Hexarelin Research

1. Heart Protection

Hexarelin has demonstrated its ability to protect the heart by directly binding to the CD36 receptor and the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR). In mice studies, hexarelin has shown to prevent heart cells from undergoing apoptosis (programmed cell death) following a heart attack, leading to improved heart function, increased survival of heart cells, and reduced production of malondialdehyde (a marker of heart cell death). Notably, hexarelin has shown slightly better results compared to ghrelin in these studies[1], [2].

A study conducted in rats investigated the effectiveness of GHRP-6 in mitigating heart failure-related issues. The research found that GHRP-6 reduces oxidative stress and prevents myocardial remodeling in heart failure. Rats treated with GHRP-6 showed significant improvement in heart function. These benefits are attributed to GHRP-6's ability to activate phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) and regulate protein kinase B expression, which play essential roles in cell regeneration and survival[3]. Moreover, GHRP-6 also demonstrated the ability to shift the balance of nervous system activity towards parasympathetic dominance, leading to better long-term outcomes and reduced cardiac remodeling. Additionally, GHRP-6 treatment resulted in a reduction in the size of scar tissue following a heart attack[4], [5].

2. Improvement in Fat Markers

Dyslipidemia, the abnormal presence of fat in the blood, is an independent risk factor for diabetes. GHRP-6, however, has shown potential in correcting dyslipidemia in insulin-resistant rats, leading to a decrease in blood sugar levels and insulin resistance[9]. This finding implies that GHRP-6 could serve as an alternative treatment for severe dyslipidemia, potentially reducing dependence on current lipid medications.

3. Muscle Protection

Hexarelin's protective effects extend beyond the heart muscle. Studies in rat models of cachexia, which involves severe weight loss due to illness or chemotherapy, indicate that GHRP-6 safeguards muscle cells by regulating calcium flow and mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction[10]. Calcium dysregulation caused by chemotherapy is a primary contributor to the loss of muscle mass and lean body mass during cancer treatment. GHRP-6 has been found to counteract these chemotherapy-induced alterations in calcium regulation[11].