What Is Hexarelin?
Hexarelin (Examorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide GHRP and one of the most potent GH secretagogues studied. Like GHRP-6, it binds GHS-R1a, but with higher affinity and a greater maximal GH response. Hexarelin also binds the CD36 scavenger receptor — a distinct target that mediates its cardioprotective effects independently of GH release.
Growth Hormone Potency
Hexarelin produces the largest acute GH pulse of any synthetic GHRP, though tachyphylaxis (receptor desensitisation) develops more rapidly than with Ipamorelin. Research protocols typically employ pulsatile dosing to preserve GH responsiveness.
| Compound | Relative GH Pulse | Tachyphylaxis Risk | |---|---|---| | Hexarelin | ★★★★★ | High | | GHRP-6 | ★★★★ | Moderate | | Ipamorelin | ★★★ | Low |
Cardioprotective Research
Hexarelin's most distinctive finding is its direct cardiac action via CD36:
- Reduces myocardial infarct size in preclinical ischaemia models
- Attenuates cardiac fibrosis and ventricular dysfunction post-MI
- Anti-apoptotic effect on cardiomyocytes under oxidative stress
- These effects persist in GH-deficient animals and GH receptor knockout models, confirming a GH-independent mechanism
A 2004 study in Endocrinology demonstrated Hexarelin's ability to prevent age-related cardiac decline in rats, generating significant interest in cardiovascular research.
Research Notes
Hexarelin is best studied using pulsatile dosing paradigms to avoid receptor downregulation. Store lyophilised peptide at −20°C.
Related compounds: GHRP-6, Ipamorelin, CJC-1295.