AOD9604

AOD9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug 9604) is a synthetic peptide comprising residues 176-191 of the human growth hormone sequence, with a Tyr0 addition at the N-terminus to improve stability and biological activity. The compound was developed at Monash University in Australia through research by Professor Frank Ng and colleagues, who sought to isolate the lipolytic properties of hGH from its growth-promoting effects mediated through IGF-1.

The research rationale for AOD9604 stems from early observations that the C-terminal domain of hGH contained a region responsible for fat cell regulation distinct from the N-terminal domain responsible for receptor binding and IGF-1 stimulation. By isolating fragment 176-191, researchers created a compound that activates fat metabolism pathways without triggering the mitogenic, insulin-desensitizing, or growth-promoting effects associated with full-length GH. This mechanistic separation makes AOD9604 a valuable research tool for dissecting GH's metabolic versus anabolic functions.

Preclinical research with AOD9604 in rodent obesity models demonstrated dose-dependent reductions in body fat, particularly visceral adiposity, with the compound reducing food intake in some models and increasing fat oxidation rates. A notable feature was the absence of hyperglycemia — a concern with full-length GH — consistent with the absence of IGF-1 stimulation. Phase II clinical trials were conducted in overweight humans, providing pharmacokinetic and safety data that inform current research applications.

AOD9604 is available for research purposes only and is not approved for therapeutic use. It remains a useful model compound for investigators studying adipocyte biology, lipid metabolism signaling, and the pharmacology of GH C-terminal fragments.