Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide (seven amino acids) developed in the 1990s at the Russian Academy of Sciences as a stabilized analog of the endogenous immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin . It is classified as a nootropic and anxiolytic agent, designed to enhance cognitive function while reducing anxiety without the sedative effects or addiction potential associated with traditional benzodiazepines .
Key Specifications:
CAS Number: 129954-34-3
Synonyms: Selanc, TP-7, Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro, TKPRPGP
Amino Acid Sequence: Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro
Molecular Formula: C₃₃H₅₇N₁₁O₉
Molecular Weight: 751.9 Da
Purity: ≥98% (research grade)
Appearance: White lyophilized powder
Solubility: Soluble in water and physiological buffers; soluble in DMSO
Bioavailability: Approximately 92.8% via intranasal administration, with rapid absorption within 30 seconds
Storage: Store at -20°C; protect from light and moisture
Mechanism of Action:
Selank exerts its effects through multiple complementary pathways :
| Target System | Effect |
|---|---|
| GABAergic | Modulates GABA receptor affinity, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission without direct agonism |
| Enkephalin system | Inhibits enkephalin-degrading enzymes, prolonging activity of endogenous opioids |
| Monoamine neurotransmitters | Influences serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine metabolism and turnover |
| BDNF expression | Promotes Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor expression, supporting neuronal plasticity |
| Immune modulation | Regulates cytokine balance (reduces IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α under inflammatory conditions) |
Key Research Applications:
| Category | Applications |
|---|---|
| Anxiety Research | Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) models; stress-induced behavioral studies |
| Cognitive Enhancement | Learning, memory consolidation, attention, mild cognitive impairment |
| Neuroprotection | Age-related cognitive decline, neuroinflammation models |
| Stress Adaptation | Stress resilience, normalization of stress hormone responses |
| Immunomodulation | Cytokine regulation, antiviral activity (influenza, HSV) |
| Substance Withdrawal | Opioid withdrawal syndrome (morphine dependence models) |
Clinical Status:
Selank is approved in Russia and select CIS states for treating generalized anxiety disorder and certain stress-related conditions . It is NOT FDA approved for any medical use in the United States .
Important Notice:
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. NOT FOR HUMAN USE, THERAPEUTIC, OR DIAGNOSTIC APPLICATIONS.
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