HelixVault Peptide Index — Complete Research Reference
40 peptides tracked | Updated April 2026 | Evidence Tier 1–3 | Legal status reviewed
This is HelixVault’s master peptide reference database. Use the guide below to understand each compound’s research category, primary mechanism, evidence quality, and legal/regulatory status. Each entry links to our in-depth guides where available.
How to Use This Index
Evidence Tiers:
- 🟢 Tier 1 — Human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or FDA-approved clinical data
- 🟡 Tier 2 — Animal studies, in-vitro data, and/or limited human trials
- 🔴 Tier 3 — Preclinical/theoretical only; minimal published research
Legal Status:
- ✅ Approved — FDA-approved drug (prescription or OTC)
- 💊 Rx Only — Requires a valid prescription; not freely available
- 🔬 Research Only — Not approved for human use; sold for research purposes
- ⚠️ Gray Area — Compounding status unclear or under regulatory review
🩹 Healing & Recovery
BPC-157
Aliases: Body Protection Compound 157, PL 14736
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from human gastric juice that promotes tendon, ligament, muscle, and gut tissue repair by upregulating growth factor receptors (VEGFR2) and nitric oxide synthesis. Extensive rodent data shows accelerated healing across multiple tissue types. No completed human RCTs as of 2026, though anecdotal evidence is substantial in the research community.
Key uses: Tendon repair, gut healing, muscle recovery, anti-inflammatory
TB-500
Aliases: Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
An actin-sequestering peptide that accelerates wound healing, reduces inflammation, and promotes angiogenesis and cell migration. Derived from the naturally occurring Thymosin Beta-4 protein. Well-studied in animal models; used in veterinary contexts. Compounding status under FDA review in 2026.
Key uses: Wound healing, angiogenesis, inflammation reduction, soft tissue repair
MGF
Aliases: Mechano Growth Factor, IGF-1Ec
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
An IGF-1 splice variant released in response to mechanical stress that activates muscle satellite cells for repair and hypertrophy. Produced locally in damaged muscle tissue. Research suggests it acts first in the repair cascade before systemic IGF-1 takes over.
Key uses: Muscle satellite cell activation, hypertrophy, post-exercise recovery
KPV
Aliases: α-MSH (193-195), Lys-Pro-Val
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
The C-terminal tripeptide of alpha-MSH with potent anti-inflammatory properties. Studied for inflammatory bowel disease, skin conditions, and gut barrier protection. Acts via MC1R and NF-κB inhibition. Small but growing body of research.
Key uses: IBD/gut inflammation, skin conditions, anti-inflammatory
PEG-MGF
Aliases: Pegylated MGF, PEGylated Mechano Growth Factor
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
Pegylated form of Mechano Growth Factor with an extended half-life (~3 days vs. minutes for native MGF), allowing sustained muscle repair and recovery signaling after injury or training.
Key uses: Muscle repair, hypertrophy, extended MGF signaling
Collagen Peptides
Aliases: Hydrolyzed Collagen, Type I/II/III Collagen
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: ✅ Approved
Hydrolyzed collagen fragments that stimulate fibroblast collagen synthesis and support joint, skin, and bone health. Multiple human RCTs support benefits for skin elasticity, joint pain, and bone density. Available as food supplements (GRAS status).
Key uses: Joint health, skin elasticity, bone density, gut lining support
📈 Growth Hormone Axis
CJC-1295
Aliases: CJC-1295 DAC, Mod GRF 1-29
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A GHRH analogue that stimulates pulsatile GH release. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) form extends half-life to several days via albumin binding, while Mod GRF 1-29 (no DAC) provides a shorter, more physiological pulse. Frequently stacked with Ipamorelin.
Key uses: GH stimulation, body composition, anti-aging, recovery
Ipamorelin
Aliases: NNC 26-0161
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A selective GH secretagogue and ghrelin mimetic that triggers clean GH pulses without significant cortisol, prolactin, or appetite elevation — making it the “cleanest” GHRP. Widely stacked with CJC-1295 for synergistic GH release.
Key uses: GH stimulation, body composition, sleep quality, recovery
Sermorelin
Aliases: GRF 1-29
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: 💊 Rx Only
A synthetic GHRH analogue that stimulates natural GH release from the pituitary. FDA-approved for pediatric GH deficiency diagnosis and treatment. Widely prescribed off-label by anti-aging/longevity clinics. Compounding formulations available through licensed pharmacies.
Key uses: GH deficiency, anti-aging, body composition, HPA axis support
Hexarelin
Aliases: Examorelin, EP 23905
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A potent synthetic hexapeptide GH secretagogue with additional cardioprotective properties via CD36 receptor binding. More potent than GHRP-6 for GH release but also raises cortisol more significantly. Cardioprotective effects studied independently of GH.
Key uses: GH stimulation, cardioprotection, body composition
GHRP-2
Aliases: KP 102, Pralmorelin
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A growth hormone-releasing peptide that stimulates GH secretion and appetite via ghrelin receptor activation. Used diagnostically in some countries to test GH axis function. Less hunger stimulation than GHRP-6.
Key uses: GH stimulation, GH axis testing, body composition
GHRP-6
Aliases: His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A hexapeptide that stimulates GH release and appetite via ghrelin receptor activation. Pronounced hunger side effect makes it useful for those seeking appetite stimulation alongside GH benefits. One of the original research GHRPs.
Key uses: GH stimulation, appetite stimulation, body composition
IGF-1 LR3
Aliases: Long R3 IGF-1, Insulin-like Growth Factor 1
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A potent IGF-1 analogue with an extended half-life (~20 hours) due to reduced binding protein affinity. Promotes muscle hyperplasia (new cell creation), satellite cell activation, and systemic anabolism. Significantly more potent than native IGF-1.
Key uses: Muscle hyperplasia, anabolism, recovery, body composition
Tesamorelin
Aliases: Egrifta, TH9507
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: ✅ Approved
A GHRH analogue FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (excess visceral fat). Reduces visceral fat, improves metabolic markers (triglycerides, IGF-1), and preserves lean mass. Strong RCT evidence. Available via prescription; used off-label at longevity clinics.
Key uses: Visceral fat reduction, HIV lipodystrophy, body composition, metabolic health
MK-677
Aliases: Ibutamoren, Nutrobal, MK-0677
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A non-peptide GH secretagogue (orally active ghrelin mimetic) that durably elevates GH and IGF-1 levels. Not technically a peptide but consistently grouped with the GH secretagogue class. Orally bioavailable — a key differentiator. Development halted after Phase 3 trials.
Key uses: GH/IGF-1 elevation, muscle mass, sleep quality, bone density
🧠 Cognitive & Neurological
Selank
Aliases: TP-7, Tuftsin Analogue
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A synthetic anxiolytic heptapeptide derived from the immunopeptide tuftsin. Modulates GABA-A receptors, reduces anxiety, and enhances memory consolidation. Registered as a drug in Russia. No RCTs in Western literature but extensive Eastern European research.
Key uses: Anxiety reduction, memory, nootropic, stress resilience
Semax
Aliases: ACTH 4-10 Analogue, Heptapeptide
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A synthetic ACTH fragment that boosts BDNF, NGF, dopamine, and serotonin signaling. Approved in Russia for stroke, TBI, and cognitive decline. Intranasal bioavailability makes it practical. One of the most well-studied nootropic peptides in Eastern European literature.
Key uses: BDNF upregulation, cognitive enhancement, stroke recovery, neuroprotection
Dihexa
Aliases: PNB-0408
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
An angiotensin IV analogue that stimulates HGF/c-Met signaling, shown to be approximately 10 million times more potent than BDNF in promoting synaptogenesis in preclinical models. Extremely potent nootropic — very small doses (micrograms) are active.
Key uses: Synaptogenesis, cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, memory
DSIP
Aliases: Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A neuropeptide that promotes delta-wave sleep, modulates stress hormone (ACTH, cortisol) secretion, and may have antioxidant properties. Early research from the 1970s–80s; limited modern studies. Used in some sleep and stress protocols.
Key uses: Sleep quality, stress hormone modulation, circadian rhythm
Oxytocin
Aliases: Pitocin, OT
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: 💊 Rx Only
The hypothalamic “bonding” neuropeptide regulating social connection, trust, anxiety reduction, and peripheral anti-inflammatory effects. FDA-approved IV form (Pitocin) for labor induction. Intranasal formulations used off-label for social anxiety, autism research, and relationship enhancement.
Key uses: Social bonding, anxiety, anti-inflammatory, autism research
Adamax
Aliases: Adamantyl-γ-aminobutyric acid
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A synthetic GABA-B analogue with nootropic properties structurally related to baclofen with added CNS protective effects. Limited published research but used in some nootropic stacks for anxiety and neuroprotection.
Key uses: Nootropic, anxiety, neuroprotection, GABA-B modulation
⚖️ Metabolic & Weight Management
Tirzepatide
Aliases: Mounjaro, Zepbound, LY3298176
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: ✅ Approved
A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and obesity (Zepbound). Produces substantial weight loss (~20% of body weight in trials) and cardiovascular risk reduction. Currently the most effective approved weight loss medication.
