Epitalon
experimentalAlso known as: Epithalon, AEDG, Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly
**Mechanism of Action** Epitalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) is a synthetic tetrapeptide derived from the pineal polypeptide extract epithalamin. Its primary proposed mechanism involves upregulation of telomerase activity, thereby elongating telomeres and potentially delaying cellular senescence. Additionally, Epitalon is reported to restore age-related declines in pineal melatonin secretion by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to improved circadian rhythmicity and antioxidant defense in aging models. **Key Research Findings** Preclinical studies in rodents demonstrate that Epitalon extends median lifespan, reduces incidence of age-associated pathologies (e.g., cataracts, tumors), and enhances immune function. In vitro, the peptide increases telomerase activity in human fibroblasts and retinal pigment epithelial cells. A small human pilot study (n=12) suggested improved sleep quality and melatonin profiles in elderly subjects, though larger controlled trials are lacking. The peptide’s effects on telomere length in humans remain unconfirmed. **Clinical Relevance** Epitalon is not approved for clinical use by any regulatory agency. Its experimental status limits application to laboratory research on aging mechanisms, telomere biology, and pineal function. No validated dosing or safety data exist for human use beyond preliminary studies. For research purposes only — not medical advice.
Key data
C14H22N4O9Research & studies
Nine peptides were identified spanning diverse aging interventions: metabolic restoration, telomere biology, dermal regeneration, tissue repair, neuroprotection, growth hormone modulation, and sexual function.; FDA-approved agents demonstrated robust safety profiles from large-scale trials, while non-approved peptides lack long-term safety data and systematic validation.; Significant knowledge gaps include optimal dosing regimens, combination therapy effects, and biomarkers for monitoring efficacy.
Epitalon increased telomere length in normal cells through hTERT mRNA expression and telomerase upregulation.; In cancer cells, telomere extension occurred via ALT (Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres) activation.; Only minor ALT activity was observed in normal cells, indicating cancer-specificity.; Dose-dependent telomere length extension was confirmed by qPCR and immunofluorescence analysis.
Epitalon is a tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) derived from Epithalamin.; It exhibits geroprotective and neuroendocrine effects via antioxidant, neuroprotective, and antimutagenic actions.; It influences melatonin synthesis, interleukin-2 mRNA levels, thymocyte mitogenic activity, and enzymes like AChE, BuChE, and telomerase.; Physico-chemical and structural studies of Epitalon are limited despite extensive biological research.
Frequently asked questions
What is Epitalon?
**Mechanism of Action** Epitalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) is a synthetic tetrapeptide derived from the pineal polypeptide extract epithalamin. Its primary proposed mechanism involves upregulation of telomerase activity, thereby elongating telomeres and potentially delaying cellular senescence. Additionally, Epitalon is report
How does Epitalon work?
Khavinson tetrapeptide reported to activate telomerase and normalize pineal melatonin rhythms in aging models.
What is the research status of Epitalon?
Epitalon is currently classified as experimental, with 63 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.
What is the molecular weight of Epitalon?
Epitalon has a molecular weight of approximately 390.35 g/mol (formula C14H22N4O9).
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