CJC-1295 with DAC
A long-acting GHRH analog with albumin-binding modification, studied for sustained growth hormone elevation and IGF-1 effects in research.
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What is CJC-1295 with DAC?
CJC-1295 with DAC is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) modified for substantially extended half-life. It is based on the bioactive 1-29 fragment of native GHRH (the same fragment that comprises sermorelin) with four amino acid substitutions to resist enzymatic degradation, plus a maleimidopropionic acid (MPA) group at the C-terminus. The MPA group, called the Drug Affinity Complex (DAC), forms a covalent bond with cysteine-34 of circulating albumin in vivo, extending plasma half-life from minutes to approximately 8 days.
CJC-1295 with DAC is notable in research as one of the most studied long-acting growth hormone secretagogues. Originally developed by ConjuChem in the early 2000s as part of a broader platform for extending therapeutic peptide half-lives, the compound has been extensively investigated for effects on GH and IGF-1 elevation, body composition, and metabolic parameters. The sustained, non-pulsatile pattern of GH elevation produced by the DAC modification distinguishes it pharmacologically from short-acting GHRH analogs and has been the subject of significant scientific discussion regarding optimal GH signaling patterns.
Mechanism of action
CJC-1295 with DAC’s mechanisms of action have been investigated across multiple pathways:
- GHRH receptor activation: The peptide binds and activates the growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRHR) on pituitary somatotrophs with potency comparable to native GHRH, triggering cAMP-dependent signaling that promotes GH synthesis and secretion.
- Protease resistance via amino acid substitutions: Four amino acid substitutions (D-Ala at position 2, Gln at position 8, Ala at position 15, Leu at position 27) protect the peptide from cleavage by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) and other proteases.
- Albumin binding via the DAC: The MPA group reacts with the free thiol on cysteine-34 of human serum albumin, forming a stable thioether bond that dramatically reduces renal clearance and proteolytic degradation.
- Sustained GH elevation: Unlike pulsatile GHRH signaling, the prolonged plasma residence produces sustained elevation of plasma growth hormone above baseline, a pattern distinct from native GH pulsatility.
- Downstream IGF-1 elevation: Research has documented dose-dependent increases in insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), the primary mediator of growth hormone’s anabolic and metabolic effects.
These pathways are characterized in both preclinical models and limited human research.
Research applications
CJC-1295 with DAC has been investigated across several research domains, with the most active areas including:
- Growth hormone deficiency research: Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical studies examined sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1 following single doses in adult populations with growth hormone deficiency, with research demonstrating prolonged biomarker elevation.
- Body composition research: Studies have examined effects on lean mass, fat mass, and body water composition, drawing on growth hormone’s known anabolic and lipolytic actions in research models.
- Sleep architecture research: Given the established relationship between growth hormone and slow-wave sleep, research has examined whether sustained GHRH stimulation affects sleep parameters in clinical and preclinical contexts.
- Combination protocol research: CJC-1295 with DAC has been studied in combination with growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) acting on the ghrelin receptor, with research examining synergistic effects on GH release from dual receptor activation.
- Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic research: The compound has served as a model for studying the effects of albumin-binding modifications on peptide therapeutics, contributing to broader research on extended half-life peptide design.
This compound is intended for laboratory research use only. It has not been approved for human therapeutic use by any regulatory agency.
Storage & reconstitution
In its lyophilized form, CJC-1295 with DAC tolerates ambient temperatures during shipping but should be stored long-term at -20°C, protected from light. Properly stored lyophilized peptide remains stable for 24 months or longer.
Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water for injection, CJC-1295 with DAC solutions should be stored refrigerated at 2-8°C and used within 28 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can degrade peptide structure and reduce activity.
Visual inspection should be performed before each use. The reconstituted solution should be clear and colorless. Reject any solution that appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particulate matter.
For step-by-step reconstitution calculations, see our reconstitution calculator.
For laboratory research use only. The compound described on this page is intended exclusively for in vitro research and laboratory experimentation by qualified researchers and is not for human or veterinary use. It is not a drug, food, dietary supplement, or cosmetic, and has not been approved by the FDA, Health Canada, EMA, or any other regulatory authority for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, mitigation, or prevention of any disease or medical condition. The information provided on this page is for educational and reference purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. By accessing this content you confirm that you are a qualified researcher purchasing for legitimate laboratory purposes.