e3181d8a5b5