AOD-9604

Overview

AOD‑9604 is a 16‑amino‑acid fragment derived from the C‑terminus of growth hormone (residues 177–191 with an added N‑terminal tyrosine). It was developed to study lipid‑metabolism pathways attributed to this region while minimizing classical growth‑hormone effects. Published work spans in‑vitro systems, animal models, and early clinical exploration focused on fat metabolism and energy balance.

Mechanism of Action (Research Context)

Evidence from preclinical and early clinical literature indicates modulation of lipid handling via β‑adrenergic pathways, with signals consistent with increased lipolysis and reduced lipogenesis. Summaries report little to no change in IGF‑1, suggesting activity distinct from the canonical GH/IGF‑1 axis. Findings vary by model, dose, and study design.

Reported Findings in the Literature

The following points consolidate outcomes commonly described across studies and reviews. Exact magnitude and reproducibility depend on protocol, population, and duration:

• Stimulates fat breakdown (lipolysis): activation of pathways associated with mobilizing stored fatty acids for energy.

• Inhibits fat creation (anti‑lipogenic signals): down‑regulation of processes linked to new fat cell formation and triglyceride storage.

• Increases metabolic activity: observations consistent with higher energy expenditure in several models.

• Targets adipose depots: reports describe preferential effects on stubborn or abdominal fat in some trials.

• Muscle preservation signals: weight‑management studies emphasize fat‑focused effects with limited impact on lean mass.

• Glycemic/IGF‑1 profile: summaries frequently note minimal effect versus full‑length GH in short‑term observations.

Key Research‑Context Takeaways

• Weight‑management research focus centered on fat reduction rather than increases in lean tissue.

• Signals consistent with metabolic‑rate support observed in multiple models.

• Short‑term tolerability generally favorable; efficacy outcomes mixed across longer studies.

Chemical / Physical Information

• Sequence: Tyr‑Leu‑Arg‑Ile‑Val‑Gln‑Cys‑Arg‑Ser‑Val‑Glu‑Gly‑Ser‑Cys‑Gly‑Phe (16 aa) • Approx. molecular weight: ~1815 Da • Handling (general peptide guidance): store lyophilized material at −20 °C, protected from moisture/light; aliquot reconstituted solutions and avoid repeated freeze–thaw.

Notes on Formats Studied

Across the literature, AOD‑9604 has been evaluated in various experimental formats, including subcutaneous administration and oral formulations. Formulation, dosing, and endpoints differ by study and should be interpreted within each protocol’s design.

Regulatory & Compliance Notes

Referenced by anti‑doping organizations and not approved as an obesity therapy by major health authorities. Acquisition and use must follow applicable laws and institutional policies. Verify status before any regulated activity.

References (Selection)

• Endocrinology (2001): lipid metabolism and β‑adrenergic context. • Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism (2013–2014): safety/tolerability summaries and IGF‑1 observations. • Obesity pharmacotherapy reviews (2013–2015): efficacy overview across trials. • Compound databases (e.g., PubChem) for identifiers and mass. • Anti‑doping organization statements/lists for status in sport.

Disclaimer

This is only intended for research purposes only. None of this is intended for consumption. This is only for educational purposes.

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Selected References

PMID: 18469936 — AOD-9604 mechanisms in fat metabolism and lipolysis

PMID: 20826578 — Growth-hormone–related peptides and metabolic regulation

PMID: 21753056 — Peptide modulation of visceral adiposity and body composition

PMID: 25826926 — Endocrine and metabolic outcomes of GH-axis analogs

Frontiers in Endocrinology — Peptide-based metabolic therapeutics

Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism — GH-derivative peptides and metabolic effects

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is AOD-9604?A1: AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (hGH 176-191) studied for its potential effects on lipid metabolism and fat-oxidation pathways in research settings.

Q2: How does AOD-9604 work in research models?A2: AOD-9604 interacts with metabolic signaling related to fat breakdown and energy use without activating full GH receptor pathways, making it unique for studying selective metabolic effects.

Q3: Is AOD-9604 approved for human or medical use?A3: No. AOD-9604 discussed here is a research compound and is not approved for therapeutic or general consumer use.

Q4: What are researchers studying AOD-9604 for?A4: Research evaluates AOD-9604 in contexts involving fat metabolism, adipocyte signaling, and energy balance in controlled experimental models.

Q5: How is AOD-9604 different from full growth hormone?A5: AOD-9604 is a short peptide fragment that does not stimulate IGF-1 production or systemic GH activity, allowing researchers to isolate GH-independent metabolic pathways.

Q6: How is AOD-9604 evaluated in studies?A6: AOD-9604 is examined using in vitro metabolic assays and animal models that track fat oxidation, adipocyte response, and energy utilization.

Q7: Are there known effects or side effects in research settings?A7: Studies report variable responses depending on model and dosing, and long-term safety is not established for human use.

Related Research Compounds

• Tesamorelin

• Retatrutide

• BPC-157

• TB-500

• GHK-Cu