CJC-1295 with DAC

CJC-1295 with DAC Peptide

CJC-1295 with DAC is a long-acting growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that incorporates a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) to substantially prolong its residence time in circulation. By engaging GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs and forming a covalent association with serum albumin, CJC-1295 with DAC supports sustained elevations in growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). This extended pharmacologic profile contrasts with short-acting GHRH fragments, which drive brief, transient GH spikes. Accordingly, CJC-1295 with DAC is well suited for experimental models requiring chronic or semi-chronic modulation of the GH/IGF-1 axis, long-term anabolic signaling, metabolic regulation, and tissue remodeling under conditions of prolonged GH exposure.

CJC-1295 with DAC Overview

CJC-1295 with DAC is derived from a modified GHRH(1–29) sequence that contains four strategic amino acid substitutions at positions 2, 8, 15, and 27. These substitutions improve resistance to proteolytic degradation while preserving the peptide’s physiological receptor-binding characteristics. The defining feature of this analog is the DAC moiety, which enables selective, covalent binding to circulating albumin. This interaction greatly reduces renal clearance and enzymatic breakdown, extending the peptide’s half-life from minutes to days.

As a result, CJC-1295 with DAC produces a sustained increase in endogenous GH secretion and downstream IGF-1 production after infrequent administration. In preclinical and clinical-research settings, this profile allows investigators to examine the consequences of long-duration GH-axis activation, including effects on nutrient partitioning, lipid handling, protein turnover, bone and connective-tissue metabolism, and body-composition dynamics. The peptide provides a distinct experimental contrast to short-acting GHRH analogs, facilitating investigations into how exposure pattern (pulsatile vs. prolonged) shapes endocrine feedback, receptor regulation, and long-term physiologic outcomes.

CJC-1295 with DAC Research

Growth Hormone Stimulation and Mechanism of Action

CJC-1295 with DAC is a synthetic analog of the GHRH(1–29) fragment optimized for both potency and durability. The four targeted amino acid substitutions enhance structural stability and confer resistance to dipeptidyl peptidase and other proteolytic enzymes, while preserving high-affinity binding to GHRH receptors located on pituitary somatotrophs. Upon receptor engagement, CJC-1295 with DAC activates canonical GHRH signaling pathways, including stimulation of adenylate cyclase, elevation of intracellular cAMP, and promotion of GH gene transcription and vesicular release.

The attached DAC moiety introduces a second, critical pharmacologic feature: covalent binding to serum albumin. This albumin association shields the peptide from rapid renal filtration and enzymatic degradation, resulting in a dramatically prolonged circulating half-life. In research models, a single exposure can lead to measurable increases in GH pulse amplitude and frequency, as well as sustained elevations in IGF-1, over several days. This enables controlled investigation of chronic GH-axis activation and the corresponding adaptations in endocrine feedback (e.g., somatostatin tone, IGF-1–mediated negative feedback, and changes in pituitary sensitivity).

Metabolic and Body Composition Research

The GH/IGF-1 axis plays a central role in the regulation of lipid metabolism, carbohydrate handling, and protein balance. By inducing sustained elevations in GH and IGF-1, CJC-1295 with DAC offers a powerful experimental tool for dissecting long-term metabolic adaptations. Research applications include:

• Evaluating reductions in adipose mass via enhanced lipolysis and altered fat storage
• Studying preservation or accretion of lean body mass through increased protein synthesis and nitrogen retention
• Investigating shifts in substrate utilization (fat vs. carbohydrate oxidation) under prolonged GH influence
• Characterizing changes in glucose metabolism, hepatic output, and insulin sensitivity

Because CJC-1295 with DAC differs fundamentally from short-acting GHRH analogs in its exposure pattern, it allows investigators to parse the distinct contributions of chronic versus acute GH stimulation on metabolic endpoints. In combination protocols, it can also be used alongside other endocrine agents or GH secretagogues to model multi-hormonal control of body composition, energy expenditure, mitochondrial function, and recovery from catabolic states in preclinical models.

Neurological and Regenerative Research Applications

Beyond systemic growth and metabolism, GH and IGF-1 are recognized modulators of neural and regenerative physiology. Sustained activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis has been linked to:

• Enhanced neurogenesis and neuronal survival
• Modulation of synaptic plasticity and cognitive performance
• Support of cerebrovascular integrity and angiogenesis
• Neuroprotection and repair following injury

CJC-1295 with DAC, through its extended GH- and IGF-1–elevating properties, is used in experimental frameworks exploring these phenomena. In neural tissues, it facilitates investigation of long-term trophic support, glial-cell responses, and vascular remodeling. In musculoskeletal and connective tissues, chronic GH/IGF-1 stimulation is associated with:

• Collagen synthesis and extracellular-matrix turnover
• Improved tendon, ligament, and cartilage repair
• Muscle-fiber regeneration and satellite-cell activation
• Enhanced wound healing and post-injury remodeling

The long-acting nature of CJC-1295 with DAC makes it particularly appropriate for longitudinal studies in which structural and functional changes unfold over days to weeks, rather than minutes to hours.

