Research into Kisspeptin-10 and Hormone Production

Research into Kisspeptin-10 and Hormone Production

Kisspeptin-10 is be derived from the Kiss-1 gene, which is transcribed into the kiss-1 protein before it is transformed into Kisspeptin-10. It is suggested to be mainly synthesized by two clusters of neuronal cell bodies located in the hypothalamus and produced by neurons in the arcuate nucleus in the brain. These may be involved in a negative feedback mechanism by which the gonadotropin-releasing hormone/luteinizing hormone (GnRH/LH) pulse is regulated by testosterone.

Kisspeptin-10 peptide is speculated to regulate several hormone-controlled activities. It is suggested to play a significant role in regulating the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis, which is deemed essential in pubarche. It may also play a role in the female reproductive cycle through negative feedback control of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone estrogen.

 

Potential Effects of Kisspeptin-10

  1. Reduction in Fat Cell Storage Kisspeptin-10 has been suggested to potentially reduce the accumulation of fat cell storage by decreasing the formation and maturation of adipocytes. It might limit the formation of adipocytes by decreasing the expression of the PPAR-y and CEBP-beta genes involved in the construction and differentiation of adipocytes. Kisspeptin-10 has been speculated to affect the formation of fat cells and the breakdown of existing cells. It may enhance the expression of perilipin and hormone-sensitive lipase, the enzyme involved in the breakdown of fat cells. It may also reduce fat accumulation by potentially stimulating leptin, a hormone the adipocytes produce. Leptin may regulate energy balance by suppressing food intake through signals sent to the hypothalamus. When food intake is stopped, the fat reservoir may be utilized, and more fat cells may be broken down.
  2. Bone Development Kisspeptin-10 (KP-10) may potentially help activate bone-forming cells known as osteoblasts. It may increase the genetic expression of osteogenesis such as the bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) genes. Kisspeptin-10 may also activate several transcription factors involved in osteoblasts’ activation. These transcription factors include Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and distal–less homeobox 5 (Dlx5). The activated osteoblasts may then form bone cells (osteocytes). Once osteocytes undergo maturation and differentiation, they may lead to an increase in bone matrix formation and bone mineral density.
  3. Control of Fertility Kisspeptin-10 may be important in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which produces and regulates gonadal hormones like testosterone and estrogen. These hormones are considered to be responsible for the secondary sexual characteristics that accompany developmental maturation. Since 2005, Kisspeptin-10 has been speculated to be the most significant activator of the HPG axis. In a study, the exposure to Kisspeptin-10 appeared to have induced the rats’ maturation, while the exposure to its antagonist delayed their maturation.
  4. Potential Neuronal Regeneration Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) may exhibit neuroprotective and neuro-regenerative actions. The widespread incidence of GnRH and GnRH immune-reactive neurons in the cerebral cortex suggests that GnRH may be a neuromodulatory peptide. Immunohistochemistry studies also suggest the presence of a GnRH receptor and messenger RNA in the cerebral cortical neurons of rats’ embryos and adult rats. Kisspeptin-10 may stimulate and regulate the production of GnRH.
  5. Kisspeptin-10 and Olfaction Olfaction may have a vital role to play in mammalian reproduction. Recent studies may have suggested that Kisspeptin-10 is present in the amygdala, the central structure of the olfactory system. Immunochemistry may also have revealed a close relationship between amygdala neurons containing Kisspeptin-10 and dopaminergic neurons, indicating the importance of Kisspeptin-10 in social behaviors like reward and motivation. A study may suggested that male mice exposed to Kisspeptin-10 spent most of their time sniffing female mice. In contrast, those given testosterone did not investigate females preferentially over males.

 

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

What Are Peptides?

What Are Peptides?

Both peptides and proteins are composed of long-chain, co-linked amino acids called polymers (hence the name of peptide bonds). The only thing that distinguishes them from proteins is their size. There is no absolute cutoff, but they are much smaller because they are fewer amino acids than proteins. Amino acid chains longer than 50 residues are commonly referred to as proteins. After the peptide has grown beyond 50 amino acids, the peptide begins to fold, forming a shape and bond called secondary structure. They are almost always linear and have minimal secondary structure (lariat loops may be observed), and cutting size.

