The Science

Compound Profiles. Peer-Reviewed Data.

Mechanism of action summaries based on published preclinical and clinical literature. No therapeutic claims. Primary sources cited.

For research use only. Not for human or animal consumption.

Amino Acids
39
Molecular Weight
~4,921 Da
Developer
Eli Lilly
Status
Phase 3 Clinical Trials

Mechanism of Action

Retatrutide is a 39-amino acid synthetic peptide engineered from a GIP peptide backbone, linked to a C20 fatty diacid moiety extending its half-life to approximately 6 days. It simultaneously activates three G-protein coupled receptors involved in metabolic regulation.

Receptor Pathways

GLP-1 Receptor

Appetite regulation via hypothalamic signalling. Slows gastric emptying. Glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells.

GIP Receptor

Enhanced insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. Lipid metabolism modulation in adipose tissue. Retatrutide shows greater potency at this receptor than natural GIP.

Glucagon Receptor

Increased energy expenditure through thermogenesis. Lipolysis stimulation in adipose tissue. Hepatic fatty acid oxidation. PCSK9 degradation affecting LDL cholesterol.

Published Research Summary

Phase 2 data (NEJM, 2023): Up to 24.2% mean body weight reduction at 48 weeks at the highest dose studied. Liver fat substudy demonstrated up to 82.4% reduction in hepatic fat content. Phase 3 TRIUMPH program ongoing across 13 countries including Australia.

References

Jastreboff AM et al. N Engl J Med. 2023;389(6):514-526.

Rosenstock J et al. Lancet. 2023;402(10401):529-544.

Coskun T et al. Cell Metab. 2022;34(9):1234-1247.

Access These Compounds

All compounds referenced above are available as research-grade lyophilised powder with batch-specific COA.

View Catalogue