GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-6) is a synthetic hexapeptide and one of the earliest characterised growth hormone secretagogues in preclinical research. Defined by the amino acid sequence His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2, GHRP-6 has a molecular formula of C46H56N12O6 and a molecular weight of 873.01 g/mol. The incorporation of a D-tryptophan residue at position 2 is considered central to its binding affinity and selectivity at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). Produced via solid-phase peptide synthesis, GHRP-6 (CAS 87616-84-0) remains a foundational reference compound in the laboratory investigation of the growth hormone axis.

GHRP-6 features extensively in preclinical endocrinology and receptor pharmacology research. Published in vitro studies in primary cultured ovine and rat pituitary somatotroph cell lines have examined GHS-R1a receptor activation and downstream intracellular signalling cascades, characterising intracellular cAMP accumulation, voltage-gated calcium channel dependency, and differential PKC versus PKA pathway contributions to GH secretion [1]. In vivo rodent model studies have investigated the compound’s role in modulating GH pulse amplitude and frequency, with particular attention to its synergistic interaction with endogenous GHRH within the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and the broader somatotropic regulatory network [2]. Its well-characterised receptor profile and consistent use as a benchmark secretagogue have made GHRP-6 a key reference compound when evaluating second and third generation analogues across the secretagogue class.

GHRP-6 is manufactured in a cGMP compliant laboratory to a guaranteed purity of 98% or above. Every batch is independently tested using HPLC and MS-UPLC analysis before dispatch. Vials are vacuum sealed and stored in a temperature controlled, monitored cold storage system. Certificates of Analysis are available on request.

Sold strictly for in vitro research purposes only. Not for human consumption. Intended for use by qualified researchers in laboratory settings only.

Editorial Team

Dr. Martina Rossi, PhD

Scientific Contributor and Reviewer

Reviewed and approved 14 June 2026

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