Semaglutide Peptide - GLP-1 Agonist

Semaglutide for Research: Complete Scientific Overview

Semaglutide is a synthetic analog of human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) acting as a selective GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is structurally modified through substitution of alanine at position 8 with α-aminoisobutyric acid (Aib) and acylation of lysine at position 26 with a C18 fatty diacid chain. These modifications confer resistance to degradation by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) and enable strong albumin binding, resulting in an extended half-life of approximately 165-184 hours, making it a valuable long-acting tool for metabolic research.

Mechanism of Action

Semaglutide selectively binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptor, which is primarily expressed on pancreatic β-cells, but also found in the brain, gastrointestinal tract, and other tissues. GLP-1 receptor activation stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells, suppresses glucagon release from α-cells, and slows gastric emptying. Additionally, central GLP-1 receptor activation in the hypothalamus contributes to appetite regulation and satiety signaling. These multifaceted effects make Semaglutide a subject of extensive research in metabolic disorders.

Research Applications

• Metabolic Syndrome Studies: Investigating the integrated effects on glucose metabolism and body weight regulation
• Glucose Homeostasis Research: Understanding GLP-1-mediated insulin secretion and glucagon suppression
• Appetite Regulation Mechanisms: Studying central GLP-1 receptor pathways in feeding behavior
• Cardiovascular Metabolic Research: Exploring GLP-1's cardioprotective effects beyond glycemic control
• Endocrinology and Diabetes Models: Investigating therapeutic interventions in preclinical metabolic disease models
• Receptor Pharmacology: Characterizing binding affinity, selectivity, and signaling bias at the GLP-1 receptor
• Incretin Comparative Studies: Comparing efficacy profiles among various GLP-1 receptor agonists

Chemical Information

CAS Number: 910463-68-2
Molecular Formula: C187H291N45O59
Molecular Weight: 4113.58 g/mol
Sequence: H-His-Aib-Glu-Gly-Thr-Phe-Thr-Ser-Asp-Val-Ser-Ser-Tyr-Leu-Glu-Gly-Gln-Ala-Ala-Lys(AEEA-AEEA-γ-Glu-17-carboxyheptadecanoyl)-Glu-Phe-Ile-Ala-Trp-Leu-Val-Arg-Gly-Arg-Gly-OH
Purity: >99% (HPLC)
Form: Lyophilized powder
Storage: -20°C (lyophilized), 4°C (reconstituted)

Handling and Reconstitution Protocols

For optimal stability and research validity, Semaglutide should be reconstituted with sterile bacteriostatic water or sterile saline. Allow the lyophilized powder to dissolve completely without vigorous shaking to maintain peptide integrity. Once reconstituted, the solution should be stored at 4°C and used within 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to preserve peptide structure and biological activity.