Selank

Molecular Information

Research Summary

Selank was developed by combining the tuftsin sequence (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) with a stabilizing Pro-Gly-Pro sequence. Research in animal models has demonstrated effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, serotonin metabolism, and enkephalin pathways. The peptide has been studied extensively in rodent behavioral models, showing anxiolytic-like effects without the sedation associated with benzodiazepine compounds. Additionally, in-vitro studies have shown immunomodulatory properties through its tuftsin component.

Mechanism of Action

Selank modulates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor trkB in animal brain tissue. It influences the metabolism of serotonin and its metabolites, affects enkephalin degradation through enkephalinase inhibition, and modulates IL-6 and other cytokine expression. The tuftsin component provides immunomodulatory activity through enhancement of phagocytic cell function.

Published Animal Studies

• [1]Rodent behavioral studies demonstrated anxiolytic-like effects in elevated plus maze and light-dark box paradigms without motor sedation (Seredenin et al., 2002)
• [2]Studies in mice showed increased BDNF mRNA expression in hippocampal regions following administration (Inozemtseva et al., 2008)
• [3]Rat models demonstrated modulation of serotonin metabolism with altered 5-HIAA/5-HT ratios in brain tissue (Kozlovskii et al., 2003)
• [4]Animal studies showed enhanced learning and memory in passive avoidance and Morris water maze tests (Kozlovskaya et al., 2003)

In-Vitro Research

• •Cell culture studies demonstrated increased BDNF expression in neuronal cell lines
• •Immune cell assays showed enhanced phagocytic activity and cytokine modulation
• •Neuronal cultures demonstrated neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress

Research Applications

References

1. 1.Seredenin SB, et al. "Molecular mechanisms of the anxiolytic effect of selank." Bull Exp Biol Med. 2002;133(2):156-158.
2. 2.Kozlovskaya MM, et al. "The nootropic and anxiolytic activities of selank." Exp Clin Pharmacol. 2003;66(1):5-8.