AOD-9604
Research Overview · Mechanism of Action · Reconstitution Guide
Overview
AOD-9604 (hGH Fragment 176-191) is a 16-amino acid C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone. It was developed by researchers at Monash University who identified that the lipolytic activity of HGH resided in the C-terminal region, while the anabolic and diabetogenic effects were associated with the N-terminal region. AOD-9604 retains the lipolytic properties of HGH without stimulating IGF-1 production or affecting blood glucose, making it a useful tool for studying fat metabolism pathways independently of the broader GH axis.
Mechanism of Action
AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis through mechanisms that appear to involve beta-3 adrenergic receptor activation and direct effects on adipocyte metabolism, independent of the GH receptor. It does not bind the GH receptor or stimulate IGF-1 production. In obese rodent models, AOD-9604 reduces body fat without affecting lean mass, insulin sensitivity, or bone density. The precise receptor through which it mediates its lipolytic effects remains an active area of research.
Key Studies & References
Heffernan MA et al. (2001). The effects of human GH and its lipolytic fragment (AOD9604) on lipid metabolism following chronic treatment in obese mice and beta(3)-AR knockout mice. J Endocrinol 168:35–43.
Ng FM et al. (2000). Metabolic studies of a synthetic lipolytic domain (AOD9604) of human growth hormone. Horm Res 53:274–278.
Stier H et al. (2013). Safety and tolerability of the hexadecapeptide AOD 9604 in humans. J Endocrinol Invest 36:360–365.
Bacteriostatic Water Reconstitution Guide
Research Use Only — The following reconstitution information is provided for in vitro laboratory research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.
Recommended Solvent
Bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Standard Volume
Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to a 5 mg vial to yield a 2500 mcg/mL solution.
Working Concentration
2500 mcg/mL standard. May dilute to 500–1000 mcg/mL for lower-dose protocols.
Storage (Reconstituted)
Reconstituted: 2–8°C, use within 28 days. Lyophilized: -20°C, desiccated.
Stability Window
28 days refrigerated.
Technique
Inject solvent slowly along the vial wall. Swirl gently until dissolved. Clear, colorless solution expected.
Notes
AOD-9604 has been studied in human Phase IIb/III trials (METAOD trials) and has an established human safety profile at doses up to 1 mg/kg.
Research Dosing Reference
The following dosing information is derived from published clinical and preclinical research literature and is provided for reference purposes only.
Clinical / Human Research Range
Human trials: 1 mg/kg oral or 250–500 mcg subcutaneous daily.
Preclinical Models
Rodent studies: 250 mcg/kg to 1 mg/kg subcutaneous, daily.
Calculation Example
For a 2500 mcg/mL solution: a 500 mcg research dose = 0.2 mL (20 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe).