GHRP-2

GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 2, also known as Pralmorelin, KP-102) is a synthetic pentapeptide with the sequence D-Ala-D-2-Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂ that potently activates the growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHSR-1a). It is one of the earlier-generation growth-hormone-releasing peptides, developed in the 1990s and used as a diagnostic test for GH-deficiency in Japan.

CAS 158861-67-7, molecular formula C₄₅H₅₅N₉O₆, molecular weight 817.99 g/mol. Wikidata QID Q21098924, PubChem CID 6918245, ChEMBL ID CHEMBL411550.

GHRP-2 activates GHSR-1a, the ghrelin receptor on pituitary somatotrophs. Receptor activation triggers Ca²⁺-dependent pulsatile GH release. Compared to the more-selective Ipamorelin, GHRP-2 is more potent at GHSR-1a but is documented to also elevate cortisol and prolactin to a small but measurable degree — likely an off-target effect on related GPCRs.

GHRP-2 is mechanistically synergistic with GHRH analogues (CJC-1295, Tesamorelin) — co-stimulation of GHRHR and GHSR-1a produces greater pulsatile GH release than either pathway alone.

Investigated in preclinical models of GH-secretion dynamics, somatropic-axis pharmacology and appetite regulation (ghrelin receptor activation also has central orexigenic effects). Researchers select GHRP-2 over Ipamorelin in protocols where higher GHSR-1a potency is required and the modest cortisol/ prolactin elevation is acceptable.

Supplied as a research-grade reference standard for laboratory use only. Not a licensed medicinal product in the United Kingdom and not approved by the MHRA for human or veterinary administration. Sale is restricted to researchers, institutions and laboratory professionals; the compound must be retained within research premises. End-user compliance with the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (where applicable) and local institutional biosafety policy is the responsibility of the buyer.