Hexarelin
Lab-Tested ≥98% Purity · Certificate of Analysis Included · Global Shipping
Hexarelin — Potent Hexapeptide GH Secretagogue for Cardiac and Endocrine Research
Hexarelin (Examorelin, His-D-2-MeTrp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that acts as a potent agonist of the GHS-R1a (ghrelin) receptor. Developed from the early GHRP series, Hexarelin distinguishes itself through its superior potency and unique dual activity profile: in addition to robust GH release from pituitary somatotrophs, it demonstrates significant cardioprotective effects mediated through both GHS-R1a-dependent and independent pathways. These properties, extensively documented by Ghigo et al. at the University of Turin, make Hexarelin a versatile research tool spanning endocrine, cardiovascular, and neuroprotective research domains.
Mechanism of Action
Hexarelin activates GHS-R1a receptors on anterior pituitary somatotrophs, triggering Gq/11-mediated phospholipase C activation, IP3-dependent calcium mobilization, and subsequent GH exocytosis. Its GH-releasing potency exceeds that of GHRP-6 by approximately 1.5-fold on a molar basis. Uniquely, research published in Endocrinology (2000) identified that Hexarelin also binds CD36 (scavenger receptor class B), a mechanism that mediates its cardioprotective effects independently of GH secretion. This CD36-dependent pathway promotes fatty acid uptake, reduces foam cell formation, and activates PPARγ signaling in cardiac tissue.
Key Research Areas
- Growth Hormone Secretion: Hexarelin produces robust, dose-dependent GH release that is amplified when co-administered with GHRH. Studies in European Journal of Endocrinology have characterized its secretory kinetics, desensitization profile, and utility as a provocative test agent for GH reserve assessment.
- Cardioprotection: Published research in Cardiovascular Research (2003) demonstrated that Hexarelin reduces infarct size and improves post-ischemic cardiac function in Langendorff heart models, with effects mediated through CD36-dependent activation of PPARγ and suppression of NF-κB inflammatory signaling.
- Anti-Atherosclerotic Mechanisms: Through its CD36 binding activity, Hexarelin has been shown to modulate macrophage cholesterol efflux and inhibit oxidized LDL uptake, providing researchers with a unique pharmacological probe for studying scavenger receptor biology in atherosclerosis models.
- Neuroprotective Research: Investigators have documented that Hexarelin protects hippocampal neurons from glutamate-induced excitotoxicity in vitro, with evidence suggesting both GHS-R1a-dependent and independent neuroprotective mechanisms involving PI3K/Akt survival signaling.
Why Researchers Choose Peptides BioLab
Every batch of Hexarelin supplied by Peptides BioLab undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis, ensuring ≥98% purity verified by an independent Certificate of Analysis (CoA). Our Hexarelin is supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability and shelf life, shipped worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities in temperature-controlled packaging.
Related Research Peptides
Researchers studying GH secretagogues and cardiovascular peptide biology may also find these compounds relevant: GHRP-6, GHRP-2, and Ipamorelin. For a complete overview, browse our Growth Hormone Research collection.
For research purposes only — Not for human consumption. All products are intended solely for in-vitro research and laboratory use.
Every Peptides BioLab product includes a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with HPLC and MS data confirming ≥98% purity. The CoA is available in the product tabs as the 2nd image, or contact our team to request a copy.
Shipping: We ship worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities. Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Express and standard shipping options available at checkout.
Storage: Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 30 days. Keep away from direct sunlight.