GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide and potent ghrelin receptor agonist. It stimulates growth hormone secretion via the GH secretagogue receptor and has been studied for its effects on GH release, inflammation, tissue repair, and metabolic regulation. Below is a curated selection of peer-reviewed studies investigating its properties.
2024
GHRP-2 May Be Associated With Decreased M1 Macrophage Production and Increased Tendon-Bone Healing in a Rat Rotator Cuff Model
ScienceDirect / American Journal of Sports Medicine
This study found that GHRP-2 inhibited M1 macrophage polarisation in vitro and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. In a rat rotator cuff tear model, GHRP-2 treatment improved histological scores, increased bone mineral density, and enhanced biomechanical properties at the tendon-bone interface, suggesting a role in musculoskeletal tissue repair.
View Paper â2022
Clinical Usefulness of the GHRP-2 Test for Hypothalamic-Pituitary Disorder
PMC / Journal of the Endocrine Society
This clinical study assessed the GHRP-2 stimulation test as a diagnostic tool for growth hormone deficiency and adrenal insufficiency in patients with hypothalamic-pituitary disorders. GHRP-2 was found to reliably stimulate both GH and ACTH release, supporting its utility as a combined diagnostic agent in endocrine assessment.
View Paper â2016
GHRP-2 Attenuation of Protein Kinase C-Induced Inflammation in Human Ovarian Granulosa Cells
PMC / International Journal of Molecular Sciences
This study examined GHRP-2’s anti-inflammatory properties in human granulosa cells, finding it significantly attenuated PKC-induced expression of COX-2 and IL-8 via inhibition of p38, JNK, ERK, NF-ÎșB, and AP-1 signalling pathways. The findings expand understanding of GHRP-2’s anti-inflammatory mechanism beyond GH-mediated effects.
View Paper â2012
Growth Hormone Response to GHRP-2 in Growth Hormone-Deficient Little Mice
PMC / Open Access
This study demonstrated that GHRP-2 stimulates GH release via a pathway independent of the growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor, using a mouse model of GH deficiency. GH release was observed even in mice with non-functional GHRH receptors, confirming GHRP-2 acts through a distinct pituitary mechanism.
View Paper â2005
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of the Ghrelin Agonist GHRP-2 in Arthritic Rats
American Journal of Physiology â Endocrinology and Metabolism
This preclinical study found that GHRP-2 administration ameliorated external symptoms of adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats, reducing arthritis scores and improving metabolic parameters. GHRP-2 was shown to exert anti-inflammatory and anti-cachectic effects, supporting its potential in conditions involving chronic inflammation and muscle wasting.
View Paper â2005
GHRP-2 Like Ghrelin Increases Food Intake in Healthy Men
PubMed / Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
This human study subcutaneously infused GHRP-2 in lean healthy males and measured food intake at a buffet-style meal. GHRP-2 significantly increased appetite and food intake by approximately 35%, confirming its orexigenic properties in humans via the GH secretagogue receptor â consistent with ghrelin’s role in appetite regulation.
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