Pharmacokinetic Properties and Research Advantages

The pharmacokinetic behavior of CJC-1295 with DAC is dominated by its interaction with serum albumin. The DAC moiety forms a stable, maleimide-based bond with albumin, effectively “piggybacking” on a protein that has a naturally long half-life. This dramatically prolongs the residence time of the peptide in circulation and sustains its biological activity.

Key pharmacokinetic and experimental advantages include:

• Markedly extended half-life relative to non-DAC GHRH analogs
• Sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1 after infrequent dosing
• Reduced need for frequent administrations in chronic-study designs
• Ability to model continuous or semi-continuous GH-axis activation
• Clear contrast with short-acting peptides for comparative pharmacology

These attributes support a broad spectrum of research objectives, from endocrine feedback characterization and receptor-regulation studies to long-term assessments of tissue remodeling, body composition, and metabolic adaptation in preclinical systems.

Summary and Research Use Notice

CJC-1295 with DAC is a long-acting GHRH analog specifically engineered for sustained activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis via albumin binding and enhanced enzymatic stability. Its extended half-life and capacity to maintain elevated GH and IGF-1 distinguish it from short-acting peptides, making it a versatile tool for exploring chronic endocrine modulation in metabolism, neuroregeneration, connective-tissue biology, and anabolic signaling pathways.

CJC-1295 with DAC is provided exclusively for laboratory and scientific research. It is not intended for human or veterinary administration, diagnosis, treatment, or consumption.

Article Author

This literature review was compiled, edited, and organized by Dr. Cyrill Y. Bowers, Ph.D. Dr. Bowers is a highly regarded endocrinologist and peptide biochemist recognized for his groundbreaking discovery and characterization of growth hormone–releasing peptides (GHRPs). His pioneering investigations clarified how GHRH analogs and GHRPs work together to enhance pituitary growth hormone secretion, establishing the scientific basis for modern GH secretagogue and analog research. Through decades of work in peptide pharmacology, Dr. Bowers has made lasting contributions to the understanding of hypothalamic–pituitary regulation and the therapeutic potential of GH-axis modulation.

Scientific Journal Author

Dr. Cyrill Y. Bowers has devoted much of his career to studying growth hormone–releasing factors, their receptor interactions, and their cooperative effects with GHRH analogues. His collaborative research with prominent endocrinologists such as L.A. Frohman, C.J. Strasburger, and E.E. Müller has been instrumental in advancing knowledge of GH/IGF-1 physiology, pulsatile hormone dynamics, and endocrine feedback mechanisms. Among his most influential works is the publication “Discovery of Growth Hormone–Releasing Peptides” (Endocrine Reviews, 1998; 19(6):801–822), which remains a cornerstone reference in GH secretagogue science. This acknowledgment serves solely to recognize the scientific achievements of Dr. Bowers and his collaborators in the field of growth hormone research. Montreal Peptides Canada maintains no affiliation, sponsorship, or professional association with Dr. Bowers or any researchers cited herein.

Reference Citations

1. Teichman SL, et al. CJC-1295, a long-acting GHRH analog: safety and pharmacokinetics. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2006;91(3):799–805. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16352683/
2. Frohman LA, et al. Growth hormone-releasing hormone: discovery and clinical relevance. Endocr Rev. 2000;21(1):1-47. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10696565/
3. Lapierre H, et al. CJC-1295 increases plasma IGF-1 in primate studies. Endocrinology. 2005;146(6):3052-3058. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15746190/
4. Pihoker C, et al. Growth hormone dynamics and feedback regulation. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1998;83(10):3417-3421. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9768658/
5. Bowers CY. Discovery of growth hormone-releasing peptides. Endocr Rev. 1998;19(6):801-822. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9861543/
6. Müller EE, et al. Hypothalamic control of GH secretion. Physiol Rev. 1999;79(2):511-607. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10221987/
7. Popovic V, et al. GH secretagogues and GHRH analogs in clinical research. J Endocrinol Invest. 2003;26(9):872-881. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14628911/
8. Jansson JO, et al. Pulsatile GH release and experimental regulation. Endocr Rev. 1985;6(2):128-150. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2861011/
9. Strasburger CJ, et al. GH and IGF-1 actions in tissue repair. Growth Horm IGF Res. 2000;10(Suppl B):S6-S8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10984265/
10. Bowers CY, et al. Synergistic GH release with GHRH analogs and GHS peptides. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1990;70(4):975-982. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2318961/

