Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a 31-residue GLP-1 analogue with amino acid substitutions and a lysine-linked C18 fatty diacid side chain.

Identity

Sequence

H-H[Aib]EGTFTSDVSSYLEGQAA[K(γE-2xOEG-C18 diacid)]EFIAWLVRGRG-OH

Residues

31

Molecular formula

C₁₈₇H₂₉₁N₄₅O₅₉

Average molecular weight

4114 g/mol

Monoisotopic mass (calculated)

4111.1154 Da

CAS number

910463-68-2

PubChem CID

56843331

Strengths

5–30 mg

Other names

NN9535 · NNC 0113-0217

Lys26, using GLP-1 numbering, carries a C18 fatty diacid joined through γ-glutamic acid and two 8-amino-3,6-dioxaoctanoic acid units, abbreviated OEG.

Identity data from: PubChem CID 56843331

Research overview

Semaglutide is a modified analogue of glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1, with a recorded chain of 31 amino acid residues. The discovery paper identifies two substitutions relative to the parent sequence, Aib at position 8 and arginine at position 34, using GLP-1 numbering [1]. A lysine at position 26 carries a fatty diacid side chain. The structure given here contains a C18 diacid connected through γ-glutamic acid and two OEG units; the chain retains a free amino terminus and a carboxyl terminus [1]. OEG denotes 8-amino-3,6-dioxaoctanoic acid within this linker [1].

The cited chemistry study examined how fatty acid and linker design influenced albumin binding and interaction with the GLP-1 receptor. Its design program considered albumin affinity alongside resistance to metabolic degradation [1]. The study also characterized the compound in mini-pigs, measuring plasma half-life and mean residence time as part of its analysis of the molecule’s persistence [1].

A later review describes reversible albumin binding in the development of modified GLP-1 analogues, with fatty acid and linker combinations selected while maintaining receptor activity [2]. It also examines cellular targets and receptor distribution. The tissues listed as expressing the GLP-1 receptor include the pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, heart, lungs, kidneys and brain [2].

Laboratory storage and handling

Store the closed container cold, dry and protected from light under the conditions specified for the lot. Let it reach room temperature before opening to limit condensation. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing of laboratory stocks. Record storage history and lot identity alongside experiments, and use standard laboratory protective equipment when handling the material.

Questions about Semaglutide

References

1. Discovery of the Once-Weekly Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Analogue Semaglutide. J Med Chem 2015. PMID 26308095
2. The Discovery and Development of Liraglutide and Semaglutide. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019. PMID 31031702

Identity data checked on 2026-09-24. Literature summaries describe published research models and are not specifications of any product lot.