Therefore, peptides may basically be described as smaller, simpler versions of proteins. Studies have suggested that they may affect immunomodulation, growth hormone release, extracellular matrix production, and nerve cell growth and migration. Peptides may be the key to starting and stopping important biochemical cascades and may therefore prove important for biological function.

Studies over the last few decades have suggested that peptides may act to regulate cell aging cycles, control inflammation, mitigate infection, facilitate progressive tissue repair, increase cognitive synapses, and alter body composition.

 

Peptide Research

 

Slowing Cell Aging

A handful of peptides, including Sermorelin and Epithalon, have been suggested to alter the cell aging cycle at the DNA level. These have been speculated to activate an enzyme called telomerase to protect and repair DNA endpoints (called telomeres). Telomere degradation over time is one of the major signals that cells use to determine whether they divide and grow.Cell division may stop if telomeres become too short, and tissues may deteriorate. Certain peptides have been researched for their potential to delay the rate of tissue destruction by protecting telomeres. They may also reduce oxidative damage. Such peptides include Sermorelin, Epithalon, IpamorelinCJC-1295, and BPC 157. These peptides are classified as antioxidants that may mitigate cancer cell proliferation, cardiac and cognitive dysfunction, and other conditions.
 

Rapid Tissue Repair

Peptides may improve wound healing by affecting the growth hormone axis, increasing cell migration rates, reducing inflammation, and deposition extracellular matrix components. Many peptides, such as VIP, KPV, BPC 157, Sermorelin, and Hexarelin, have been researched for their potential in this area. Studies have suggested that these peptides may exert antifibrotic action, and lend support to tissue repair processes. One such peptide, BPC157, is widely considered to exhibit tissue healing characteristics, especially in its potential to promote tendon regeneration. Tendons are considered to be slow menders, but studies have suggested that BPC157 may speed up the process. Other peptides, like TB-500 and KPV, have been suggested to exert antimicrobial action to help ensure sterile wound healing.
 

Lean Muscle Structure

Sermorelin, CJC 1295, GHRP2, etc., are all hypothesized to impact the growth hormone axis, inducing an increase in bone density and muscle mass while dissolving fat cell collections. Ipamorelin has been posited to exhibit similar characteristics but with improved bone strengthening.

 

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

Tesamorelin Peptide: Weight Loss and Research in HIV

Tesamorelin Peptide: Weight Loss and Research in HIV

Tesamorelin is a peptide that researchers suggest holds importance in addressing cardiovascular disease in research models of HIV. Findings from studies propose that Tesamorelin peptide may be associated with a reduction in excess fat cell accumulation in models of HIV and lipodystrophy.

 

What is Tesamorelin Peptide?

Tesamorelin peptide, also known as (TH9507), is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing factor agonist that researchers suggest stimulates the production and release of endogenous growth hormone. Speculative information indicates that it consists of the 44 amino acids of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) with the addition of a trans-3-hexenoic acid group. It is also speculated to be more potent and stable than GHRH and resistant to cleavage by the enzyme dipeptidyl aminopeptidase.

In animal experiments, it is suggested to have significantly reduced visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Researchers propose that Tesamorelin peptide was found to reduce triglycerides and total cholesterol in research models of lipodystrophy when introduced combinatorily with antiretroviral therapy in research models of HIV.

