Fragment 176–191 Overview
Fragment 176–191 is a stabilized synthetic peptide derived from the C-terminal region of the human growth hormone (hGH). Often identified in metabolic research as the lipolytic fragment, this 16-amino acid sequence is specifically engineered to isolate the fat-regulating properties of the parent hormone. By focusing on this specific molecular segment, researchers can observe significant lipid metabolism enhancement without the systemic side effects typically associated with full-spectrum growth hormone, such as cellular proliferation or bone growth.
This peptide has become a cornerstone in obesity research due to its ability to mimic the natural hormone's signal for fat breakdown (lipolysis) while simultaneously inhibiting the formation of new lipids (lipogenesis). Its selective action makes it a high-value tool for studying metabolic pathways and the physiological regulation of body composition.
Fragment 176–191 Structure
The chemical architecture of Fragment 176–191 is a specific sequence of amino acids beginning at the 176th residue and concluding at the 191st residue of the 191-amino acid hGH chain.
Structure Solution Formula:
C78H125N23O23S2
Linear Amino Acid Sequence:
Tyr-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys-Gly-Phe
Fragment 176–191 Effects
1. Enhanced Glycemic Control
Analytical studies have determined that Fragment 176–191 is a major contributor to the hypoglycemic activity found in growth hormone. Research suggests that this fragment can lower blood glucose levels through a sustained elevation of plasma insulin. Unlike complete hGH, which may cause insulin resistance over time, Fragment 176–191 appears to support glucose tolerance, making it a subject of interest for prediabetes research.
2. Accelerated Lipid Turnover and Weight Reduction
The peptide's primary mechanism involves the upregulation of beta-3 adrenergic receptors. These receptors facilitate the breakdown of fats in adipose tissue and promote heat production in skeletal muscle. Research data shows that obese subjects treated with the fragment experience a sharp increase in energy expenditure and fat oxidation, leading to significant weight loss while lean subjects remain unaffected.
3. Synergistic Cartilage Regeneration
Recent investigations have expanded into the regenerative potential of Fragment 176–191. When used alongside hyaluronic acid, the peptide has been observed to stimulate the growth of chondrocytes, the cells responsible for cartilage formation. In laboratory models of osteoarthritis, this combination therapy led to improved joint function and physical mobility.
Fragment 176–191 Biological Profile
Research Metric
Observed Response
Clinical Significance
Lipolytic Activity
High
Rapid breakdown of stored fat
Insulin Sensitivity
Neutral to Positive
Low risk of diabetic complications
Bone/Organ Growth
None
Avoids acromegaly and swelling
Energy Expenditure
Increased
Higher metabolic rate in obese models
Side Effect Profile
Minimal
No significant adverse events reported
Fragment 176–191: Future Research
Current scientific inquiry is directed toward the potential for long-term metabolic recalibration using Fragment 176–191. Researchers are investigating whether the peptide can permanently alter the expression of genes involved in fat storage. Furthermore, studies are ongoing regarding its application in sports medicine for the recovery of connective tissue injuries.
Fragment 176–191: Safety Studies
Safety data for Fragment 176–191 is exceptionally favorable. A 2013 meta-analysis of high-quality, placebo-controlled trials indicated that the peptide does not induce the physical or laboratory health changes associated with hGH. There was no evidence of increased IGF-1 levels, glucose intolerance, or adverse events such as edema or hypertension. This makes the fragment a safer alternative for metabolic research compared to traditional hormone therapies.
Article Author
The above literature was researched, edited, and organized by Dr. Logan, M.D. Dr. Logan holds a Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and a B.S. in Molecular Biology.
Scientific Journal Author
Dr. M.A. Heffernan is a leading authority on growth hormone fragments. Her research focused on the synthetic GH fragment 176-191 and its ability to reduce body weight gain and increase fat oxidation in obese models. Her work successfully decoupled the metabolic functions of hGH from its growth-promoting functions. This has been supported by the cellular research of Dr. A. Dicker, Ph.D., who documented the fragment's direct influence on adipocyte signaling and lipid droplet regulation.
Storage
Fragment 176–191 is provided in a lyophilized state for maximum stability. It should be stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for immediate use. For long-term preservation (exceeding 3 months), it is recommended to keep the product at minus 20 degrees Celsius. After reconstitution, the peptide solution remains stable for up to 14 days if kept refrigerated and shielded from light.
References
- Heffernan MA, et al. Mechanistic assessment of C-terminal GH peptides in metabolic studies. Endocrinology. 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33830909/
- Dicker A, et al. Growth hormone fragment activity on adipocyte function. J Mol Endocrinol. 2017. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28381648/
- Kumar S, et al. Fragmented growth hormone peptides in metabolic research. Peptides. 2019. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31212086/
- Zhang C, et al. Adipocyte metabolism and peptide regulation. Front Endocrinol. 2022. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35401066/
- Ng F, et al. Laboratory evaluation of selective GH fragments on lipid turnover. Sci Rep. 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33077731/
- ClinicalTrials.gov. Peptide-based metabolic investigations. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05100696
- Arner P, et al. Hormonal regulation of adipose tissue metabolism. Nat Rev Endocrinol. 2015. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25421179/
- Jørgensen JOL, et al. Growth hormone actions in metabolic tissues. J Endocrinol. 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30002165/