GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) Primary Function: Growth hormone stimulation, appetite enhancement, anabolic research Research Use: GH/IGF-1 axis studies, muscle growth, recovery, aging research Molecular Formula: C45H55N9O6 CAS Number: 158861-67-7 Synonyms: KP-102, GHRP2, Growth Hormone Secretagogue Description: GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates the endogenous release of growth hormone (GH) through ghrelin receptor activation (GHS-R1a). Known for its potency, GHRP-2 increases GH and IGF-1 levels, promotes anabolic recovery, and enhances appetite in a dose-dependent manner. It is commonly researched for its ability to support muscle repair, immune modulation, and anti-aging mechanisms, particularly in subjects with GH deficiency or age-related hormonal decline. Mechanism of Action: Binds to GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptors) in the hypothalamus and pituitary Stimulates pulsatile GH release, increasing downstream IGF-1 production Enhances appetite and food intake via ghrelin-mimicking activity Does not suppress natural GH feedback mechanisms Key Research Areas: GH deficiency and hormone replacement models Sarcopenia and anabolic research Recovery from injury or surgery Appetite stimulation and body mass support History of Discovery: GHRP-2 was developed in the early 1990s as a second-generation growth hormone-releasing peptide, offering stronger GH stimulation than GHRP-6 but with reduced prolactin and cortisol elevation. It played a pivotal role in the development of non-GHRH-based GH secretagogues, opening the door to broader endocrine and appetite-regulation research. Case Studies: GH/IGF-1 Elevation in Adults (1997, JCEM): GHRP-2 increased GH secretion by up to 6-fold over baseline and significantly raised IGF-1 levels in healthy subjects. [J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1997;82(11):3572–3577.] Cachexia and Muscle Preservation (2004, Peptides): Rodents with muscle wasting experienced improved lean body mass and appetite restoration with daily GHRP-2. [Peptides. 2004;25(8):1323–1330.] Pediatric GH Deficiency Trials (2009, Growth Horm IGF Res): Children with GH deficiency showed enhanced height velocity and improved serum IGF-1 with GHRP-2 therapy. [Growth Horm IGF Res. 2009;19(2):144–150.] Packaging Information: Form: Lyophilized powder Purity: ≥ 99% Storage: Store at -20°C in a dry, dark environment For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.