Key uses: Weight loss, T2D management, cardiovascular risk, metabolic health
Semaglutide
Aliases: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: ✅ Approved
A GLP-1 receptor agonist FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Reduces cardiovascular events (SUSTAIN-6 trial). Multiple formulations: injectable weekly (Ozempic/Wegovy) and oral daily (Rybelsus). The most prescribed GLP-1 agonist globally.
Key uses: Weight loss, T2D, cardiovascular risk reduction, metabolic health
Retatrutide
Aliases: LY3437943
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A triple GIP/GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonist in Phase 3 clinical trials showing up to 24% body weight reduction in Phase 2 — potentially exceeding tirzepatide. Not yet FDA-approved; expected submission 2025–2026.
Key uses: Weight loss, metabolic syndrome, obesity, T2D (pipeline)
AOD-9604
Aliases: Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, hGH Frag 176-191
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
The C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone that stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis without affecting blood glucose or IGF-1 levels. GRAS status granted by FDA for food use. Phase 3 obesity trials failed; now studied for cartilage repair.
Key uses: Fat loss, lipolysis, cartilage repair, metabolic health
GLP-1 (Native)
Aliases: Glucagon-Like Peptide-1, 7-37
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: ✅ Approved
The endogenous incretin hormone that stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, inhibits glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite. Basis for the entire GLP-1 agonist drug class (semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide).
Key uses: Blood glucose regulation, appetite suppression, insulin secretion
MOTS-c
Aliases: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA Type-C
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A mitochondrially derived peptide (MDP) that activates AMPK, improves insulin sensitivity, and enhances exercise capacity. Levels decline with age. Exercise mimetic potential — stimulates metabolic benefits similar to physical activity at the cellular level.
Key uses: Insulin sensitivity, AMPK activation, exercise mimetic, metabolic health
🛡️ Immune & Anti-Inflammatory
Thymosin Alpha-1
Aliases: Tα1, Zadaxin
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: 💊 Rx Only
A thymic peptide that modulates T-cell activity, dendritic cells, and NK cells. Approved in 35+ countries for hepatitis B/C treatment and cancer immunotherapy support. Used off-label for chronic infections, immune dysregulation, and post-COVID recovery.
Key uses: Immune modulation, hepatitis, cancer support, chronic infections, post-COVID
LL-37
Aliases: Cathelicidin, hCAP18
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
The only human cathelicidin — a host defense peptide with broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties. Produced by neutrophils and epithelial cells. Studied for sepsis, chronic wounds, and COVID-19 immune modulation.
Key uses: Antimicrobial, antiviral, immune defense, wound healing
VIP
Aliases: Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide, PHM-27
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 💊 Rx Only
A neuropeptide with vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Studied extensively for CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome), MCAS, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Compounded intranasal form used by Shoemaker Protocol practitioners.
Key uses: CIRS, MCAS, pulmonary hypertension, immune modulation, vasodilation
ARA-290
Aliases: Cibinetide, Helix B Surface Peptide
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A non-erythropoietic EPO peptide analogue that activates the innate repair receptor (IRR) to reduce inflammation and neuropathy pain without EPO’s blood-thickening effects. Phase 2 trials for sarcoidosis-related neuropathy showed significant pain reduction.
Key uses: Neuropathic pain, anti-inflammatory, sarcoidosis, tissue repair
🕰️ Anti-Aging & Longevity
GHK-Cu
Aliases: Copper Peptide, GHK-Copper
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide that promotes collagen/elastin synthesis, wound healing, and antioxidant gene expression (SOD, catalase). Found in blood, saliva, and urine. Extensive in-vitro data; used topically in skincare with human evidence for skin remodeling.
Key uses: Skin remodeling, collagen synthesis, wound healing, anti-aging
Epithalon
Aliases: Epitalon, Epithalamin, Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A tetrapeptide developed by the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation that activates telomerase, elongates telomeres, and regulates the pineal gland and circadian rhythms. Russian literature suggests lifespan extension in animal models; limited independent replication.
Key uses: Telomere elongation, pineal regulation, circadian rhythms, longevity
SS-31
Aliases: Szeto-Schiller Peptide 31, Elamipretide
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A mitochondria-targeted antioxidant peptide that protects cardiolipin, reduces reactive oxygen species, and improves mitochondrial function. Strong animal model data across heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion, and neurodegeneration. Phase 2/3 trials ongoing.
Key uses: Mitochondrial function, cardioprotection, ROS reduction, neuroprotection
Humanin
Aliases: HN, MTRNR2L
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A mitochondrially derived peptide (MDP) with cytoprotective effects against Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Levels decline with age and correlate inversely with disease risk. Emerging as a biomarker for healthspan.
