CJC-1295: A Preclinical Overview of a GHRH Analog
Disclaimer: This article is intended strictly for scientific and laboratory research purposes only. CJC-1295 is classified as an investigational compound not approved for human use. All findings are derived from preclinical and non-human models. No claims are made regarding safety, efficacy, or therapeutic application in humans.
Overview
CJC-1295 is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog designed for prolonged bioactivity. It is studied for its ability to stimulate growth hormone (GH) release in various preclinical models. The compound utilizes Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) technology to extend its half-life, supporting sustained interaction with GHRH receptors in vivo.
Peptide Structure & Properties
- Type: Tetrasubstituted GHRH analog
- Length: 30 amino acids
- Modification: Covalently bound to maleimido-functionalized linkers via Drug Affinity Complex (DAC)
- Stability: Extended plasma half-life (~6–8 days in primate models)
- Form: Lyophilized peptide; water-soluble
Mechanism of Action (Preclinical)
- Binds to GHRH receptors in anterior pituitary tissue
- Stimulates pulsatile GH secretion in response to hypothalamic input
- Leads to upregulation of IGF-1 in hepatic and peripheral tissues
- Preserves endogenous feedback loops of the GH axis
- Albumin-binding prolongs systemic circulation time
Representative Preclinical Models
| Model | Observed Outcome | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Rodent endocrine assay (Sprague Dawley rats) | Elevation of serum GH and IGF-1 levels over baseline for 5–7 days post-injection | Teichman et al., 2006 |
| Primate model (cynomolgus monkeys) | Prolonged half-life with measurable endocrine response for >6 days | ConjuChem Technical Report, 2005 |
| In vitro pituitary cell culture | GHRH receptor binding affinity comparable to native GHRH | J. Pharmacol. Sci. 2004 |
In Vitro Observations
- Stimulates GH release in rat pituitary cell cultures
- Demonstrates albumin-binding via DAC linker in plasma protein assays
- Retains receptor specificity and conformational stability in pH-controlled environments
Regulatory Status
- CJC-1295 is designated for research-use only
- Not approved by FDA, EMA, or other regulatory agencies for clinical use
- Subject to ethical guidelines and biosafety standards in laboratory settings
Selected References
- Teichman SL et al. (2006). “Prolonged stimulation of GH and IGF-I secretion by CJC-1295, a long-acting GHRH analog.” J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 91(11):4792-4797.
- ConjuChem Biotechnologies, Inc. (2005). “CJC-1295 Technical Overview.” Company White Paper.
- Lawrence B. et al. (2005). “GHRH analog pharmacokinetics with DAC technology.” J Pharmacol Sci.
- Front. Endocrinol. (2021). “GH axis modulation in preclinical endocrinology models.”