LABS
Semaglutide0.25mg × 4 pens · RESEARCH USE ONLY
Semaglutide
GLP-1 receptor agonist — the research compound behind Wegovy and Ozempic — studied for appetite regulation and metabolic pathways.
Product information
For research use only. Not for human consumption, diagnostic, therapeutic or veterinary use.
Overview
Semaglutide is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist originally developed by Novo Nordisk. It is the active compound in Ozempic (for type 2 diabetes research) and Wegovy (for obesity research), both of which have generated landmark clinical trial data. Semaglutide shares 94% structural homology with native human GLP-1 but includes key modifications — an amino acid substitution at position 8 (Aib) and a C-18 fatty di-acid chain attached via a linker at position 26 — that extend its half-life to approximately 7 days, enabling once-weekly dosing in research protocols.
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), a class B G-protein-coupled receptor expressed on pancreatic beta cells, hypothalamic neurons, and gastrointestinal vagal afferents. GLP-1R activation on beta cells potentiates glucose-dependent insulin secretion via cAMP-PKA signalling. In the hypothalamus, it activates POMC/CART neurons while inhibiting NPY/AgRP neurons in the arcuate nucleus, producing satiety signals. Semaglutide also delays gastric emptying through vagal pathways, prolonging post-meal satiation. The C-18 fatty di-acid enables reversible albumin binding, protecting against DPP-IV degradation and renal clearance.
Research Applications
- GLP-1 receptor pharmacology and signalling research
- Appetite regulation and central satiety pathway studies
- Body composition and metabolic parameter research
- Gastric motility and vagal signalling investigation
- Long-acting peptide pharmacokinetics research