CJC-1295 DAC vs Ghrelin

CJC-1295 DAC is a GHRH analog carrying a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) modification that binds covalently to circulating albumin, greatly extending its plasma half-life relative to unmodified or short-acting GHRH analogs. Through this albumin binding it acts as a long-lasting agonist at pituitary GHRH receptors, associated in research with sustained growth hormone and downstream IGF-1 elevation. This contrasts with the non-DAC form (Mod GRF 1-29), whose action is measured in minutes rather than days.

Must be acylated at Ser3 (by GOAT enzyme) for GHSR-1a binding. Receptor activation in the pituitary stimulates GH release; hypothalamic action via NPY/AgRP neurons increases appetite and reduces energy expenditure.