 

Structure of Tesamorelin Peptide

Sequence: Unk-Tyr-Ala-Asp-Ala-Ile-Phe-Thr-Asn-Ser-Tyr-Arg-Lys-Val-Leu-Gly-Gln-Leu-Ser-Ala-Arg-Lys-Leu-Leu-Gln-Asp-Ile-Met-Ser-Arg-Gln-Gln-Gly-Glu-Ser-Asn-Gln-Glu-Arg-Gly-Ala-Arg-Ala-Arg-Leu-NH2

Molecular Formula: C221H366N72O67S

Molecular weight: 5136 g/molS

 

Tesamorelin Peptide Mechanism of Action

Research daata suggests that Tesamorelin peptide binds and stimulates GHRF receptors with similar efficacy to endogenous GHRF. Growth hormone-releasing factor is a hypothalamic peptide speculated to act on the somatotropic cells of the pituitary gland to stimulate the synthesis and pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone. This growth hormone is speculated to be both anabolic and lipolytic, exerting effects on various target cells.

Studies propose that the main mechanism of action of Tesamorelin is lipolysis, the breakdown of lipids and triglycerides. Generally stored in the  for later energy use, high values for either may increase the risk of heart disease.

 

Case Study

A study involved Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) HIV research models with excess fat accumulation. These research models were given Tesamorelin  or placebo each day. After 26 weeks, the group of research subjects receiving placebo were switched to Tesamorelin peptide for the next 26 weeks. The exposure to Tesamorelin in the experimental group was continued for another 26 weeks. Observations from the study suggest that exposure to Tesamorelin may decrease Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT) and maintain the reduction for up to 52 weeks, possibly maintaining abdominal adipose tissue, improving lipids and body image, and without any significant changes in glucose parameters.

 

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

 

References

Falutz J, Mamputu JC, Potvin D, Moyle G, Soulban G, Loughrey H, Marsolais C, Turner R, Grinspoon S. Effects of tesamorelin (TH9507), a growth hormone-releasing factor analog, in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients with excess abdominal fat: a pooled analysis of two multicenter, double-blind placebo-controlled phase 3 trials with safety extension data. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Sep;95(9):4291-304

MGF vs. PEG-MGF: Research in Muscle Regeneration

MGF vs. PEG-MGF: Research in Muscle Regeneration

MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) Mechano growth factor (MGF) is a synthetically produced peptide that researchers suggest may be an alternative splicing variant of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF – 1). First described in skeletal muscles, it appears to function as a local tissue repair factor, responding to changes in physiological conditions or environmental stimuli that induce muscle cell proliferation. It is said to activate satellite cells in the muscle and increase the number of desmin positive myogenic precursor cells, potentially leading to hypertrophy or regeneration. Additionally, researchers suggest it may act as a neuroprotective agent in cerebral ischemia. MGF is characterized as IGF – 1Eb with a 52 base pair insert in rats. It appears to have a relatively short half-life of only a few minutes, prompting the development of PEG-MGF to compensate for this disadvantage.

PEG-MGF, or Pegylated Mechano Growth Factor, is a variant of IGF-1. PEG-ylation modifies MGF by fusing polyethylene glycol (PEG) into it, potentially extending its half-life from a few minutes to days, allowing it to travel through the bloodstream for an extended period before breaking down and being excreted by the kidneys. Researchers suggest this process is essential for animal muscle regeneration after physical exertion or injury by promoting nitrogen retention and increasing protein synthesis.

 

Mechanism of Action

Research data from animal studies suggests that PEG-MGF supports the regeneration process of muscle, positively regulates protein synthesis, and activates satellite cells. In experiments where the PEG-MGF cDNA has been inserted into a plasmid vector and introduced into muscle cells, it appears to be a potent inducer of muscle hypertrophy. The addition of PEG-MGF to muscle myoblasts appeared to have increased proliferation and delayed differentiation, even in the presence of anti – IGF 1 receptor antibodies, potentially by activating fibrinolysis of matrix and metalloproteinase systems. Additionally, researchers propose that intense physical exertion may stimulate the release of growth hormone in the muscles to release MGF, especially as levels of this hormone decrease over time. Furthermore, a recent study of PEG-MGF suggests that the activity of protein kinase C is speculated to be necessary for the activation of this peptide (translocation to the nucleus) of factor 2 related to NFE 2 (Nrf2). This, in turn, is suggested to increase the expression of heme oxygenase 1, an event speculated to mediate neuroprotection of neurons from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in the brain.

