Urocortin is a peptide in the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family studied in laboratory research as a tool compound for the CRFR1 and CRFR2 receptors in vitro. This article summarizes its structure and how researchers characterize it in controlled laboratory settings only.

Structure: Urocortin is a linear peptide whose sequence homology with related CRF-family peptides makes sequence confirmation and analytical verification of identity important in the laboratory, so cross-reactivity controls matter in assay design. Researchers confirm identity and purity by HPLC and mass spectrometry and review the lot-matched Certificate of Analysis before use in experiments.

Laboratory applications: In cell culture and receptor-binding assays, urocortin is used to probe CRF receptor signaling, including cyclic AMP second-messenger readouts and comparative studies against related family peptides in controlled systems. Study designs typically include vehicle controls, a reference agonist, and analytical verification of the test article. No conclusions about human use can be drawn from in vitro work.

Analytical notes: Store lyophilized material as directed on the product label, protect from moisture, and document which urocortin form and lot number were used in laboratory records.

Disclaimer: This product and this article are for laboratory research purposes only. Not for human consumption. Not for medical, therapeutic, diagnostic, or veterinary use. No dosing, reconstitution-for-use, or efficacy information is provided or implied.

Citations: CRF receptor (CRFR1/CRFR2) pharmacology reviews; standard HPLC/MS peptide characterization methods.