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AOD-9604: A Scientific Overview

July 7, 2026

AOD-9604 was designed to isolate one property of growth hormone — its effect on fat metabolism — from its other actions. This overview summarizes what the published research reports, strictly within a laboratory-research context.

What Is AOD-9604?

AOD-9604 is a synthetic C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone, corresponding to residues 176–191 with an added N-terminal tyrosine. It was developed as an “anti-obesity” research candidate intended to retain GH’s lipolytic (fat-metabolizing) signaling while avoiding classical GH-receptor-mediated growth effects and IGF-1 exposure.

Mechanisms Studied in Research

  • Lipolysis and fat oxidation. In obese-mouse models, chronic subcutaneous AOD-9604 was associated with increased fat oxidation, elevated plasma glycerol (a lipolysis index), and attenuated weight gain.
  • Distinct from full-length GH. Notably, research reports that AOD-9604 did not interact with the hGH receptor and, unlike hGH, did not induce hyperglycemia or reduce insulin secretion in the models studied.

The State of the Evidence

  • Strong preclinical rationale, limited human confirmation. The lipolytic effects are documented in animal models; robust human efficacy data are limited.
  • Regulatory status. AOD-9604 is not an FDA-approved drug. Research-grade material is supplied for laboratory research use only.

Key Takeaways

  • AOD-9604 is a synthetic GH C-terminal fragment (176–191 plus an N-terminal tyrosine).
  • Research focuses on lipolysis and fat oxidation, apparently independent of the GH receptor.
  • It is not FDA-approved and is offered strictly for laboratory research.

References

  • “Increase of fat oxidation and weight loss in obese mice caused by chronic treatment with human growth hormone or a modified C-terminal fragment.” PMID 11673763.
  • “The emerging landscape of performance-enhancing peptides modulating the GH-IGF1 axis.” Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026.

Research Use, Legal Status & Handling

Material supplied for research is intended for in-vitro laboratory research use only. It is not a dietary supplement, drug, cosmetic, or food. Where an approved pharmaceutical version of a compound exists, research-grade material is not that approved product and is not intended for human or veterinary consumption, diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any condition. Researchers are solely responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations in their jurisdiction. Research peptides are generally stored lyophilized, protected from light and heat, with reconstitution and handling performed per standard laboratory protocols.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only and summarizes published laboratory and, where noted, clinical research. It is not medical advice or a recommendation for any form of use. Research-grade material is intended strictly for in-vitro research use only — not for human or veterinary consumption. Always consult a qualified professional regarding health-related questions.