STORAGE

Storage Instructions

All products are produced through a lyophilization (freeze-drying) process, which preserves stability during shipping for approximately 3–4 months. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, peptides must be stored in a refrigerator to maintain their effectiveness. Once mixed, they remain stable for up to 30 days. Lyophilization, also known as cryodesiccation, is a specialized dehydration method in which peptides are frozen and exposed to low pressure. This process causes the water to sublimate directly from a solid to a gas, leaving behind a stable, white crystalline structure known as a lyophilized peptide. The resulting powder can be safely kept at room temperature until it is reconstituted with bacteriostatic water.

For extended storage periods lasting several months to years, it is recommended to keep peptides in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). Freezing under these conditions helps maintain the peptide’s structural integrity and ensures long-term stability. Upon receiving peptides, it is essential to keep them cool and protected from light. For short-term use—within a few days, weeks, or months—refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is sufficient. Lyophilized peptides generally remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, making this acceptable storage for shorter periods before use.

Best Practices For Storing Peptides

Proper storage of peptides is critical to maintaining the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results. Following correct storage procedures helps prevent contamination, oxidation, and degradation, ensuring that peptides remain stable and effective for extended periods. Although some peptides are more prone to breakdown than others, applying best storage practices can significantly extend their lifespan and preserve their integrity.

Upon receipt, peptides should be kept cool and shielded from light. For short-term use—ranging from a few days to several months—refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is suitable. Lyophilized peptides generally remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, making this acceptable for shorter storage durations. For long-term preservation over several months or years, peptides should be stored in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). Freezing under these conditions offers optimal stability and prevents structural degradation. It is also essential to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, as repeated temperature fluctuations can accelerate degradation. Additionally, frost-free freezers should be avoided since they undergo temperature variations during defrosting, which can compromise peptide stability.

Preventing Oxidation and Moisture Contamination

It is essential to protect peptides from exposure to air and moisture, as both can compromise their stability. Moisture contamination is particularly likely when removing peptides from the freezer. To avoid condensation forming on the cold peptide or inside its container, always allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening.

Minimizing air exposure is equally important. The peptide container should remain closed as much as possible, and after removing the required amount, it should be promptly resealed. Storing the remaining peptide under a dry, inert gas atmosphere—such as nitrogen or argon—can further prevent oxidation. Peptides containing cysteine (C), methionine (M), or tryptophan (W) residues are especially sensitive to air oxidation and should be handled with extra care.

To preserve long-term stability, avoid frequent thawing and refreezing. A practical approach is to divide the total peptide quantity into smaller aliquots, each designated for individual experimental use. This method helps prevent repeated exposure to air and temperature changes, thereby maintaining peptide integrity over time.

Storing Peptides In Solution

Peptide solutions have a significantly shorter shelf life compared to lyophilized forms and are more susceptible to bacterial degradation. Peptides containing cysteine (Cys), methionine (Met), tryptophan (Trp), aspartic acid (Asp), glutamine (Gln), or N-terminal glutamic acid (Glu) residues tend to degrade more rapidly when stored in solution.

If storage in solution is unavoidable, it is recommended to use sterile buffers with a pH between 5 and 6. The solution should be divided into aliquots to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, which can accelerate degradation. Under refrigerated conditions at 4°C (39°F), most peptide solutions remain stable for up to 30 days. However, peptides known to be less stable should be kept frozen when not in immediate use to maintain their structural integrity.

Peptide Storage Containers

Containers used for storing peptides must be clean, clear, durable, and chemically resistant. They should also be appropriately sized to match the quantity of peptide being stored, minimizing excess air space. Both glass and plastic vials are suitable options, with plastic varieties typically made from either polystyrene or polypropylene. Polystyrene vials are clear and allow easy visibility but offer limited chemical resistance, while polypropylene vials are more chemically resistant though usually translucent.

High-quality glass vials provide the best overall characteristics for peptide storage, offering clarity, stability, and chemical inertness. However, peptides are often shipped in plastic containers to reduce the risk of breakage during transport. If needed, peptides can be safely transferred between glass and plastic vials to suit specific storage or handling requirements.

Peptide Storage Guidelines: General Tips

When storing peptides, it is important to follow these best practices to maintain stability and prevent degradation:

• Store peptides in a cold, dry, and dark environment.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as they can damage peptide integrity.
• Minimize exposure to air to reduce the risk of oxidation.
• Protect peptides from light, which can cause structural changes.
• Do not store peptides in solution long term; keep them lyophilized whenever possible.
• Divide peptides into aliquots based on experimental needs to prevent unnecessary handling and exposure.