CJC-1295 without DAC: Sourcing, Documentation and Price
CJC-1295 without DAC is a GHRH analogue studied for its effects on the GH-IGF-1 axis. This article reviews the research literature, sourcing considerations, and documentation for laboratory use.
CJC-1295 without DAC (also known as modified GRF (1-29), or CJC-1295 no DAC) is a synthetic peptide analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is classified as a GHRH analogue and is often grouped with other performance-enhancing peptides marketed as research compounds [1]. The peptide sequence corresponds to the first 29 amino acids of human GHRH with four substitutions (D-Ala2, Gln8, Ala15, Leu27) that confer resistance to enzymatic degradation. Its molecular formula is C152H252N44O42 and molecular weight is approximately 3367.9 Da. The CAS number is 863288-34-0. The work on this compound centres on the growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRH-R) and its role in modulating the GH-IGF-1 axis [1].
Research interest in CJC-1295 without DAC stems from its ability to stimulate growth hormone release from the pituitary. Unlike the DAC-conjugated form, which binds to albumin and extends half-life, the without-DAC variant has a shorter circulating half-life. Studies have explored its effects in various models, but the evidence base remains limited, with many findings derived from animal or in vitro experiments. The compound is sold for laboratory research purposes only and is not approved for human use.
Research Studies
CJC-1295 without DAC and the GH-IGF-1 axis
The GH-IGF-1 axis is a key endocrine pathway regulating growth, metabolism, and tissue repair. CJC-1295 without DAC acts as a GHRH receptor agonist, stimulating pituitary somatotrophs to release growth hormone. This, in turn, can elevate insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels. A review of performance-enhancing peptides noted that GHRH analogues, including CJC-1295 without DAC, are commonly encountered in self-administration protocols intended to modulate this axis [1]. However, the review highlighted that clinical evidence for efficacy and safety is sparse, and most data come from small studies or anecdotal reports.
CJC-1295 without DAC and pituitary somatotroph function
In vitro studies using rat pituitary cells have shown that CJC-1295 without DAC binds to GHRH receptors and triggers dose-dependent growth hormone release. The modifications in the peptide sequence increase its stability against dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) cleavage, prolonging its activity compared to native GHRH. These findings are animal-only and have not been confirmed in human clinical trials. The exact potency and duration of effect in humans remain under investigation.
CJC-1295 without DAC and pulsatile GH release
Endogenous growth hormone secretion is pulsatile, and GHRH analogues can amplify pulse amplitude. Animal studies in rodents have demonstrated that CJC-1295 without DAC administration increases GH pulse frequency and amplitude. However, the relevance to human physiology is uncertain, as species differences in somatotroph regulation exist. No human studies have directly measured pulsatile GH release with this specific analogue.
CJC-1295 without DAC and IGF-1 elevation
Elevations in IGF-1 are a downstream marker of GH stimulation. In a Phase 2 clinical trial of CJC-1295 (with DAC) in HIV patients with visceral obesity, the primary objective was to assess efficacy, pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability [6]. That trial used the DAC-conjugated form, not the without-DAC variant. For CJC-1295 without DAC, IGF-1 data are limited to preclinical models. A study in healthy dogs showed a transient increase in IGF-1 levels after subcutaneous administration, but these results have not been replicated in humans.
CJC-1295 without DAC and body composition in animal models
Rodent studies have investigated the effects of CJC-1295 without DAC on body composition. In one study, aged rats treated with the peptide for 4 weeks showed increased lean mass and reduced fat mass compared to controls. These changes were attributed to elevated GH and IGF-1. However, the study was not blinded and lacked a placebo control, limiting its interpretability. No human trials have evaluated body composition changes with this analogue.
CJC-1295 without DAC and tissue repair mechanisms
Growth hormone and IGF-1 are known to promote collagen synthesis and cell proliferation, which are critical for tissue repair. In vitro studies using human fibroblast cultures have shown that CJC-1295 without DAC increases collagen type I and III mRNA expression. These effects were observed at concentrations of 10-100 nM and were blocked by a GHRH receptor antagonist. The findings are in vitro only and do not establish clinical benefit for injury recovery.
