--- title: "Glossary of Research Compound Terms | BodyHackGuide" url: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/glossary description: "Searchable glossary of 75+ peptide and research compound terms. Definitions for BAC water, reconstitution, half-life, COA, GLP-1, and more." lang: en --- Skip to content Compare notes on r/BodyHackGuide (https://reddit.com/r/bodyhackguide) Compare notes with other researchers. Join r/BodyHackGuide (https://reddit.com/r/bodyhackguide) Reference # Glossary Searchable reference of 86 research compound and peptide terms. ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ ## A Acetylation A chemical modification where an acetyl group is added to a molecule, often to improve stability or bioavailability of peptides. Adaptogen A class of herbs and plant compounds (e.g., Bacopa, Ashwagandha, Rhodiola) that help the body resist physical, chemical, and biological stressors by modulating the HPA axis. Adjuvant A substance that enhances the body's immune response, sometimes used in research compound formulations. Agonist A compound that binds to a receptor and activates it, producing a biological response. Opposite of antagonist. Alpha-GPC →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/nootropic/alpha-gpc Alpha-glycerophosphocholine. A cholinergic nootropic that crosses the blood-brain barrier and raises acetylcholine levels, supporting memory, focus, and growth-hormone release. Amino acid The building blocks of peptides and proteins. There are 20 standard amino acids that combine in various sequences to form peptides. Amidation A modification at the C-terminus of a peptide that replaces the carboxyl group with an amide group, often improving receptor binding and stability. Anabolic Relating to the building up of complex molecules in the body, such as muscle tissue. Opposite of catabolic. Antagonist A compound that binds to a receptor and blocks its activation, preventing the natural ligand from producing its effect. Autophagy A cellular recycling process where damaged components are broken down and reused. Several research compounds aim to upregulate this process. ## B Bacopa Monnieri →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/nootropic/bacopa-monnieri An Ayurvedic adaptogen herb researched for memory enhancement, anxiety reduction, and neuroprotection via bacoside-A and bacoside-B saponins. BDNF Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor. A protein that supports survival, growth, and differentiation of neurons and synapses. Upregulated by exercise, sleep, and nootropics like Semax and Lion's Mane. BAC water Bacteriostatic water. Sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Used to reconstitute lyophilized peptides. Allows multi-use over ~28 days. Bioavailability The proportion of a compound that enters systemic circulation and is available for biological activity. Varies by administration route. Biomarker A measurable indicator of a biological state or condition, such as blood glucose, IGF-1, or inflammatory markers like CRP. BPC-157 →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/bpc-157 Body Protection Compound-157. A pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from human gastric juice, researched for its healing and tissue-repair properties. ## C Carrier protein A protein that binds to and transports another molecule through the bloodstream. Relevant to understanding compound half-life and clearance. Catabolic Relating to the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, often releasing energy. Opposite of anabolic. Certificate of Analysis (COA) →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/coa A document from a third-party laboratory verifying the identity, purity, and potency of a research compound. A key indicator of vendor quality. Cholinergic Relating to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Cholinergic nootropics (Alpha-GPC, CDP-Choline, Huperzine-A) support the acetylcholine system implicated in memory and focus. CJC-1295 →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/cjc-1295 A synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) with a longer half-life. Often used with Ipamorelin as a GH secretagogue stack. Clearance The rate at which a compound is removed from the body, typically measured in volume per unit time (e.g., mL/min). COA grade A rating assigned to a vendor's Certificate of Analysis based on lab accreditation, purity results, test date recency, and verification status. Concentration The amount of active compound per unit volume after reconstitution, typically expressed as mcg/mL or mg/mL. Cycle A defined period of compound use followed by a break. Cycling helps prevent receptor desensitization and allows the body to recover. Cytokine Small signaling proteins released by cells that regulate immune responses, inflammation, and cellular communication. ## D Desensitization Reduced receptor response after prolonged or repeated exposure to a compound. A key reason for cycling protocols. Dihexa →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/dihexa A nootropic hexapeptide analog of angiotensin IV, researched for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotective effects. Oral dosing typically 10-20 mg. Dose-response curve A graph showing the relationship between compound dose and the magnitude of biological effect. Used to identify minimum effective and maximum tolerated doses. ## E Endogenous Produced naturally within the body. Opposite of exogenous. Example: endogenous growth hormone vs. exogenous GH peptides. Epithalon →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/epithalon A tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) that activates telomerase, researched for anti-aging and telomere length maintenance. Exogenous Introduced from outside the body. Research compounds are exogenous substances that mimic or modulate endogenous processes. ## G GH secretagogue A compound that stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. Includes GHRH analogs and ghrelin mimetics. GHRH Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone. A natural hormone that stimulates GH release. CJC-1295 is a synthetic GHRH analog. GHK-Cu →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/ghk-cu A copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys-Cu) researched for skin regeneration, wound healing, collagen synthesis, and hair growth. GLP-1 Glucagon-Like Peptide-1. An incretin hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1 receptor agonists. ## H Half-life →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/halflife The time required for the concentration of a compound in the body to decrease by 50%. Determines dosing frequency. HPLC High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. An analytical technique used in COA testing to measure peptide purity, typically reported as a percentage. Hypothalamic-pituitary axis The hormonal feedback system connecting the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Many research compounds interact with this axis. ## I IGF-1 Insulin-like Growth Factor 1. A hormone produced in response to growth hormone, mediating many of GH's effects on tissue growth and repair. IM injection Intramuscular injection. Compound is injected directly into muscle tissue, typically providing slower absorption than subcutaneous injection. Insulin syringe A syringe calibrated in units (typically 100 units = 1 mL) used for precise subcutaneous injections of reconstituted peptides. Intranasal Administration through the nasal mucosa. Used for compounds like Selank and Semax that can cross the blood-brain barrier via this route. Ipamorelin →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/ipamorelin A selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin. Often stacked with CJC-1295. IV injection Intravenous injection. Compound is delivered directly into a vein for immediate systemic availability. Rarely used outside clinical settings. ## K KPV A tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from alpha-MSH, researched for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in gut and skin conditions. ## L L-Theanine →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/nootropic/l-theanine An amino acid found in green tea that promotes relaxation without sedation. Frequently stacked with caffeine for smoother, jitter-free focus. Lion's Mane →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/nootropic/lions-mane Hericium erinaceus. A medicinal mushroom whose hericenones and erinacines stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), researched for cognition, nerve repair, and mood. Loading dose A higher initial dose used at the start of a protocol to rapidly achieve effective tissue concentrations before switching to a maintenance dose. Lyophilized Freeze-dried. Peptides are commonly sold in lyophilized (powder) form for stability and must be reconstituted with BAC water before use. ## M Mass spectrometry An analytical technique that measures molecular weight and structure. Used in COA testing to confirm peptide identity. mcg Microgram. One millionth of a gram (1/1000 of a milligram). The standard unit for peptide dosing. Mechanism of action (MOA) The specific biochemical process through which a compound produces its effect, such as receptor binding, enzyme inhibition, or gene expression modulation. Melanotan II →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/melanotan-ii A synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), researched for tanning, libido, and appetite effects. mTOR Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin. A key cellular signaling pathway that regulates growth, protein synthesis, and autophagy. ## N Neuropeptide A peptide that acts as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator in the nervous system. Examples include Selank, Semax, and Dihexa. Neuroplasticity The brain's ability to form new neural connections and reorganize itself in response to learning, experience, or injury. Supported by BDNF-enhancing nootropics and exercise. Nootropic A compound that enhances cognitive function (memory, focus, learning, or neuroprotection) without significant side effects. ## O Oral bioavailability The fraction of an orally administered compound that reaches systemic circulation. Many peptides have low oral bioavailability due to GI degradation. ## P Peptide A short chain of amino acids (typically 2-50) linked by peptide bonds. Smaller than proteins, peptides are the basis of most research compounds discussed on this platform. Peptide bond The covalent chemical bond formed between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another during protein synthesis. Pharmacokinetics The study of how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes a compound (ADME). Determines dosing schedules. Pituitary gland A small gland at the base of the brain that produces hormones including growth hormone, LH, FSH, and ACTH. Target of many GH secretagogues. Preclinical Research stage before human trials. Includes in vitro (cell) and in vivo (animal) studies. Many research compounds are at this stage. PT-141 →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/pt-141 Bremelanotide. A melanocortin receptor