A synthetic peptide with anxiolytic and cognitive-enhancing properties. It modulates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and has potential applications in treating anxiety and cognitive disorders.
Common Name:
Selank
Compound Name:
Selank
Chemical Formula:
C33H57N11O9
Molecular Weight:
751.9 g/mol
Sequence and Amino Acid Composition:
- Sequence: Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro
- Amino Acid Profile:
- Threonine (T):
- Frequency: 1
- Properties: Polar and hydrophilic, facilitates phosphorylation
- Role in the Peptide: Enhances the structural stability and solubility of the peptide.
- Lysine (K) and Arginine (R):
- Frequency: Each occurs once
- Properties: Positively charged, essential for molecular interactions
- Role in the Peptide: Critical for binding and signaling functions within biological systems.
- Proline (P):
- Frequency: 3
- Properties: Cyclic structure, contributes to the rigidity and stability of the peptide structure
- Role in the Peptide: Important for maintaining the conformation of the peptide, enhancing its resistance to enzymatic degradation.
- Threonine (T):
Structure:
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide, derived from the naturally occurring tetrapeptide Tuftsin. It possesses a stable structure that is resistant to enzymatic degradation, attributed largely to its high proline content.
Synthesis Method:
Synthesized via solid-phase peptide synthesis, ensuring high purity and precise control over the peptide sequence.
Solubility:
Soluble in water and physiological saline, making it suitable for injection and various pharmaceutical formulations.
Stability:
Stable at room temperature for short periods; however, it is recommended to store lyophilized or refrigerated for long-term preservation.
Function:
Selank is primarily known for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects in the central nervous system without sedative or negative cognitive effects. It modulates the expression of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and influences the balance of T helper cell cytokines.
Benefits and Uses:
- Widely used for its anxiolytic properties, improving anxiety symptoms without causing dependency or withdrawal issues.
- Shown to enhance cognitive functions and memory processing.
- Investigated for potential immune-modulating activities, possibly aiding in the regulation of various immune responses.
Side Effects:
Selank is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects reported. Some individuals may experience mild headache or fatigue initially.
Regulatory Status:
Approved in some Eastern European countries for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and stress management. It is still under investigation in other regions.