AOD-9604Also known as: AOD9604, Anti-Obesity Drug 9604

Mechanism of Action

AOD-9604 is a synthetic peptide fragment of the human growth hormone (hGH), specifically designed to mimic the lipolytic (fat burning) effects of hGH without the other endocrine effects. It activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathways involved in energy homeostasis and lipid metabolism, promoting fat oxidation and lipolysis in adipose tissue. Unlike full-length growth hormone, AOD-9604 does not stimulate insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), reducing the risk of growth-related side effects.

Reported Research Benefits

Primarily used in research settings for investigating fat metabolism, weight regulation, lipolysis enhancement, and obesity prevention. Studies focus on its potential to support controlled fat loss, improve metabolic balance, and reduce fat accumulation in preclinical models.

Dosing Protocol & Reconstitution

Typically supplied as a lyophilized powder to be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. In research, subcutaneous injection is the common administration route using insulin syringes, with doses varying depending on study design. Post-reconstitution, the peptide is stored refrigerated (2–8°C) and used within 60 days. Precise dosing should be calculated with peptide-specific tools.

Research Notes

AOD-9604 has demonstrated efficacy in activating lipolytic pathways without the adverse endocrine effects seen in full growth hormone therapies. It has a relatively short half-life, necessitating frequent administration in experimental protocols. Research is ongoing regarding its anabolic vs. anticatabolic properties, with some studies indicating anticatabolic benefits in muscle tissue.

Research Summary

AOD-9604 is a synthetic analog of the C-terminal fragment (176–191) of human growth hormone, engineered to retain the lipolytic activity of hGH without its growth-promoting effects. It stimulates fat breakdown and inhibits lipogenesis via β3-adrenergic pathways independently of IGF-1. Phase II trials showed modest weight loss in obese subjects and an excellent safety profile.

Side Effects & Safety

Well-tolerated in clinical trials with no significant adverse events reported at doses up to 9 mg/day. Does not affect blood glucose or IGF-1 levels. Local injection site reactions may occur. Long-term safety data in healthy populations is limited.

Stability & Storage

Refer to research notes

Molecular Data

Sequence: H-D-T-Y-I-P-Q-T-L-Q-K-T-P-L-E-T-S-Q-S-Q-G-NH2
Molecular Formula: Cys-His-Asp-Tyr-Ile-Pro-Gln-Thr-Leu-Gln-Lys-Thr-Pro-Leu-Glu-Thr-Ser-Gln-Ser-Gln-Gly-NH2 (20 amino acid peptide)
Molecular Weight: 2010.3 g/mol
CAS Number: 141245-77-6

Primary literature: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=AOD-9604+lipolysis+growth+hormone+fragment