GHRP-6

GHRP-6 Overview

GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6) Overview: This synthetic hexapeptide serves as a robust stimulator of natural Growth Hormone (GH) secretion. By acting as a ghrelin receptor agonist, GHRP-6 targets the anterior pituitary gland to trigger hormonal release. Over decades of laboratory development, it has emerged as a versatile research tool with documented effects on myocardial protection, memory consolidation, and the preservation of neuronal integrity. Its high selectivity and biological activity make it a primary subject for studies involving aging, metabolic regulation, and neurodegeneration.

GHRP-6 Structure

The chemical configuration of GHRP-6 is specifically engineered for high affinity with the GHS-R1a receptor. Its stability allows for consistent experimental observations across different media.

• Amino Acid Sequence: His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
• Structure Solution Formula: C38H49N9O5
• Molecular Mass: 711.86 g/mol
• Purity Standard: Research Grade

GHRP-6 Effects

1. Memory and Spatial Cognition

GHRP-6 research suggests that the peptide acts as a mediator for cognitive benefits often associated with physical activity. By activating ghrelin receptors in the hippocampus, the peptide facilitates the transition of short-term memories into long-term storage. This makes it a significant interest for research into learning disorders and age-related cognitive decline.

2. Central Nervous System Protection

In animal models, GHRP-6 has demonstrated the ability to shield brain tissue from the damaging effects of a stroke. The peptide works by inhibiting programmed cell death and reducing neuroinflammation, which helps to preserve motor and cognitive functions following an ischemic event.

3. Neurodegenerative Resistance

Studies indicate that GHRP-6 protects dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. In conditions like Parkinson's disease, where these neurons are typically lost, GHRP-6 helps maintain cellular survival and slows the progression of motor dysfunction.

4. Integumentary Repair and Scar Mitigation

GHRP-6 accelerates wound healing by promoting the growth of new blood vessels and ensuring the healthy deposition of collagen. This prevents the formation of disorganized scar tissue, such as keloids, resulting in skin that retains better mechanical strength and appearance.

5. Cardiovascular Support

The peptide protects the heart muscle during reperfusion following an infarction. By reducing oxidant cytotoxicity, GHRP-6 preserves viable heart cells, potentially improving long-term cardiac outcomes in experimental models.

6. Psychological and Behavioral Modulation

Research shows that GHRP-6 influences the brain's reward and motivation pathways. This includes potential applications for treating hypoactive sexual desire and mood disorders like anxiety and depression by regulating stress responses in the central nervous system.

Research Summary Table

Physiological System

Primary Research Finding

Potential Application

Neurological

Reduction of neuroinflammation

Stroke recovery and CNS repair

Cognitive

Solidification of spatial memory

Learning enhancement studies

Cardiovascular

Prevention of myocardial necrosis

Post-infarction tissue survival

Dermatological

Organized collagen deposition

Burn healing and scar prevention

Endocrine

Pituitary GH stimulation

Growth hormone deficiency research

GHRP-6 Storage

For laboratory longevity, GHRP-6 should be stored as follows:

• Lyophilized Powder: Store at -20 degrees Celsius for up to 2 years.
• Reconstituted Solution: Store at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Use within 14 to 21 days for maximum potency. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and direct light exposure.

Author and Scientific Credit

Article Author: Dr. Logan, M.D.

Researched and organized by Dr. Logan, who holds a doctorate from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and a degree in molecular biology.

Scientific Lead: Marta Korbonits

Professor Marta Korbonits is a leading Professor of Endocrinology at Queen Mary University of London. Her work on the ghrelin axis is fundamental to the understanding of GHRP-6. This reference acknowledges her scientific contributions and does not imply any affiliation.

Resourced Citations

1. Huang, C.C., et al. "Acute food deprivation enhances fear extinction but inhibits long-term depression in the lateral amygdala via ghrelin signaling," Neuropharmacology, 2016.
2. Beheshti, S. and Shahrokhi, S. "Blocking the ghrelin receptor type 1a in the rat brain impairs memory encoding," Neuropeptides, 2015.
3. Tóth, K., et al. "Role of intraamygdaloid acylated-ghrelin in spatial learning," Brain Res. Bull., 2010.
4. Sucháč, N., et al. "Assessment of dose-effect and therapeutic time window in preclinical studies of GHRP-6 for stroke therapy," Neurol. Res., 2016.
5. Spencer, S. J., et al. "The Role of Ghrelin in Neuroprotection after Ischemic Brain Injury," Brain Sci., 2013.
6. Sutra, Y., et al. "Down-regulation of ghrelin receptors on dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra contributes to Parkinson's disease-like motor dysfunction," Mol. Brain., 2018.
7. Mendoza-Mari, Y., et al. "Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-6 Enhances the Healing Process and Improves the Esthetic Outcome of the Wound," Plastic Surgery International, 2016.
8. Fernández-Mayola, M., et al. "Growth hormone releasing peptide 6 prevents cutaneous hypertrophic scarring," Int. Wound J., 2018.
9. Berlanga, J., et al. "Growth hormone-releasing peptide 6 (GHRP6) prevents oxidant cytotoxicity and reduces myocardial necrosis," Clin. Sci., 2007.
10. Hyland, L., et al. "Central ghrelin receptor stimulation modulates sex motivation in male rats," Horm. Behav., 2018.
11. Huang, H. J., et al. "The protective effects of Ghrelin/GHSR on hippocampal neurogenesis in CUMS mice," Neuropharmacology, 2019.
12. Korbonits, M. and Grossman, A. B. "Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide and Its Analogues," Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism, 1995.