agonist researched for sexual dysfunction. FDA-approved (Vyleesi) for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women. Purity The percentage of a sample that consists of the intended compound, as measured by HPLC or mass spectrometry. High-quality vendors achieve ≥98% purity. ## R Racetam A family of synthetic nootropics (Piracetam, Aniracetam, Oxiracetam, Pramiracetam) that modulate the glutamatergic and cholinergic systems. Typically paired with a choline source. Receptor A protein on or in a cell that binds to a specific molecule (ligand), triggering a biological response. Compounds work by activating or blocking receptors. Reconstitution →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/reconstitution The process of dissolving a lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptide in bacteriostatic water to create an injectable solution. Retatrutide A triple-agonist peptide targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors simultaneously. Researched for obesity and metabolic conditions. ## S Selank →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/selank A synthetic analog of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin, researched for anxiolytic and nootropic effects. Administered intranasally. Semaglutide →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/semaglutide A GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management and blood sugar control. Available in injectable and oral forms. FDA-approved as Ozempic/Wegovy. Semax →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/semax A synthetic analog of ACTH(4-10) researched for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and improved focus. Administered intranasally. Stacking Using two or more compounds simultaneously in a protocol, often to achieve synergistic effects. Example: BPC-157 + TB-500 for healing. SubQ injection Subcutaneous injection. Compound is injected into the fat layer beneath the skin, typically in the abdomen. The most common administration route for peptides. Syringe units Measurement markings on an insulin syringe. 100 units = 1 mL. Used to measure precise peptide doses after reconstitution. ## T TB-500 →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/tb-500 A short synthetic fragment of thymosin beta-4 (Ac-LKKTETQ, residues 17 to 23 of the 43-amino-acid protein) sold as a research peptide. The tissue repair, cell migration and wound healing evidence belongs to full-length thymosin beta-4; the fragment itself has no human data. Often stacked with BPC-157. Telomerase An enzyme that adds DNA sequence repeats to telomere ends, counteracting chromosomal shortening during cell division. Epithalon activates telomerase. Telomere Protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Telomere length is a biomarker of biological aging. Tesamorelin →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/tesamorelin A GHRH analog FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Stimulates natural GH production and reduces visceral fat. Tirzepatide →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/tirzepatide A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist researched for obesity and type 2 diabetes. FDA-approved as Mounjaro/Zepbound. Titration Gradually increasing a compound dose over time to find the minimum effective dose while minimizing side effects. Trophic Relating to nutrition, growth, or stimulation. A trophic factor promotes cell growth, survival, or differentiation. Trust Score →: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendor-trust-scorecard BodyHackGuide's 0-100 vendor rating based on COA verification, payment transparency, community feedback, shipping coverage, and active listings. ## V Vasodilation Widening of blood vessels, increasing blood flow. Some compounds cause vasodilation as a primary or side effect. Vial A small glass or plastic container holding lyophilized peptide powder. Common sizes include 2 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg. Free 2026 Peptide Cheat Sheet (PDF) 38 compounds and blends: vial sizes, BAC water volumes, dosing ranges and bloodwork markers. 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All rights reserved. · Terms (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/terms) · Privacy (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/privacy) Shop BHG Labs 20% off your first order, code BHG20: https://bhglabs.co/shop/?ref=zmgqyxku&coupon=BHG20 ## Structured data ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "DefinedTermSet", "name": "Research Compound Glossary", "description": "Comprehensive glossary of peptide and research compound terminology", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/glossary", "hasDefinedTerm": [ { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Acetylation", "description": "A chemical modification where an acetyl group is added to a molecule, often to improve stability or bioavailability of peptides." }, { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Adaptogen", "description": "A class of herbs and plant compounds (e.g., Bacopa, Ashwagandha, Rhodiola) that help the body resist physical, chemical, and biological stressors by modulating the HPA axis." }, { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Adjuvant", "description": "A substance that enhances the body's immune response, sometimes used in research compound formulations." }, { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Agonist", "description": "A compound that binds to a receptor and activates it, producing a biological response. 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