Selank

What Is Selank?

Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide with the sequence Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro, developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It is a structural analog of tuftsin — a naturally occurring fragment of the human immunoglobulin G heavy chain — extended at the C-terminus with a Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide to enhance metabolic stability and prolong its biological activity (Vyunova et al., 2018).

As a research compound, Selank has attracted significant scientific attention for its anxiolytic, nootropic, and immunomodulatory properties, extensively documented in preclinical animal studies and a number of human clinical investigations conducted primarily in Russia. Unlike classical benzodiazepines, Selank produces anti-anxiety effects without sedation, cognitive impairment, tolerance, or withdrawal in research models (Zozulya et al., 2008).

Mechanism of Action

Selank is studied for its complex, multi-target mode of action. Research suggests it functions as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABAergic system, influencing the expression of genes encoding GABA-A receptor subunits and related neurotransmission proteins (Volkova et al., 2016). It has also been shown to rapidly upregulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA and protein levels in the hippocampus, a region central to learning and memory consolidation (Inozemtseva et al., 2008).

In addition, Selank inhibits the enzymatic degradation of enkephalins — endogenous opioid peptides involved in stress and pain regulation — and modulates monoamine neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine (Vyunova et al., 2018).

Key Areas of Research

Anxiolytic Activity

Preclinical and clinical studies report anxiolytic efficacy comparable to benzodiazepines such as medazepam and phenazepam, without the typical side effect profile. In a clinical comparison involving patients with generalized anxiety disorder and neurasthenia, Selank produced similar reductions in anxiety scores along with additional antiasthenic and mild psychostimulant effects (Zozulya et al., 2008).

Cognition & Learning

Research models demonstrate improvements in conditioned avoidance learning, memory retention, and attention. These effects are attributed in part to BDNF upregulation and modulation of monoaminergic systems (Kozlovskii & Danchev, 2003; Inozemtseva et al., 2008).

Neuroprotection

Selank has been studied for its protective effects on cognitive function under stressors such as chronic ethanol exposure, where it normalized BDNF expression in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex and attenuated memory impairment (Kolik et al., 2019).

Immunomodulation & Antiviral Effects

Retaining tuftsin's heritage as an immunomodulator, Selank has been shown to influence cytokine balance, including modulation of IL-6 and the Th1/Th2 ratio, and has demonstrated effects on viral replication in research models (Uchakina et al., 2008).

Stress Resilience

Studies in stress-exposed animal models indicate that Selank dampens stress-induced behavioral and neurochemical disturbances, with optimal effects observed at moderate dose ranges and effects that persist beyond the acute administration window (Semenova et al., 2010).

Research Use Only

Selank supplied by Peptidos.eu is intended exclusively for laboratory and scientific research. It is not approved for human or animal consumption and must not be used as a medicine or diagnostic tool.

Disclaimer

The products offered by peptidos.eu are intended exclusively for research and laboratory use and are sold only to qualified professionals, institutions, or authorized entities. These products are not intended for human or veterinary consumption, nor for any application involving living organisms, including — but not limited to — diagnostic, therapeutic, or recreational purposes.

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• They are a qualified professional or entity, possessing the necessary competence, training, and facilities for the safe handling of chemical reagents;

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Prohibited Uses

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Regulatory Compliance

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