SARMS Glossary for Researchers in 2026

A – Z Glossary

• ACP-105 – A non-steroidal SARM developed to selectively activate androgen receptors with minimal impact on prostate tissue. Known for its short half-life and experimental status.
• Androgen Receptor (AR) – A type of nuclear hormone receptor that binds to androgens (like testosterone) and regulates gene expression. SARMs selectively target ARs in muscle and bone.
• Anabolism – Refers to muscle-building effects. SARMs aim to provide anabolic benefits without androgenic (masculinizing) side effects.
• Bioavailability – The proportion of a compound that enters systemic circulation and is available to exert its effects. A critical factor in SARMs dosing.
• COA (Certificate of Analysis) – A document verifying the purity, identity, and quality of a compound, typically issued by an independent lab. Should include HPLC, NMR, and MS data.
• DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) – A potent natural androgen that SARMs attempt to mimic in target tissues without the systemic side effects.
• Endocrine Disruption – Endocrine disruption refers to the process by which external chemicals interfere with the body’s hormonal (endocrine) system – often with far-reaching health effects.
• Half-life (t½) – The time it takes for the concentration of a compound in the body to be reduced by half. Affects how frequently a research compound is administered. Helpful tool: SARMs half-life calculator
• HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) – A lab method used to assess compound purity by separating and quantifying chemical components. Often included in COAs. Further reading: SARMS & HPLC
• IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1)
• Ligand – A molecule that binds to a receptor to activate or block it. SARMs are ligands of the androgen receptor.
• LGD-4033 (Ligandrol) – A potent SARM with a long half-life (~24-36 hours). Studied for muscle-wasting conditions and performance research.
• LH (Luteinising Hormone) – Liver Enzymes (ALT & AST)
• MK-2866 (Ostarine) – One of the most widely studied SARMs. Known for good oral bioavailability and moderate anabolic effects.
• MK-677 Ibutamoren – An oral Ghrelin agonist with GH increasing potential
• PPARδ Agonist – A compound like GW501516 (Cardarine) that activates the PPARδ receptor, improving endurance and lipid metabolism – not technically a SARM.
• Peptide – A peptide is a short chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.
• RAD-140 (Testolone) – A highly anabolic SARM with a long half-life (~45 hours). Often researched for its potential muscle and neuroprotective benefits.
• S-23 – A very potent SARM with strong androgenic effects in preclinical studies. Often used in aggressive research protocols.
• SR9009 / SR9011 – REV-ERB agonists that modulate circadian rhythm and metabolic activity. Though sometimes grouped with SARMs, they have a different mechanism.
• SERM
• Tissue Selectivity – A key property of SARMs – they activate receptors in muscle and bone but spare reproductive or prostate tissue.
• YK-11 – A myostatin inhibitor and partial androgen receptor agonist, often grouped with SARMs but structurally distinct.

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SARMs Glossary: A – Z Terminology Explained

Confused by research terms like “HPLC,” “ligand,” or “RAD-140”? Our SARMs Glossary breaks down the most important technical and scientific vocabulary used in SARMs research. From compound names to lab procedures, this reference helps you understand labels, COAs, and clinical literaturewith confidence.

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