Selank

Description

Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It is engineered by joining the immunomodulatory tetrapeptide tuftsin—a naturally occurring sequence found in the heavy chain of human immunoglobulin G (IgG)—with a tripeptide sequence (Pro-Gly-Pro) at its C-terminus. This structural enhancement significantly improves enzymatic stability, resistance to rapid metabolic degradation, and bioavailability within the central nervous system, making Selank a valuable reference compound for investigating neuropeptide signaling.

At the neurochemical level, Selank exhibits a unique pharmacological profile as an anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) agent that lacks the characteristic sedating and muscle-relaxant drawbacks of traditional pharmaceuticals:

• GABA-A Receptor Allosteric Modulation: Research indexed in NCBI databases demonstrates that Selank acts as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA-A receptor complex. It enhances the binding affinity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)—the central nervous system’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter—to lower cellular excitability without inducing lethargy, tolerance, or addiction.

• Monoamine & Enkephalin Regulation: Beyond GABAergic pathways, Selank regulates monoaminergic neurotransmission by modulating dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine metabolism in brain regions like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Additionally, it inhibits enkephalin-degrading enzymes in blood plasma, prolonging the activity of endogenous opioids that regulate stress and mood.

• Immune-Brain Cross-talk: Inheriting immunomodulatory properties from its tuftsin lineage, Selank modulates cytokine gene expression (such as IL-6) and supports immune homeostasis during acute psychological stress.

Because of its balanced neurochemical activity, Selank produces anxiolytic and mild cognitive-enhancing (nootropic) effects simultaneously. Unlike conventional benzodiazepines, which suppress central nervous system activity broadly and cause sedation, memory impairment, and physical dependence, Selank calms stress responses while preserving mental clarity, motor coordination, and executive function. In preclinical research, it serves as an important tool for mapping the complex interactions between neuropeptide signaling, immune modulation, and mood regulation.

For in-vitro research and laboratory use only. Not intended for human or veterinary use. By purchasing, you confirm you are a qualified researcher and will use this compound in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.