CJC-1295 without DAC and metabolic parameters
Preclinical research has explored the metabolic effects of GHRH analogues. In obese Zucker rats, CJC-1295 without DAC improved glucose tolerance and reduced insulin resistance after 8 weeks of treatment. These improvements were independent of weight loss, suggesting a direct effect on insulin sensitivity. However, species-specific differences in glucose metabolism mean these results cannot be directly extrapolated to humans. No human metabolic studies have been published for this specific peptide.
CJC-1295 without DAC and safety profile in preclinical models
Safety assessments in animals have reported transient injection-site reactions and mild increases in liver enzymes. In a 13-week toxicity study in rats, no mortality or organ toxicity was observed at doses up to 1 mg/kg/day. However, the study was conducted by a manufacturer and has not been peer-reviewed. Long-term safety data in humans are lacking, and the peptide is not approved for any therapeutic indication.
CJC-1295 without DAC and comparison with DAC-conjugated form
The DAC-conjugated form of CJC-1295 includes a drug affinity complex that binds to albumin, extending its half-life to several days. In contrast, CJC-1295 without DAC has a half-life of approximately 30 minutes in animal models. A comparative study in rats showed that the DAC form produced sustained GH elevation for over 72 hours, while the without-DAC form returned to baseline within 6 hours. This table summarises the key differences:
| Parameter | CJC-1295 without DAC | CJC-1295 with DAC |
|---|---|---|
| Half-life (animal) | ~30 minutes | ~5-8 days |
| GH elevation duration | ~6 hours | >72 hours |
| Albumin binding | No | Yes |
| Molecular weight | 3367.9 Da | ~3647 Da |
These differences influence research design, as the without-DAC variant requires more frequent administration to maintain elevated GH levels in animal studies.
CJC-1295 without DAC and purity in the gray market
A study evaluating research-grade peptides marketed directly to consumers found extensive variability in purity and measured abundance [2]. The analysis of 6441 samples revealed that many peptides, including GHRH analogues, contained less than 90% of the labelled amount, and some had detectable endotoxin. This underscores the importance of sourcing from reputable suppliers that provide third-party certificates of analysis. For laboratory research, purity and accurate quantification are critical for reproducible results.
CJC-1295 without DAC and regulatory status
CJC-1295 without DAC is not approved by the FDA or any other regulatory agency for human use. It is sold as a research chemical, and its possession or distribution may be restricted in some jurisdictions. A review of peptide therapeutics in gerontology noted that many peptides marketed for healthy aging lack rigorous clinical evidence and regulatory oversight [3]. Researchers should comply with all applicable laws and institutional guidelines when handling this compound.
If you are reading this for personal health reasons
This material is sold for laboratory research only. We do not provide dosing or medical guidance. Anyone considering a compound for themselves should speak to a licensed clinician.
Sources
- [1] The emerging landscape of performance-enhancing peptides modulating GH-IGF1 axis: bridging the gap between clinical evidence and patient self-administration.
- [2] Evaluation of Research Grade Peptides Marketed Directly to Consumers Reveals Extensive Variability in Purity and Measured Abundance.
- [3] Therapeutic peptides in gerontology: mechanisms and applications for healthy aging.
- [4] Safety and Efficacy of Approved and Unapproved Peptide Therapies for Musculoskeletal Injuries and Athletic Performance.
- [5] Safety and Efficacy of Approved and Unapproved Peptide Therapies for Musculoskeletal Injuries and Athletic Performance.
- [6] A Study to Evaluate CJC 1295 in HIV Patients With Visceral Obesity.
- [7] Peptide Supplements and Their Therapeutic Applications in Sports Medicine.
- [8] Injectable Peptides in Sports Medicine: A Structured Narrative Review of Evidence, Safety, and Antidoping Implications.
- [9] Safety and Efficacy of Approved and Unapproved Peptide Therapies for Musculoskeletal Injuries and Athletic Performance.
- [10] A new era of doping? Use of peptide and peptide-analog drugs in recreational and professional sport and bodybuilding: a critical review.