GHRP-6

GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide 6) is the first-generation synthetic ghrelin mimetic, developed in the late 1980s by Cyril Bowers (Tulane University). Six-amino acid structure (His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys) binding the GHS-R1a receptor and triggering potent growth hormone release from the pituitary. A characteristic feature is pronounced hunger as a side effect — GHRP-6 strongly stimulates ghrelin signaling, distinguishing it from selective Ipamorelin. In research protocols this can be an advantage (appetite regulation, cachexia, anorexia nervosa studies) or disadvantage (unwanted side effect). Published research also documents anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective effects, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. GHRP-6 played a fundamental historical role — ghrelin itself was discovered thanks to it (Kojima et al., 1999). Half-life ~30 minutes. Storage: -20°C lyophilized, stable 28 days reconstituted at 2-8°C.