GC-1 (Sobetirome)
GC-1 (Sobetirome) is a highly selective, non-iodinated thyromimetic agent designed as a small-molecule agonist of the thyroid hormone receptor beta (TRβ) isoform. By demonstrating high selectivity for TRβ over TRα, GC-1 is extensively studied as a tool compound for investigating the uncoupling of beneficial metabolic pathways—such as cholesterol regulation and lipid catabolism—from the traditional thyrotoxic side effects typically induced by systemic thyroid hormone receptor activation in cardiac and skeletal tissues.
Structural Attributes to Note: The chemical structure consists of a diarylmethane scaffold with a substituted phenoxyacetic acid side chain. This arrangement allows for deep, selective binding within the ligand-binding pocket of the TRβ isoform. Unlike native thyroid hormones (T3/T4), GC-1 lacks iodine atoms, which alters its metabolic profile and receptor affinity, making it an essential reference ligand for mapping the transcriptional pathways associated with hepatic lipid homeostasis.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | GC-1 (Sobetirome) |
| CAS Number | 211110-63-3 |
| IUPAC Name | 2-[4-[(4-hydroxy-3-propan-2-ylphenyl)methyl]-3,5-dimethylphenoxy]acetic acid |
| Synonyms | Sobetirome, QRX-431 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₀H₂₄O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 328.40 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Selective Thyromimetic / Diarylmethane Derivative |
| Assay Purity | Refer to the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) supplied for the lot received |
| Physical Appearance | White to off-white crystalline solid |
Research Applications & Mechanism of Interest
The utility of GC-1 within metabolic and endocrinological research focuses on its ability to mimic specific thyroid hormone functions while avoiding systemic hyperthyroid-like cascades.
Primary fields of in vitro and preclinical laboratory investigation include:
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TRβ Selective Signaling: Mapping the transcriptional pathways recruited upon selective binding to TRβ1. Researchers utilize GC-1 to isolate hepatic metabolic responses from those modulated by the alpha-isoform (TRα1), which is predominantly expressed in the heart and skeletal muscle.
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Lipid & Cholesterol Homeostasis: Evaluating the upregulation of genes involved in bile acid synthesis, cholesterol efflux (e.g., SR-B1), and triglyceride catabolism within hepatic cell models.
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Metabolic Energy Expenditure: Investigating the compound’s capacity to stimulate localized energy expenditure and mitochondrial respiration pathways in diet-induced obesity models without increasing heart rate or systemic oxygen consumption.
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Regenerative Signaling: Studying the role of TRβ-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling in promoting hepatocyte regeneration and proliferation in chronic liver damage models.
Storage & Handling Guidelines
Store at controlled room temperature. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Cold storage may cause the solution to cloud or precipitate. If this occurs, return to room temperature and mix until clear.
Storage guidance is a house recommendation. Analytical documentation is per-lot release testing.
Related Research Compounds
Further reading: GC-1 Sobetirome research overview
Research Use Only Disclaimer: This product is developed, synthesized, and distributed strictly as a Research Use Only (RUO) laboratory reference chemical intended exclusively for non-clinical analytical and scientific investigation. It is not an FDA-approved drug formulation, active pharmaceutical ingredient, or dietary supplement, and is strictly prohibited for human or veterinary consumption. Kimera Chems provides these chemical batches solely to accredited institutional laboratories and qualified scientific investigators.
