Ostarine MK-2886 is a non-steroidal Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM) with tissue-selective anabolic and androgenic pharmacological properties. In the scientific literature, it is also known as enbosarm, GTx-024, or S-22.

This SARM was originally discovered in 1998 by James T. Dalton, Duane D. Miller, Karen A. Veverka, and their respective research teams at Ohio State University, the University of Tennessee, and GTx. GTx acquired the licensing rights from these research teams and further sublicensed the development of MK-2886 to Merck & Co.

MK-2886 is one of the first SARMs to be synthesized and studied in both rats and primates, making it one of the most extensively researched SARMs.

In one study focusing on adult rats, specifically their fat cells or adipocytes, the administration of MK-2886 Ostarine reduced the expression of fat-related hormones like leptin and adiponectin mRNA. Researchers concluded that MK-2886 is likely to have an effect similar to that of testosterone on the AR receptors, leading to a reduction in body fat in rats. Source

Another study showed that MK-2886 Ostarine also stimulates bone growth in rats. At the highest dosage, 4 mg/kg, the test subjects exhibited improved bone density, quicker healing time, and higher markers of bone growth hormones such as phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase.

Interestingly, all rats in the research group showed an increase in the weight of the gastrocnemius muscle, even at the lowest dosage of 0.04 mg/kg. Serum cholesterol levels were also lowered in this group, indicating an improved lipid profile. Source

In a subsequent study, similar results were observed; rats with clinically induced osteoporosis showed increased bone density when treated with moderate to high doses of MK-2866. Source

A third study evaluated muscle growth in mice genetically modified to lack traditional androgen receptors. After removing the mice's endogenous testosterone-producing cells, muscle degradation began, and MK-2886 treatment was initiated. These mice showed muscle growth in androgen-sensitive muscles via an alternative pathway, different from that of the traditional androgen receptors. Source