Description
Overview
CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) is an engineered, 29-amino-acid synthetic analog of human Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH₁–₂₉). Incorporating four protective amino acid substitutions and a C-terminal maleimidopropionyl linker, the molecule covalently binds to circulating serum albumin in vivo.
This albumin bioconjugation shields the peptide core from Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV (DPP-IV) proteolysis and rapid renal clearance, extending its active half-life to 6–8 days. In laboratory models, CJC-1295 with DAC offers long-lasting stimulation of pituitary GHRH receptors, elevating baseline levels of Growth Hormone (GH) and IGF-1 while preserving natural secretory pulsatility.
Key Technical Specifications
| Sequence | YADAIFTQSYRKVLAQLSARKLLQDIMSR-Lys(maleimidopropionyl)-NH2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₆₅H₂₆₉N₄₇O₄₆ |
| Molecular Weight | ~3647.94 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 863288-34-0 |
| Elimination Half-Life | ~6–8 days (in vivo, human albumin-bound) |
| Solubility | Bacteriostatic Water / Sterile Water |
| Primary Class | Long-Acting GHRH Receptor Agonist (Bioconjugate) |
Biochemical Architecture & Mechanisms
1. Enzymatic Protection & Sequence Substitution
Native GHRH is rapidly inactivated by circulating enzymes. CJC-1295 incorporates specific residue modifications to preserve chemical structure:
- D-Ala² Substitution: Direct resistance to primary DPP-IV catalytic cleavage.
- Gln⁸, Ala¹⁵, Leu²⁷ Modifications: Enhanced structural stability and optimized GHRH receptor binding affinity.
2. Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) Chemistry
The C-terminal maleimidopropionyl linker binds specifically and covalently to the free thiol on Cysteine-34 (Cys³⁴) of endogenous serum albumin. This creates a circulating depot that effectively bypasses early endopeptidase degradation and rapid glomerular filtration.
3. Pituitary & Somatotrophic Axis Activation
- GHRHR Agonism: Stimulates pituitary somatotrophs to elevate cAMP cascades and drive endogenous GH release.
- Extended IGF-1 Secretion: Sustained plasma residence yields prolonged elevations of downstream hepatic IGF-1 output while preserving physiological pulse mechanics.
Pharmacokinetic Literature: Clinical studies (Teichman et al., 2006; Ionescu et al., 2006) confirmed that a single administration of CJC-1295 with DAC produces multi-fold, dose-dependent increases in mean plasma GH and IGF-1 levels spanning 10–14 days.
For laboratory research, educational, and analytical reference only. Strictly not for human or veterinary use.




