AOD-9604

Overview

AOD-9604 (Advanced Obesity Drug-9604) is a modified fragment of the human growth hormone molecule, specifically amino acids 177-191 with a tyrosine addition at the C-terminus. It was developed to isolate the lipolytic (fat-burning) properties of growth hormone while excluding its growth-promoting and diabetogenic effects.

Mechanism of Action

AOD-9604 mimics the fat-metabolizing action of growth hormone by stimulating lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibiting lipogenesis (fat formation) in adipose tissue. It acts on beta-3 adrenergic receptors and enhances fat oxidation without affecting blood sugar levels or promoting cellular proliferation. Unlike full-length GH, it does not increase IGF-1 levels.

Research Context

Originally developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals in Australia, AOD-9604 underwent clinical trials for obesity treatment. While it did not advance to market as a pharmaceutical, it demonstrated a favorable safety profile and confirmed fat-reducing activity without the adverse metabolic effects of growth hormone administration.

Key Research Areas

Considerations for Researchers

AOD-9604 is relatively affordable for a GH-derived peptide. Store lyophilized at -20C. Reconstitute with BAC water. The fragment nature means it is smaller and more stable than full-length GH.