CJC-1295 (No DAC)
CJC-1295 (No DAC) represents a significant advancement in synthetic endocrinology. As a 30-amino acid analog of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH), it acts as a selective agonist for GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs. Its mechanism focuses on the induction of pulsatile growth hormone (GH) release, leading to a cascade that stimulates the production of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1).
The "No DAC" variant is engineered specifically for research environments that require transient hormone elevation. By excluding the Drug Affinity Complex, the peptide avoids covalent albumin binding, ensuring a shorter half-life. This profile enables investigators to precisely replicate natural hormone cycles without the prolonged elevation typically associated with long-acting GHRH derivatives.
CJC-1295 (No DAC) Overview
Historically known as Modified GRF 1-29, CJC-1295 (No DAC) is an optimized fragment of the native GHRH hormone. It contains four critical amino acid substitutions at positions 2, 8, 15, and 27. These substitutions are designed to block the degradation pathways of enzymes like dipeptidyl peptidase-4, significantly increasing the peptide's metabolic stability while maintaining full receptor efficacy.
The lack of a DAC linkage allows this compound to be utilized in experimental designs focused on pulsatile secretion. This makes it a preferred choice for studying the physiological GH release patterns that are essential for metabolic health. It is frequently co-administered with other growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) like Ipamorelin to explore synergistic pathways in metabolism and tissue regeneration.
CJC-1295 (No DAC) Structure
The molecular design of CJC-1295 (No DAC) provides a stable framework for endocrine research, utilizing a sequence optimized for receptor affinity and enzymatic resistance.
Molecular Structure Formula:
Tyr-D-Ala-Asp-Ala-Ile-Phe-Thr-Gln-Ser-Tyr-Arg-Lys-Val-Leu-Ala-Gln-Leu-Ser-Ala-Arg-Lys-Leu-Leu-Gln-Asp-Ile-Leu-Ser-Arg-NH2
Peptide Profile Table
Parameter
Detail
Sequence
Tyr-D-Ala-Asp-Ala-Ile-Phe-Thr-Gln-Ser-Tyr-Arg-Lys-Val-Leu-Ala-Gln-Leu-Ser-Ala-Arg-Lys-Leu-Leu-Gln-Asp-Ile-Leu-Ser-Arg-NH2
Molecular Weight
3367.97 g/mol
Number of Residues
30 Amino Acids
Primary Target
GHRH Receptor (Pituitary)
Half-Life
Short (Transient)
CJC-1295 (No DAC) Research
Endocrine Modulation and GH Pulsatility
CJC-1295 (No DAC) is a vital tool for exploring the dynamics of the pituitary gland. Unlike sustained-release agonists, the No DAC variant produces discrete pulses that mirror natural rhythms. Research suggests this pulsatile action helps avoid receptor desensitization and negative feedback loops, providing a more accurate model for long-term endocrine health studies.
Metabolism and Adipocyte Research
Elevated IGF-1 levels induced by CJC-1295 (No DAC) are central to metabolic research. Investigators focus on:
- Lipid Metabolism: The role of the GH axis in accelerating fat oxidation.
- Nitrogen Retention: Investigating how transient GH pulses support muscle tissue preservation.
- Nutrient Partitioning: How the peptide influences the direction of energy toward lean tissue rather than adipose storage.
Synergy with Secretagogues
The combination of CJC-1295 (No DAC) with peptides like Ipamorelin is a major area of scientific interest. This combination targets two different receptors—the GHRH receptor and the Ghrelin receptor—to produce a magnified GH pulse. These "stacking" protocols allow for the investigation of maximal physiological repair and energy expenditure in laboratory models.
Tissue Regeneration and Repair
The GH/IGF-1 axis is instrumental in systemic repair. CJC-1295 (No DAC) is used in studies of:
- Connective Tissue: Researching the synthesis of collagen and the repair of ligaments.
- Vascular Remodeling: Investigating the role of GH in angiogenesis.
- Neurological Recovery: Exploring the neurotrophic effects of IGF-1 on brain health and neurogenesis.
Summary and Research Use Notice
CJC-1295 (No DAC) is a specialized research peptide used to investigate GH pulsatility and anabolic signaling. Its utility spans endocrinology, metabolic research, and regenerative medicine.
CJC-1295 (No DAC) is supplied exclusively for laboratory and scientific research purposes. It is not intended for human or veterinary administration.
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. Among his most influential works is the publication “Discovery of Growth Hormone–Releasing Peptides” (Endocrine Reviews, 1998; 19(6):801–822). Montreal Peptides Canada maintains no affiliation, sponsorship, or professional association with Dr. Bowers or any researchers cited herein.
Storage Instructions
Preservation Guidelines
To maintain the accuracy of research data, proper storage is paramount. Peptides are sensitive to air, light, and temperature fluctuations.
- Dry Storage: Lyophilized powder should be stored in a freezer at -80 degrees Celsius for long-term preservation.
- Short-Term: Refrigeration below 4 degrees Celsius is acceptable for several months.
- Light Protection: Vials should be kept in a dark container to prevent photodegradation.
Reconstitution and Solutions
Once reconstituted, the peptide becomes significantly more unstable.
- Solution Life: Refrigerated solutions remain viable for up to 30 days.
- Handling: Do not shake the vial; use gentle rotation to dissolve.
- Moisture Control: Always allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening the seal to prevent condensation and moisture contamination, which can lead to rapid oxidation.