Adipotide
Adipotide (FTPP -- Fat-Targeted Proapoptotic Peptide)
Vascular-Targeting Peptide for Fat-Specific Weight Loss
What is Adipotide?
Adipotide, formally designated FTPP (Fat-Targeted Proapoptotic Peptide), is a synthetic peptidomimetic compound engineered with a dual-domain architecture. One domain functions as a homing sequence that binds selectively to receptors expressed on the endothelial cells of blood vessels supplying white adipose tissue. The second domain is a proapoptotic sequence derived from the mitochondrial protein KLAKLAK, which initiates programmed cell death in the targeted cells once the compound has been delivered to the adipose vasculature. Through this ligand-directed mechanism, Adipotide selectively destroys the blood supply to white fat, causing the adipose tissue to undergo apoptosis and be reabsorbed.
The selectivity of Adipotide's homing sequence depends on two receptors that are highly enriched on the vasculature of white adipose tissue: annexin A2 (ANXA2) and prohibitin. Research published in Science Translational Medicine described the compound's mechanism and initial animal results. In subsequent primate research, obese rhesus monkeys treated with Adipotide for 28 days lost an average of 11% of their body weight, experienced significant reductions in waist circumference and body mass index, and showed marked improvements in insulin resistance. These results were notable for representing some of the most targeted fat-loss results observed in a non-human primate model.
The compound's mechanism differs fundamentally from systemic anti-obesity agents. Rather than altering appetite, metabolic rate, or nutrient absorption, Adipotide physically eliminates the vascular infrastructure that maintains white fat depots. Metabolic improvements including increased insulin sensitivity and reduced fasting glucose levels were observed within 2 to 3 days of treatment initiation in murine models, preceding significant weight loss, suggesting direct metabolic effects beyond fat reduction.
Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial in humans to evaluate safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy in obese cancer patients. Adipotide remains an experimental compound with no approved human indications. It is available only as a research-use compound and is not approved or intended for self-administration.
Research Supply
Source high-purity Adipotide for your research
Dosage Guide
Route: Subcutaneous injection, once daily for defined treatment periods
Dosing Schedule
| Period | Dose |
|---|---|
| Obese mice (preclinical) | Approximately 2.5 mg/kg/day SQ for 28 days |
| Obese rhesus monkeys (preclinical) | Approximately 0.3-1.0 mg/kg/day SQ for 28 days |
| Human Phase 1 (escalation) | Multiple ascending dose levels for 28 days (safety/tolerability evaluation only) |
Reconstitution
Injection Volumes
| Dose | Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| Preclinical only | Per body weight calculation | No validated human dosing exists |
Administration Tips
- No human dose has been established as safe and effective through completed clinical trials
- Translating animal doses to human equivalents is unreliable for this compound due to differences in adipose vascular biology across species
- Any use outside a controlled clinical trial constitutes unvalidated self-experimentation
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated at 2-8 degrees Celsius and use within 30 days
- Renal function monitoring is essential given nephrotoxicity signals from primate studies
Risks & Side Effects
Commonly Reported
Serious Risks
Nephrotoxicity
The most significant safety concern identified in primate studies. Kidney injury markers were elevated in treated monkeys, and kidney histology showed changes consistent with acute tubular stress. Renal function monitoring is essential in any research context.
Uncontrolled fat apoptosis
The extent of vascular targeting in humans is not fully characterized. Effects beyond white adipose tissue vasculature cannot be ruled out.
Metabolic disturbances from rapid fat mobilization
Sudden release of free fatty acids and other adipokines from dying fat tissue may cause acute metabolic disruptions, particularly in individuals with pre-existing metabolic syndrome.
Unknown long-term consequences
Phase 1 clinical data in humans remains limited. Long-term effects are not known.
Contraindications
- Pre-existing renal disease or impaired kidney function
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Active malignancy (proapoptotic mechanisms may have unintended effects on other tissues)
- Pediatric use
- Any condition in which rapid fat loss would be medically contraindicated
- Individuals with known allergy to any component of the formulation
Frequently Asked Questions
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Experts Covering Adipotide
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Adipotide (FTPP) has not been approved by the FDA for any medical condition and remains an experimental research compound. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy. Individual results may vary. Peptides Institute is not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of information provided on this site.