What Is AOD-9604?
AOD-9604 (CAS 221231-10-3) is a synthetic peptide fragment corresponding to amino acids 177-191 of human growth hormone (hGH), with a tyrosine residue added at the N-terminus. Its molecular weight is 1815.08 Da, and the molecular formula is C78H123N21O23S2. The 16-amino-acid sequence includes the key lipolytic domain of hGH while excluding the growth-promoting (IGF-1-stimulating) regions of the full-length hormone. This structural distinction is central to AOD-9604’s research profile.
Developed originally at Monash University in Australia by Professor Frank Ng, AOD-9604 was designed to isolate and study the fat-metabolism-regulating properties of growth hormone independent of its anabolic and diabetogenic effects. The peptide has been investigated in both preclinical and clinical research settings and remains one of the most frequently requested compounds in the weight management peptide category for wholesale buyers.
AOD-9604 is supplied as a research-use-only (RUO) compound. It has not received FDA approval for human therapeutic use. Wholesale distributors, compounding research labs, and peptide brands can access bulk supply through our wholesale peptide program.
Mechanism of Action
AOD-9604’s mechanism of action centers on the lipolytic signaling pathway associated with the C-terminal fragment of hGH. Unlike full-length growth hormone, which acts through the GH receptor (GHR) and JAK2/STAT5 pathway to stimulate both lipolysis and IGF-1 production, AOD-9604 appears to engage a distinct, beta-3-adrenergic-receptor-like signaling mechanism that promotes fat metabolism without activating the IGF-1 axis.
In preclinical models, AOD-9604 has been observed to stimulate lipolysis (the breakdown of stored triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol) and inhibit lipogenesis (the de novo synthesis of fatty acids). These dual effects on adipocyte metabolism occur without the hyperglycemic or growth-promoting consequences associated with exogenous GH administration, which is the primary rationale for studying the fragment rather than full-length hormone.
Researchers have also noted that AOD-9604 does not appear to induce antibody formation against endogenous growth hormone, an important consideration for longitudinal preclinical studies. The peptide’s selectivity for lipolytic pathways without IGF-1 elevation distinguishes it mechanistically from GHRH analogs like Tesamorelin and GH secretagogues such as Ipamorelin and Hexarelin, which stimulate full-spectrum GH release.
Research Applications
AOD-9604 has been investigated across multiple research domains centered on adipose tissue biology, metabolic regulation, and cartilage repair:
Obesity and Fat Metabolism Research
The primary research application for AOD-9604 involves its effects on adipose tissue. In obese rodent models (ob/ob mice and Zucker rats), researchers have documented significant reductions in body fat without changes in lean mass or food intake. These studies suggest that AOD-9604 acts directly on adipose tissue to enhance lipolytic flux while suppressing new fat synthesis. The compound is a core tool in weight management research programs.
Cartilage and Joint Research
An emerging line of preclinical research has examined AOD-9604’s effects on chondrocyte proliferation and cartilage matrix synthesis. Studies in animal models of osteoarthritis have reported stimulation of proteoglycan synthesis in articular cartilage. This application connects AOD-9604 to the broader field of tissue-repair peptide research, with investigators sometimes studying it alongside healing-recovery compounds such as BPC-157 and TB-500.
Metabolic Syndrome Biomarkers
Researchers have investigated AOD-9604 in animal models for its effects on metabolic biomarkers associated with insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Studies have monitored circulating glucose, insulin, triglycerides, and free fatty acid levels during AOD-9604 administration, with some reports suggesting improved metabolic profiles without the glucose dysregulation seen with exogenous GH. Related metabolic compounds such as Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Cagrilintide are frequently studied in parallel.
Adipocyte Cell Biology
In vitro studies using 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and primary human adipocyte cultures have examined AOD-9604’s direct effects on lipid droplet formation, adipogenic gene expression, and fatty acid oxidation enzyme activity. These cell-based models allow researchers to dissect the peptide’s mechanism at the molecular level independent of systemic hormonal influences.
For high-volume research applications, visit the AOD-9604 wholesale pricing page.
Available Formats and Bulk Options
AOD-9604 is available from Wholesale Bulk Peptides in several configurations:
- 5 mg lyophilized vials — appropriate for pilot studies, cell-based assays, and initial pharmacological screening
- 10 mg lyophilized vials — suited for extended in vivo research and multi-dose protocols
- Bulk lyophilized powder — available in gram-scale quantities for CROs, peptide resellers, and private-label peptide brands
Custom vial sizes and labeling are available for qualified wholesale accounts. Apply through our wholesale program portal for access to institutional pricing.
Wholesale Pricing Summary
AOD-9604 wholesale pricing is volume-tiered to accommodate peptide resellers, compounding research facilities, and institutional buyers. Significant discounts are available at higher volume commitments. For detailed pricing, MOQs, and lead times, visit the AOD-9604 wholesale page. New accounts can apply through the wholesale program application.
Quality Assurance, Testing, and COAs
Every lot of AOD-9604 is subject to comprehensive analytical testing:
- HPLC — confirms purity of 98% or greater with retention time identity verification
- Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS) — validates the 1815.08 Da molecular weight and confirms sequence integrity including the disulfide bond between Cys residues
- Amino Acid Analysis — quantifies the 16-residue composition
- Endotoxin Testing (LAL) — ensures suitability for in vivo and cell-culture applications
Batch-specific COAs accompany every shipment. Access our COA library for downloadable reports and visit our testing methodology page for protocol details. See the Peptide COA Guide for interpretation assistance.
Storage and Stability
AOD-9604 lyophilized powder should be stored at -20 degrees Celsius in a sealed container protected from light and humidity. Under these conditions, the peptide remains stable for 24+ months. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or sterile saline, and store reconstituted aliquots at 2-8 degrees Celsius for use within 21 days. The disulfide bond in the AOD-9604 structure is sensitive to oxidative degradation; work under inert atmosphere (nitrogen or argon) when handling bulk powder. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by aliquoting reconstituted peptide into single-use volumes.
Compliance and Intended Use
AOD-9604 is distributed by Wholesale Bulk Peptides for research use only (RUO). It is not a drug, dietary supplement, food additive, or cosmetic ingredient. This peptide has not been approved by the FDA or equivalent agencies for human or veterinary therapeutic use. Purchasers must be qualified researchers or authorized distributors maintaining full compliance with applicable regulations. All downstream labeling and packaging must clearly indicate the RUO status of the product.
Related Compounds
Researchers investigating AOD-9604 frequently study it alongside other metabolic and weight-management peptides:
- Semaglutide — a GLP-1 receptor agonist extensively studied for weight management and glycemic control
- Tirzepatide — a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist with potent metabolic research applications
- Cagrilintide — a long-acting amylin analog studied for appetite regulation and body weight reduction
- Tesamorelin — a GHRH analog studied for visceral adiposity reduction via the GH-IGF-1 axis
Explore the full weight management peptide catalog and visit our Start a Peptide Brand resource for white-label opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About AOD-9604
Our wholesale support team addresses common inquiries about AOD-9604 sourcing, including reconstitution best practices, storage during transit, purity specifications, and documentation requirements. For product-specific FAQs, see the AOD-9604 wholesale page. For general questions, visit the wholesale peptides hub.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for informational and research purposes only. AOD-9604 is sold as a Research Use Only (RUO) compound. It is not intended for human or veterinary diagnostic or therapeutic use. All buyers are responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable laws and institutional guidelines. Wholesale Bulk Peptides makes no claims regarding the safety or efficacy of this compound for any purpose other than qualified laboratory research.