Tesamorelin vs CJC-1295 (without DAC): GHRH Analogues Compared
Quick Answer
Tesamorelin and CJC-1295 (without DAC) are both synthetic analogues of growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and both act at the GHRH receptor. Tesamorelin is the full 44-residue sequence with a trans-3-hexenoyl group added to the N-terminus. CJC-1295 without DAC, also called Modified GRF (1-29), is the shorter 29-residue active fragment with four amino-acid substitutions that slow enzymatic breakdown. Both appear in GHRH-receptor pharmacology and pituitary cell research.
Key Takeaways
- Both target the GHRH receptor.
- Tesamorelin: 44 residues, C221H366N72O67S, about 5136 g/mol, CAS 218949-48-5.
- CJC-1295 (without DAC): 29 residues with four substitutions (D-Ala2, Gln8, Ala15, Leu27).
- “With DAC” versions add a drug affinity complex; ours is the version without it.
At a Glance
| Tesamorelin | CJC-1295 (without DAC) | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 44 residues | 29 residues |
| Modification | N-terminal trans-3-hexenoyl group | Four substitutions in GHRH(1-29) |
| Other names | TH9507 | Modified GRF (1-29) |
| CAS number | 218949-48-5 | no widely used CAS for this form |
| Research focus | GHRH receptor, GH and IGF-1 axis | GHRH receptor, cAMP signaling in somatotrophs |
What Is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin keeps the complete human GHRH(1-44) sequence and adds a trans-3-hexenoyl group to the first residue. The modification protects the N-terminus from dipeptidyl peptidase-4, the enzyme that inactivates native GHRH within minutes. It is used in studies of GHRH-receptor pharmacology and of the growth hormone and IGF-1 axis.
What Is CJC-1295 (without DAC)?
GHRH activity sits in its first 29 residues, so CJC-1295 without DAC starts from that fragment and swaps four amino acids (D-alanine at position 2, glutamine at 8, alanine at 15 and leucine at 27) to resist breakdown. It is often paired with the ghrelin-receptor agonist ipamorelin in research on how the two receptor pathways interact; we supply that pairing as CJC-1295 (without DAC) + Ipamorelin 5/5 mg. For that comparison, see CJC-1295 vs Ipamorelin.
How They Differ
The main differences are length and how each is protected from enzymes: Tesamorelin keeps the whole native sequence and blocks the vulnerable end with a fatty acyl group, while CJC-1295 without DAC trims to the active fragment and changes the residues that enzymes attack. Labs choose between them based on whether a study needs the full-length hormone or the minimal active fragment.
Storage of the Sealed Vial
All of these compounds ship as lyophilized (freeze-dried) solids in sealed vials. Store sealed vials as stated on the label, protected from light and moisture, and see our storage and handling guide for temperature ranges. Each vial is labelled with its lot number, which ties it to its certificate.
Analytical Verification and Documentation
Each lot is tested by Testides, an independent laboratory, for HPLC purity and content. Certificates are published with their report numbers so they can be checked against the lab’s own record:
New to certificates? Our guide on how to read a COA walks through each field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Tesamorelin and CJC-1295?
Tesamorelin is full-length GHRH(1-44) with an N-terminal hexenoyl group. CJC-1295 without DAC is the 29-residue active fragment with four substitutions. Both act at the GHRH receptor.
What is the molecular weight of Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin (C221H366N72O67S) has a molecular weight of about 5136 g/mol. Its CAS number is 218949-48-5.
What does “without DAC” mean?
DAC stands for drug affinity complex, a linker that binds albumin. CJC-1295 without DAC is the same modified GRF(1-29) peptide without that linker.
All compounds discussed are sold for in-vitro laboratory research only. They are not for human or animal use and not for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Nothing here describes or suggests use in people.
For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
