Tesamorelin: The "Surgical" GHRH Targeting Visceral Adipose Tissue
In the hierarchy of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormones (GHRH), Tesamorelin stands alone. It is the most complex, the most researched for specific lipolysis, and—due to its intricate 44-amino acid structure—the most difficult to synthesize. Here is why researchers pay the premium.
While standard GHRHs like CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) focus on a broad, systemic pulse of growth hormone, Tesamorelin (trans-3-hexenoyl-GHRH 1–44) has gained attention for a very specific observed outcome: the reduction of Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT).
The Molecule: Why Size Matters
Most GHRH analogues are truncated to 29 amino acids for cost and stability. Tesamorelin retains the full 44-amino acid sequence of natural human GHRH, but with a critical modification.
The addition of a trans-3-hexenoic acid group at the N-terminus acts as a molecular shield. This modification resists enzymatic degradation by DPP-IV, significantly extending the half-life of the peptide in vivo. In simple terms: it stays active long enough to do the heavy lifting.
The Primary Research Interest: VAT Reduction
Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT) is the hard, stubborn fat stored around internal organs, distinct from subcutaneous fat (under the skin). It is metabolically active and notoriously difficult to mobilize.
- The Mechanism: Clinical data suggests Tesamorelin stimulates the pituitary to release pulsatile GH, which preferentially binds to receptors on visceral fat cells, triggering lipolysis (fat breakdown).
- The Data: In Phase 3 clinical trials (specifically regarding HIV-associated lipodystrophy), subjects observed significant reductions in visceral fat depth without drastic changes to subcutaneous fat.
Tesamorelin vs. CJC-1295
Researchers often ask: "Why choose Tesamorelin over the cheaper CJC-1295?"
CJC-1295 is a generalist. It is excellent for raising baseline IGF-1 levels for recovery and sleep.
Tesamorelin is a specialist. It is chosen specifically when the research goal involves metabolic regulation and body composition changes centered on the midsection.
Stability Warning: The "Fragile" Giant
Because Tesamorelin is a long-chain peptide (44 amino acids), it is structurally more fragile than short peptides like GHRP-6. It is highly sensitive to:
- Heat: Exposure to room temperature for extended periods can denature the chain.
- Agitation: Shaking the vial destroys the tertiary structure.
At Tide Labs, we store Tesamorelin at -20°C and ship it in thermal-regulated packaging. If you buy this compound from a supplier who ships in a standard bubble mailer, you are likely receiving a degraded product.
Stock Status: In Stock (Cold Chain Verified)
Format: 10mg Lyophilized Vial (High Concentration)
Purity: >99% (HPLC Verified)
