AOD-9604 is a modified C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone (hGH) that retains the lipolytic (fat-reducing) activity without the growth-promoting effects. It acts on adipose tissue by stimulating the breakdown of stored fat while reducing the storage of new fat (re-esterification) within adipocytes. At the molecular level, chronic administration of AOD-9604 increases the expression of β3-adrenergic receptors in adipose tissue, helping reverse the obesity-related suppression of these fat-burning receptors. Unlike full-length hGH, AOD-9604 does not significantly increase IGF-1 levels or impair glucose tolerance, demonstrating a placebo-like tolerability profile in clinical studies.