Literature Reviews

Compound-by-compound summaries of published peptide research. Each review covers the mechanism of action, primary research questions explored to date, notable findings, and the regulatory status of the compound.

These are written for researchers. They are descriptive of the published literature, not advisory of any particular use.

By compound

BPC-157

A 15-amino-acid synthetic fragment of body protection compound. Most extensively studied in rodent models of tissue repair — gastrointestinal protection, tendon and ligament integrity, and angiogenic signaling. No completed human clinical trials at the time of writing. Notable for stability in gastric environments compared to most other peptides.

Tesamorelin

A synthetic 44-amino-acid GHRH analog. FDA-approved (under the brand name Egrifta) for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Beyond that approval, used in research investigating the GH/IGF-1 axis, visceral adiposity in aging, and cognitive endpoints. Distinguished from ghrelin-receptor agonists by its receptor target (GHRH-R on pituitary somatotrophs).

Retatrutide

A triple agonist of the GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. Investigational compound in Phase 2/3 trials for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Notable in published Phase 2 results for the magnitude of body weight reduction relative to other incretin-based therapies.

Semaglutide

A long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist with a half-life of approximately one week (achieved via DPP-4-resistant structural modifications and reversible albumin binding). FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. One of the most extensively studied incretin mimetics — published research spans glycemic regulation, major adverse cardiovascular events, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and emerging neurology endpoints.

Ipamorelin

A selective ghrelin receptor agonist pentapeptide. Distinguished from earlier GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6) by its selectivity — published research shows GH release with minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. Used in research investigating GH-axis dynamics in isolation, often combined with GHRH analogs.

NAD+

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a central pyridine nucleotide cofactor. Substrate for sirtuins, PARPs, and CD38. Tissue NAD+ declines with age in many published models. Research has investigated NAD+ supplementation (direct and via precursors NMN/NR) on mitochondrial function, sirtuin biology, cellular senescence models, and neurodegenerative endpoints.

Methodology of these reviews

Each review describes published research findings as documented in peer-reviewed literature available at the time of writing. References are available on request.

Research use only

All compounds described in these reviews are sold by Rewerk for in vitro laboratory research only. They are not drugs, biologics, food, cosmetics, or dietary supplements. They are not intended for human consumption, veterinary use, diagnostic use, or any clinical application.