AC-262536 is a selective partial agonist of the androgen receptor. In animal studies, it demonstrated about 66% of the anabolic effect of testosterone on muscle tissue, but only ~27% of its effect on the prostate. This indicates strong muscle-selectivity. By activating androgen receptors in muscle, AC-262 increases protein synthesis and muscle fiber hypertrophy. However, because it is a partial agonist, it seems to have a plateauing effect – beyond a certain dose, you don’t get proportionally more effect, which also helps limit side effects. Notably, AC-262 does not significantly bind other hormone receptors and had no significant affinity for those tested outside androgen receptors (meaning it’s quite selective). In practical terms, users see modest lean gains and strength improvements, but AC-262’s standout feature is its low suppressiveness. Research showed that even at muscle-saturating doses, AC-262 only minimally suppressed luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, so it doesn’t shut down natural testosterone like many other SARMs. This is likely why some users report that a full post-cycle therapy (PCT) might not be necessary after short AC-262 cycles (though caution suggests at least a mini-PCT). AC-262 also appears to mildly stimulate metabolism – it has been noted to modestly increase thyroid hormone levels, which could contribute to a slight uptick in metabolic rate and fat loss. Its “feel-good” factor (libido boost and cognitive enhancement) could be from minor androgenic stimulation in the brain combined with the absence of high estrogen (since it doesn’t aromatize). Overall, AC-262 is seen as a milder, refined SARM that provides a safe anabolic boost ideal for beginners or as a bridge between cycles.