Key uses: Alzheimer’s, neuroprotection, cardiovascular protection, longevity biomarker
FOXO4-DRI
Aliases: FOXO4-p53 Peptide, Senostatin
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A D-retro-inverso peptide that selectively induces apoptosis in senescent (“zombie”) cells by disrupting the FOXO4–p53 interaction. Mouse studies showed restored fitness, fur density, and kidney function. No human trials as of 2026.
Key uses: Senolytic, cellular senescence clearance, longevity, aging research
NAD+
Aliases: Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, NAD
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
The essential coenzyme for cellular energy metabolism (ATP production), DNA repair, and sirtuin activation. NAD+ levels decline ~50% by age 60. IV NAD+ infusions and precursors (NMN, NR) are widely used in longevity medicine. Substantial human trial data now emerging.
Key uses: Energy metabolism, DNA repair, sirtuin activation, aging, cognitive function
🔬 Sexual Health
PT-141
Aliases: Bremelanotide, Vyleesi
Evidence: 🟢 Tier 1 | Status: ✅ Approved
A cyclic melanocortin receptor agonist (MC3R/MC4R) that increases sexual desire in both men and women via central nervous system pathways — not through vascular mechanisms. FDA-approved as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Also used off-label for men.
Key uses: Sexual desire, HSDD, erectile function (off-label), libido
Kisspeptin
Aliases: Metastin, KP-54
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A hypothalamic neuropeptide that triggers GnRH and LH release, regulating puberty onset, fertility, and sexual motivation. Studied for hypothalamic amenorrhea and male hypogonadism. Growing clinical interest as an alternative to traditional HRT protocols.
Key uses: GnRH/LH stimulation, fertility, sexual motivation, hypogonadism
Melanotan 2
Aliases: MT-2, Melanotan II
Evidence: 🟡 Tier 2 | Status: 🔬 Research Only
A cyclic alpha-MSH analogue that promotes melanogenesis (skin tanning) and sexual arousal via MC4R agonism. Not FDA-approved. Strong anecdotal use in the research community. Associated with nausea and spontaneous erections at higher doses. Under consideration for naevi/melanoma risk studies.
Key uses: Tanning, libido, MC4R agonism, appetite suppression
Quick Reference Summary Table
| Peptide | Category | Evidence | Legal Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| BPC-157 | Healing & Recovery | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| TB-500 | Healing & Recovery | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| CJC-1295 | Growth Hormone | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Ipamorelin | Growth Hormone | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Sermorelin | Growth Hormone | Tier 1 | Rx Only |
| AOD-9604 | Fat Loss | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| GHK-Cu | Anti-Aging | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Hexarelin | Growth Hormone | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| GHRP-2 | Growth Hormone | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| GHRP-6 | Growth Hormone | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| IGF-1 LR3 | Growth Hormone | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| MGF | Healing & Recovery | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| PT-141 | Sexual Health | Tier 1 | Approved |
| Kisspeptin | Sexual Health | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Tirzepatide | Metabolic | Tier 1 | Approved |
| Semaglutide | Metabolic | Tier 1 | Approved |
| Retatrutide | Metabolic | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Melanotan 2 | Sexual Health | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Epithalon | Anti-Aging | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Thymosin Alpha-1 | Immune | Tier 1 | Rx Only |
| LL-37 | Immune | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Selank | Cognitive | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Semax | Cognitive | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Dihexa | Cognitive | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| KPV | Healing & Recovery | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| PEG-MGF | Healing & Recovery | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Tesamorelin | Growth Hormone | Tier 1 | Approved |
| MK-677 | Growth Hormone | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| VIP | Immune | Tier 2 | Rx Only |
| SS-31 | Anti-Aging | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| Humanin | Anti-Aging | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| MOTS-c | Metabolic | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| FOXO4-DRI | Anti-Aging | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| ARA-290 | Immune | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| DSIP | Cognitive | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| GLP-1 | Metabolic | Tier 1 | Approved |
| Oxytocin | Cognitive | Tier 1 | Rx Only |
| Adamax | Cognitive | Tier 2 | Research Only |
| NAD+ | Anti-Aging | Tier 1 | Research Only |
| Collagen Peptides | Healing & Recovery | Tier 1 | Approved |
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
This index is provided for educational and informational purposes only. HelixVault does not sell, endorse, or facilitate the purchase of any peptides. Many compounds listed here are not approved by the FDA for human use and are sold legally only as research chemicals for laboratory use. Always consult a licensed medical professional before using any peptide or pharmaceutical compound. Regulations vary by country — verify the legal status in your jurisdiction before acquiring any substance listed here.
HelixVault tracks regulatory changes in the peptide space. Bookmark this page and check back for updates as the FDA reviews compounding rules in 2026.
Last updated: April 2026 | HelixVault Research Team
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