Fat Loss & Metabolism
Adipotide
FTPP · prohibitin-targeting peptide
What it is
Adipotide is a peptidomimetic that targets prohibitin on the surface of fat-tissue blood vessels. It triggers apoptosis (programmed cell death) of those blood vessels, which then starves and shrinks adipose tissue. Originally developed as an experimental obesity therapy at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
How it works
Two parts: a homing peptide that binds prohibitin (overexpressed on fat-supplying blood vessels), and a pro-apoptotic sequence that kills the targeted cells. Result: selective destruction of the vasculature feeding fat tissue, leading to fat loss.
Benefits
- Targeted fat destruction (animal trials show 30%+ fat reduction)
- Doesn't require caloric deficit to work
- Mechanism distinct from GLP-1s and GH-analogs
Timeline
- Week 1–4
- Cycle of treatment in animal protocols.
- Week 4–8
- Visible fat loss; rest period required.
Dosing & titration
Animal trial dose~0.4 mg/kg subQ daily for 4 weeks
Human useNo established protocol; experimental
When to titrate upDon't — renal toxicity is dose-dependent.
Side effects & risks
- Renal toxicity (the major concern from primate trials)
- Dehydration risk
- Limited human safety data
- Not approved anywhere
Significant renal toxicity in primate studies. Human data is sparse. Most experts consider this too risky outside clinical research.
Typical price
N/ANot commercially available; research suppliers only.
Studies
- Barnhart KF et al. A peptidomimetic targeting white fat causes weight loss and improved insulin resistance in obese monkeys — Foundational primate study. PubMedScience Translational Medicine, 2011
- Search PubMed for adipotide — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice. Not approved anywhere; significant safety concerns.