Andarine (S4): Scientific Profile
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Selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) with partial agonism, investigated for its capacity to promote muscle anabolism and bone mineral density in experimental models.
Andarine (S4) is a research compound belonging to the class of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs). At the laboratory level, it is characterized by a high binding affinity for the androgen receptor (AR), acting as a partial agonist. Its molecular design was originally conceived to address conditions of muscle wasting and bone fragility, demonstrating in preclinical models a marked tissue selectivity that prioritizes musculoskeletal tissue over secondary reproductive organs.
In research settings of weight reduction and body composition, S4 has shown a unique ability to maintain lean mass even in states of induced caloric deficit. Unlike conventional anabolic steroids, its non-steroidal structure prevents conversion by the 5-alpha reductase enzyme into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), as well as its aromatization into estrogens. This selectivity minimizes the risk of unwanted systemic androgenic effects during trials.
The scientific literature highlights that Andarine possesses significant oral bioavailability, distinguished by a relatively short half-life compared with other compounds of its class. This allows researchers to observe rapid pharmacodynamic responses. Its application in osteoporosis models has suggested an increase in femoral bending strength and a positive modulation of bone turnover, which underpins its continued use in research on degenerative diseases of the locomotor system.
Mechanism of action
S4 binds competitively to the androgen receptor with an inhibition constant (Ki) in the nanomolar range. Following binding, the ligand-receptor complex translocates to the cell nucleus, where it acts as a transcription factor that modulates the expression of genes involved in protein synthesis and myogenic development. Owing to its nature as a partial agonist, it can compete with endogenous testosterone, regulating the anabolic response without fully saturating the receptors in non-target tissues.
Mechanism summary
S4 acts as a selective partial agonist of the androgen receptor, inducing anabolic gene transcription in muscle and bone tissue with reduced affinity in androgenic tissues.
Clinical Studies (5)
- In vitro anti-carcinogenic effect of andarine as a selective androgen receptor modulator on MIA-PaCa-2 cells by decreased proliferation and cell-cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase (Bölük A et al. · Biochemical and biophysical research communications · 2023) PMID 37302286.
- Detection of the arylpropionamide-derived selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) S-4 (Andarine) in a black-market product. (Thevis M, et al. · Drug Test Anal · 2009) PMID 20355219.
- Mass spectrometric characterization of urinary metabolites of the selective androgen receptor modulator andarine (S-4) for routine doping control purposes. (Thevis M, et al. · Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom · 2010) PMID 20623476.
- Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM) treatment prevents bone loss and reduces body fat in ovariectomized rats (Kearbey, et al. · Pharmaceutical Research · 2007) PMID 17063395.
- Exploring the potentials of S4, a selective androgen receptor modulator, in glioblastoma multiforme therapy (Yavuz, et al. · Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology · 2024) PMID 38997069.
Warnings
Andarine (S4) is a research-use-only (RUO) compound; the following warnings and handling considerations apply to its laboratory use:
- Substance exclusively for laboratory research
- Requires monitoring protocols for hormonal markers
- Handling by qualified personnel under controlled conditions
- Presence of preexisting hepatic pathologies
- Research models with diagnosed prostate carcinoma
- Pregnancy or lactation in animal specimens
- Known hypersensitivity to androgen receptor modulators
Technical data
- CAS
- 401900-40-1
- Molecular formula
- C19H18F3N3O6
- Molecular weight
- 441.36 Da
- Compound type
- sarm
- Storage
- 15-30°C in a dry place protected from light
- Shelf life (lyophilized)
- 24 months
- Shelf life (reconstituted)
- Not applicable (solid/oral administration)
- Light-sensitive
- Sí
Available for research
Andarine (S4) is available as a research reagent (RUO):
Frequently asked questions about Andarine (S4)
What is Andarine (S4)?
Selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) with partial agonism, investigated for its capacity to promote muscle anabolism and bone mineral density in experimental models.
What is the mechanism of action of Andarine (S4)?
S4 acts as a selective partial agonist of the androgen receptor, inducing anabolic gene transcription in muscle and bone tissue with reduced affinity in androgenic tissues.
What is Andarine (S4) researched for?
In preclinical research, Andarine (S4) is studied mainly in: Modulation of anabolism in musculoskeletal tissue; Research on the preservation of lean mass during weight reduction; Increase in bone mineral density in in vivo models. Material exclusively for scientific research.
What are the chemical properties of Andarine (S4)?
Molecular formula C19H18F3N3O6; molecular weight 441.36 Da; CAS number 401900-40-1.
How is Andarine (S4) stored?
Storage conditions: 15-30°C in a dry place protected from light; lyophilized stability: 24 months; once reconstituted: Not applicable (solid/oral administration); protect from light.
What routes of administration are studied for Andarine (S4)?
In research models the following are described: Oral. Use is exclusively for scientific research.