Activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis through CJC-1295 – a long-acting GHRH analog

Source: Sackmann-Sala L. et al., Growth Hormone & IGF Research , 2009, 10.1016/j.ghir.2009.02.004


Purpose of the study

To evaluate the effect of CJC-1295 – a long-acting analog of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) – on the activity of the GH/IGF-1 axis and its associated biomarkers in humans.

CJC-1295 is a modified GHRH peptide with an extended plasma half-life that stimulates endogenous secretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). The study aims to determine whether the peptide provides sustained activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis and whether serum biomarkers of hormonal response can be identified.


Study design

  • Type: clinical, experimental study in humans

  • Participants: healthy volunteers (male and female)

  • Interventions:

    • A single subcutaneous injection of CJC-1295

    • Control group without treatment

  • Doses: 30–60 µg/kg (single administration)

  • Duration of follow-up: up to 14 days after injection

  • Measured parameters:

    • Serum levels of GH and IGF-1

    • Proteomic changes (biomarkers in plasma)

    • Signatures of GH/IGF-1 activation


Main results

Activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis

  • CJC-1295 causes significant and sustained increases in GH and IGF-1.

  • GH peaks are observed within 2–6 hours after injection, and IGF-1 remains above basal levels for up to 10–14 days.

  • The increase is dose-dependent and shows a prolonged action compared to standard GHRH analogues.

Proteomic changes

  • Serum proteins have been identified whose expression changes after administration of CJC-1295.

  • Biomarkers of GH/IGF-1 activity have been identified, suitable for monitoring the therapeutic effect.

Biochemical indicators

  • No clinically significant changes in glucose, insulin, or liver enzymes were observed.

  • The hormonal response is physiological and controlled.

Tolerance

  • CJC-1295 is very well tolerated.

  • There were no serious side effects or signs of systemic toxicity.


Conclusions

  • CJC-1295 activates the GH/IGF-1 axis in a sustained and dose-dependent manner.

  • Proven to increase GH and IGF-1 within weeks of a single administration.

  • Provides prolonged action and less frequent dosing compared to conventional GHRH peptides.

  • Suitable for research purposes related to hormonal activation and anabolic processes.


Restrictions

  • Small number of participants.

  • Short follow-up period – long-term data is lacking.

  • Patients with GH deficiency or metabolic disorders were not included.


Practical importance

  • CJC-1295 is a promising long-acting GHRH analog.

  • Suitable for research on the GH/IGF-1 axis, models of GH deficiency and muscle regeneration studies.

  • It can be used in controlled laboratory conditions for pharmacodynamic studies.