CJC-1295 DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies. The DAC modification dramatically extends its half-life, making it distinct from CJC-1295 without DAC.
Structure & Modification
CJC-1295 DAC is based on GHRH(1-29) with four amino acid substitutions plus a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC). The DAC moiety covalently binds to serum albumin after injection, providing:
- Protection from enzymatic degradation
- Extended half-life from ~30 minutes to 6-8 days
- Once-weekly or less frequent dosing
Pharmacokinetics
| Property | CJC-1295 (No DAC) | CJC-1295 DAC |
|---|---|---|
| Half-life | 30-60 minutes | 6-8 days |
| Dosing frequency | Multiple times daily | Once weekly |
| GH release pattern | Pulsatile | Sustained elevation |
| IGF-1 elevation | Hours | 9-11 days |
Research Findings
With a single injection, CJC-1295 DAC can increase plasma GH levels by 2- to 10-fold for 6 days or longer, and plasma IGF-1 levels by 1.5- to 3-fold for 9-11 days. After multiple doses, mean IGF-1 levels remained above baseline for up to 28 days.
Clinical Development
CJC-1295 was under investigation for lipodystrophy and growth hormone deficiency, reaching Phase 2 clinical trials before development was discontinued.
Regulatory Status
Neither CJC-1295 formulation is FDA-approved. The FDA has highlighted immunogenicity and safety concerns with compounded peptides. CJC-1295 remains a research compound.