CJC-1295 Explained: DAC vs No-DAC for Research
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analogue of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). It exists in two distinct research forms — with DAC and without DAC — and confusing the two is the most common mistake in procurement. This guide explains the structural difference and its practical consequences.
What GHRH analogues are
CJC-1295 is based on the first 29 amino acids of GHRH, the shortest fragment that retains receptor activity. Four amino acid substitutions are made to resist enzymatic degradation, which is why the analogue survives far longer in solution and in circulation than native GHRH.
In research models, GHRH analogues are studied for their effect on pulsatile growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary, rather than for supplying growth hormone directly.
DAC versus No-DAC
CJC-1295 with DAC carries a Drug Affinity Complex — a maleimidopropionic acid group that binds covalently to serum albumin. This extends the studied half-life from minutes to roughly six to eight days, producing a sustained elevation rather than a pulse.
CJC-1295 No-DAC, also called Mod GRF 1-29, lacks that group. Its half-life is around 30 minutes, so it produces a sharp, short pulse that more closely mimics natural GHRH release.
Study designs that aim to reproduce physiological pulsatility use No-DAC, often alongside a ghrelin-receptor agonist such as Ipamorelin. Designs examining sustained exposure use DAC. Neither is 'better'; they answer different questions.
Handling notes
Both forms are supplied lyophilised and reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. GHRH analogues are more fragile than BPC-157 — mix by slow swirling only, and keep reconstituted solution consistently refrigerated.
Because No-DAC is short-acting, research protocols using it typically involve more frequent, smaller preparations; plan your reconstitution volume around that to avoid holding dilute solution for long periods.
Frequently asked questions
- Is CJC-1295 No-DAC the same as Mod GRF 1-29?
- Yes. CJC-1295 without DAC and Mod GRF 1-29 refer to the same modified GHRH (1-29) analogue. The naming difference is historical, not chemical.
- Why is CJC-1295 often studied with Ipamorelin?
- They act on different receptors — GHRH receptor and the ghrelin receptor — so research designs pair them to examine whether the combined signal differs from either alone.
- What is the half-life difference between DAC and No-DAC?
- Published figures put CJC-1295 with DAC at roughly six to eight days due to albumin binding, and No-DAC at around 30 minutes.
All information on this page is provided for laboratory and educational reference only. Peptides Lab SA (PTY) Ltd supplies compounds strictly for in-vitro research use. Nothing here is medical advice, a dosing recommendation, or a claim of human safety or efficacy.