 

Research into PEG-MGF

In addition to its potential effects on muscle, PEG-MGF is speculated to have other impacts in the bodies of animal research models. Researchers suggest that PEG-MGF may enhance the proliferation and migration of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, which are suggested to be a source of autologous stem cells for transplantation to the heart. There is speculative evidence of transient regulation of PEG b MGF expression in response to myocardial infarction associated with ischemia in the heart. Intracoronary exposure to this peptide is suggested to induce myocardial protection and improve hemodynamic function more than mature IGF – 1 after myocardial infarction in sheep. The speculated cellular protection conferred by PEG-MGF is suggested to be based on the inhibition of apoptosis in the border area of the infarct. PEG-MGF has been suggested to stimulate proangiogenic activities in vascular endothelial cells. Therefore, it may confer potentially beneficial action at the level of vascular regeneration and collateralization to restore blood flow to the heart after myocardial infarction. IGF – 1, considered to play an essential role in the interface between neurons in injured or damaged muscles, has shown potential effectiveness in slowing the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a disease characterized by the loss of motor neurons and progressive muscle weakness. Exposure to PEG-MGF has been reported to produce improvements, with more motor neurons surviving in PEG-MGF-treated mice. MGF may be expressed in excess in regenerating regions after global cerebral ischemia. Its transcripts, thought to be expressed during brain development, are suggested to exhibit particular time distributions. Additionally, neonatal hypoxia and insults of hypoxic ischemia are suggested to lead to increased and prolonged expression of only the MGF isoform.

 

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

Epithalon: Overview of Anti-Aging Experiments

Epithalon: Overview of Anti-Aging Experiments

The science of bioaging is still considered a relatively unexplored territory, with research in biogerontology becoming a focal point in the exploration of anti-cell aging discovery.  To study the effects of a substance that potentially impacts the aging cycle of a cell, Prof. Vladimir Khavinson conducted several methodical research studies on murine models, and developed interesting theories, one of which was the development and exploration of the research peptide Epithalon, which Khavinson et al. suggests may induce anti-aging characteristics upon cells, via telomerase activation and the elongation of telomeres.

 

What is Epithalon?

Epithalon, also known as Epithalon or Epithalamine, is a synthetic pineal tetrapeptide comprising four amino acids (Alanine, Glutamic acid, Aspartic acid, Glycine). It is considered identical to the natural peptide called Epithalamin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland. The peptide molecule appears to interact with and induce sensitivity in the hypothalamus towards the natural hormone, monitoring the circadian rhythm and controlling melatonin production. Researchers suggest that this peptide may exert positive influences in the realms of cell aging, as well as potentially inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells, including those in the breast, prostate, and colon. Epithalon is suggested to impact metabolism by increasing the sensitivity of the hypothalamus to its natural hormone influences. This is said to regulate the level of melatonin in the bodies of animal test subjects, thereby regulating the circadian rhythm.

 

What is Meant by “Aging”?

Aging is a natural physiological phenomenon wherein cells undergoing repeated division cycles, which ultimately shorten their telomere length beyond the Hayflick limit. Such aged cells may undergo self-degradation or, in some instances, adversely affect tissues of various organs, leading to open pathways for diseases to develop.

 

Epithalon Mechanism of Action

Epithalon, researchers suggest, increases the production of telomerase, a natural enzyme that aids in the reproduction of telomeres—protective components of DNA that prevent the loss of genetic information. Researchers speculate that this results in the prevention of chromosome shortening, which is closely linked to age-related diseases. By activating telomerase, cells may potentially exceed their predetermined time limit and reverse the mechanism of cell aging, as cells with longer telomere strands are believed to provide better function and replication.

