CJC-1295 (with DAC)

What is CJC-1295 With DAC?

CJC-1295 With DAC is a modified growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue featuring a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) — a lysine-reactive maleimide group that allows the peptide to form a stable, covalent bond with serum albumin in the bloodstream. This albumin binding dramatically extends the compound's half-life from approximately 30 minutes (for native GHRH) to 6-8 days.

The extended half-life means CJC-1295 With DAC can be administered far less frequently than its counterpart without DAC — making it relevant for research protocols where steady-state GH axis elevation is the objective.

Mechanism of Action

CJC-1295 With DAC acts on pituitary GHRH receptors to stimulate GH synthesis and release — the same mechanism as native GHRH. The DAC modification simply prolongs the duration of receptor activation by keeping the compound in circulation for days rather than minutes.

By binding albumin via its DAC group, the peptide evades renal filtration (which rapidly eliminates small peptides) and proteolytic degradation — giving it a functional half-life matching that of albumin itself (~19 days in humans, 6-8 days effective for peptide activity).

Key Research Findings

Sustained GH and IGF-1 Elevation

Clinical studies with CJC-1295 With DAC demonstrated prolonged, dose-dependent elevations in plasma GH and IGF-1 that persisted for several days following a single injection. A Phase II study showed mean GH levels 2-10 times baseline for 6 days following a single dose.

Pharmacokinetic Profile

The 6-8 day activity window means once or twice weekly administration can maintain chronic GH axis elevation — a protocol relevant for research requiring sustained IGF-1 elevation without daily injections.

Body Composition Effects

As with other GHRH analogues, chronic CJC-1295 With DAC administration promotes favorable body composition changes: increased lean mass, reduced adipose tissue, and improved bone density — consistent with sustained IGF-1 elevation.

CJC-1295 With DAC vs. Without DAC

The key distinction is the pharmacokinetic profile and the physiological pattern it produces. Without DAC produces a defined, pulsatile GH response (approximately 30 minutes of activity) that mimics natural GH pulsatility. With DAC produces sustained, chronic GH axis activation — a 'GH bleed' rather than a pulse. Researchers choose between these profiles based on whether pulsatile or chronic GH stimulation better matches their research objectives.

*For research use only. Not for human consumption.*