CJC‑1295 No DAC: A Research Peptide for Pulsatile Growth Hormone Stimulation

Introduction

CJC‑1295 no DAC is a synthetic analogue of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) designed specifically for research applications. Unlike its DAC-containing counterpart, the no DAC variant lacks a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC), resulting in a shorter half-life and a pulsatile growth hormone (GH) release profile. This makes it particularly useful for experimental models that aim to mimic natural GH secretion dynamics.

This article provides a detailed overview of CJC‑1295 no DAC, including its molecular structure, mechanism of action, research applications, handling guidelines, safety considerations, and limitations. This information is intended solely for educational and research purposes.

What Is CJC‑1295 No DAC?

Definition and Origin

CJC‑1295 is a synthetic GHRH analogue (also referred to as GRF 1‑29). The “no DAC” version omits the DAC moiety, which in other variants prolongs the peptide’s half-life. By avoiding continuous GH exposure, CJC‑1295 no DAC supports pulsatile GH secretion, closely reflecting endogenous physiological patterns.

Molecular and Structural Profile

• Molecular Weight: ~3,367–3,368 g/mol
• Chemical Formula: C₁₅₂H₂₅₂N₄₄O₄₂ (approximate)
• Formulation: Lyophilized powder with ≥98–99% purity
• Intended Use: Research use only; not for human consumption

The short-acting nature of no DAC makes it a preferred choice for studies requiring precise timing of GH release.

Mechanism of Action

CJC‑1295 no DAC primarily acts through the GHRH receptor (GHRH-R) on anterior pituitary somatotrophs:

1. GHRH Receptor Activation: Binding triggers a cAMP-mediated signaling cascade, stimulating endogenous GH release.
2. IGF‑1 Production: GH acts on the liver and other tissues to induce Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF‑1) synthesis, mediating downstream anabolic and metabolic effects.
3. Pulsatile GH Release: Rapid clearance of the peptide helps preserve receptor sensitivity, maintain feedback loops, and replicate natural GH pulse patterns.
4. Synergy with GH Secretagogues: In preclinical models, co-administration with peptides like Ipamorelin or GHRP-6 may enhance GH pulses by engaging both GHRH and ghrelin receptor pathways.

Research Applications

CJC‑1295 no DAC is widely utilized in experimental and preclinical research settings:

• Endocrine Research: Investigating GH secretion dynamics and feedback mechanisms
• IGF‑1 Signaling Studies: Understanding anabolic and metabolic pathways
• Peptide Interaction Studies: Evaluating secretagogue combinations or GH modulation strategies
• Pulsatile GH Modeling: Mimicking physiological GH release for time-sensitive studies

Due to limited human data, clinical translation remains speculative, and all applications should be confined to controlled research environments.

Handling and Storage Guidelines

Proper handling is essential to maintain peptide integrity:

• Storage: Lyophilized peptide should be kept at –20 °C or colder.
• Reconstitution: Use sterile water or bacteriostatic water; aliquot to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
• pH Considerations: Mild acidic buffers (pH ~5–7) may improve solubility.
• Experimental Use: Follow strict laboratory protocols to ensure reproducibility and peptide stability.

Safety and Limitations

• CJC‑1295 no DAC is strictly for research use and is not approved for human therapeutic applications.
• Limited clinical and long-term safety data exist.
• Anecdotal reports from peptide communities include transient flushing or hypotension when co-administered with other secretagogues.
• Researchers must adhere to institutional safety guidelines, regulatory frameworks, and ethical practices.

Choosing Quality Suppliers

When sourcing CJC‑1295 no DAC:

• Verify Certificates of Analysis (COA) and purity reports
• Confirm third-party testing and batch traceability
• Avoid vendors promoting human use or making unsubstantiated claims
• Ensure proper cold-chain shipping and storage

Conclusion

CJC‑1295 no DAC is a research-focused GHRH analogue that provides pulsatile stimulation of endogenous growth hormone, making it a valuable tool for endocrine, peptide, and IGF‑1 research. By omitting the DAC moiety, it allows for precise, time-controlled studies of GH secretion, receptor dynamics, and downstream signaling pathways.

While preclinical evidence highlights its potential in modeling physiological GH pulses, clinical translation remains speculative. Its use is best restricted to carefully controlled research environments where dosing, timing, and experimental variables can be rigorously monitored.