CAS Number: 129954-34-3

Formula: C₃₃H₅₇N₁₁O₉

Molar Mass: 751.87 g/mol

Sequence: Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro

Overview: SELANK is a synthetic neuropeptide developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It is an analogue of the endogenous tetrapeptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), which is a fragment of the human immunoglobulin G heavy chain. SELANK features a Pro-Gly-Pro sequence extension, which provides it with significantly greater metabolic stability compared to the natural tuftsin.

Mechanism of Action (Research Context): SELANK’s mechanism of action is complex and multifaceted, primarily targeting the central nervous system. Research suggests its primary effects are derived from:

• GABAergic System Modulation: SELANK is believed to allosterically modulate GABA-A receptors, increasing the inhibitory effects of GABA. This mechanism is similar to that of benzodiazepines but is not associated with their typical sedative or habit-forming side effects.

• Neurotransmitter Balance: It has been shown to influence the concentration of monoamine neurotransmitters, including normalizing serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, which is critical for regulating mood and anxiety.

• Neurotrophic Factor Upregulation: Studies in animal models indicate that SELANK can rapidly elevate the expression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus, a protein crucial for neuronal survival, growth, and memory formation.

• Enkephalin Inhibition: SELANK may also act by inhibiting enzymes responsible for the degradation of endogenous enkephalins, which are natural peptides involved in stress reduction and pain response.

Research Applications: In a laboratory setting, SELANK is studied for a wide range of potential applications:

• Anxiety and Stress: Investigated for its potent anxiolytic effects in models of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, and stress-related disorders.

• Cognitive Enhancement: Studied for its nootropic properties, including its ability to improve memory formation, learning processes, and cognitive function, especially under conditions of stress.

• Immunomodulation: As an analog of tuftsin, it is also researched for its ability to modulate immune responses, including the expression of cytokines like IL-6.

Note: This product is sold as a lyophilized powder in a 10mg vial. It is intended for laboratory research purposes only. It is not for human consumption.