 

Cell Aging and Epithalon

The cell life extension and anti-aging potential of the synthetic tetrapeptide Epithalon is considered to be strong, according to data from various experimental studies. Researchers suggest that Epithalon may achieve this by elongating telomeres and activating telomerase, supporting data that it may prolong the life of cells. Additionally, Epithalon is speculated to stimulate the endogenous secretion of melatonin, an antioxidant that may decrease age-related alterations in the immune and neuroendocrine systems, potentially reducing the incidence of chronic diseases and infections.

 

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

Differences of BPC-157 and TB-500 in Tissue Repair

Differences of BPC-157 and TB-500 in Tissue Repair

Peptides are short stretches of amino acids and can be either sourced from naturally prevalent proteins or synthesized. The amino acid sequences are chosen in a way that they may retain the biological function of their full-length protein counterparts and mimic their biological functions. They are said to play diverse roles from hormones, catalysts, and stimulants. The speculated role of peptides in various biological processes—whether initiating a reaction, speeding processes up, stopping the action of catalytic enzymes, or stimulating the release of hormones—varies and appears to be highly dependent on their mechanisms of action.

In this article, we will compare BPC-157 and TB-500, two peptides that have been widely researched for their potential in tissue repair processes, in terms of their chemistry, mechanism of action, and physiological influence.

 

Chemistry of BPC-157 and TB-500

Both BPC-157 and TB-500 are synthetic in origin, implying that they may not be found in nature and might not have common sequence homology with natural peptides. BPC-157 is a pentadecapeptide of BPC or Body Protection Compound, identified and isolated from the gastric juice. BPC-157 is a partial sequence of BPC and comprises a chain of 15 amino acids. TB-500 is synthetic form of Thymosin Beta 4, a water-soluble and regenerative compound found abundantly in bio-fluids such as saliva, and cerebrospinal fluid. TB-500 is the isolated (17)LKKTETQ(23) segment of Thymosin Beta 4 and has been researched for its potential to exert similar impacts.

 

BPC-157 and TB-500 Mechanism of Action

Research suggests that BPC-157 may mediate upregulation of growth hormones, modulate Nitric Oxide synthesis, enhance blood vessel production, and modify collagen production as well as bone proteins. TB-500, on the other hand, is suggested to principally associate with actin, promoting cellular migration and regeneration, and blocking inflammatory chemokines and cytokines.

 

BPC-157

The role of BPC-157 is centered on its potential ability to increase angiogenesis or the production of blood vessels by modifying the expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor 2 (VEGFR2). This increase in angiogenesis is believed to trigger a cascade of different effects from faster wound healing, improved tendon and bone repair, and tissue regeneration in research subjects. Another suggested action of BPC-157 is its unique potential to enhance the tendon repair process and reduce the recovery time needed for damaged tendons to return to their original strength. BPC-157 is also suggested to show a cytoprotective effect, especially in the gastric mucosa, apart from the liver, pancreas, heart, and brain neurons.

 

TB-500

The research in TB-500 is based on its potential to bind with actin and improve tissue regeneration, tissue formation, and aid wound healing. It also appears to improve cell migration, re-epithelialization, and angiogenesis that are claimed to be crucial in tissue repair and wound healing. The peptide is also suggested to exhibit an anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing the release of chemokines and cytokines responsible for inflammation. It is currently being studied for its potential cardioprotective and neuroprotective characteristics. In-vitro tests in animal models also suggest the ability of TB-500 to inhibit premature apoptosis or cell death in the heart and the hippocampal region of the brain.

 

Conclusion of BPC-157 and TB-500

Based on theoretical deductions and scientific findings, both the peptides are speculated to exert action in wound healing and tissue formation. They are suggested to showcase angiogenesis and cytoprotective influence, although they may affect different factors in the process. The difference appears to be that BPC-157 influences tendon and bone repair while TB-500 doesn’t. This suggests it may potentially be more impactful in injuries that damage tendons, ligaments, and bones. It is also claimed to have greater neurological impact compared to the latter. TB-500, on the other hand, is suggested to exhibit anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective roles that BPC-157 may lack.

 

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing.  Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law.  All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.