Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist studied extensively in metabolic research contexts. This page provides a research-oriented overview of its pharmacology, published literature, and laboratory specifications. All information is intended strictly for qualified researchers.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a 31-amino acid analog of human GLP-1, engineered with a C-18 fatty diacid chain attached via a linker to lysine at position 26. This modification extends plasma half-life to approximately 7 days through albumin binding and reduced renal clearance, making it suitable for sustained receptor engagement in research models. The compound was originally derived from the GLP-1 sequence of Gila monster saliva-derived exendin-4 analogs and optimized for human receptor selectivity.
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide acts as a full agonist at the GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), a G-protein-coupled receptor expressed in pancreatic β-cells, hypothalamic nuclei, brainstem, and peripheral tissues. Upon binding, GLP-1R activates adenylyl cyclase via Gαs, elevating intracellular cAMP. In pancreatic models, this potentiates glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppresses glucagon release. In hypothalamic research, GLP-1R activation in the arcuate and paraventricular nuclei is associated with appetite-regulating peptide modulation, including NPY/AgRP suppression and POMC/CART upregulation. Gastric emptying rate reduction has also been demonstrated in preclinical models.
Published Research Highlights
The SUSTAIN and STEP trial series represent the largest peer-reviewed bodies of semaglutide research to date. STEP 1 (Wilding et al., NEJM 2021) documented significant body weight changes in obese human subjects over 68 weeks. Preclinical rodent studies have examined GLP-1R-mediated neuroinflammation attenuation in models of Parkinson’s disease (Athauda et al., Lancet 2017, liraglutide analog). Mechanistic research continues into GLP-1R expression in hepatic stellate cells and cardiac tissue. Researchers exploring metabolic syndrome, neurodegeneration, and energy homeostasis pathways cite semaglutide as a validated probe compound for GLP-1R pathway interrogation.
Research Use Only. Semaglutide is supplied by Bastion Peptides strictly for in vitro and laboratory research purposes. Not for human or veterinary use. Not intended for consumption or therapeutic application.
Laboratory Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₈₇H₂₉₁N₄₅O₅₉ |
| Molecular Weight | 4,113.58 Da |
| Sequence | His-Aib-Glu-Gly-Thr-Phe-Thr-Ser-Asp-Val-Ser-Ser-Tyr-Leu-Glu-Gly-Gln-Ala-Ala-Lys(C18 diacid)-Glu-Phe-Ile-Ala-Trp-Leu-Val-Arg-Gly-Arg |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC verified) |
| Third-Party COA | Janoshik Analytical — available on request |
| Storage | −20°C lyophilized; 2–8°C in solution (use within 28 days) |
| Appearance | White to off-white lyophilized powder |
Reconstitution Protocol
Reconstitute lyophilized semaglutide using bacteriostatic water (BW) for extended solution stability. Add BW slowly along the vial wall — avoid direct application to the lyophilized cake. Gently swirl to dissolve; do not vortex or shake vigorously. Typical research concentrations range from 0.5 mg/mL to 2 mg/mL depending on assay requirements. Reconstituted solution should be aliquoted into single-use volumes where possible to minimize freeze-thaw degradation. Discard unused solution after 28 days if stored at 2–8°C. Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL) is available separately from Bastion Peptides.
Available Formats
Bastion Peptides supplies semaglutide as a lyophilized research compound with Janoshik-verified COA. Each batch is HPLC tested to ≥99% purity prior to release. View current inventory and vial formats in the shop.
For research use only. This compound is not approved for human therapeutic use. Researchers are responsible for compliance with all applicable local regulations governing research compound procurement and use.
