Selank

clinical trials

Also known as: TP-7, N-Acetyl Selank

**Mechanism of Action** Selank (TP-7, N-Acetyl Selank) is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the immunomodulatory tetrapeptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg). Its primary mechanisms involve modulation of the GABAergic system, including enhancement of GABA-A receptor sensitivity and regulation of GABA metabolism via inhibition of GABA-transaminase. Additionally, Selank stabilizes endogenous enkephalins by inhibiting their enzymatic degradation, thereby prolonging opioid peptide activity. This dual action contributes to its anxiolytic and nootropic effects, with additional influences on serotonin and dopamine systems observed in preclinical models. **Key Research Findings** Clinical trials and preclinical studies (68 PubMed references) demonstrate Selank’s efficacy in reducing anxiety without sedation, improving cognitive performance (e.g., attention, memory), and modulating immune responses. It exhibits a favorable safety profile with minimal side effects, lacking the tolerance or dependence associated with benzodiazepines. Research also indicates potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, including regulation of cytokine expression and oxidative stress markers. Dose-dependent effects on EEG patterns and neurotransmitter levels have been documented, supporting its role in stress adaptation and cognitive enhancement. **Clinical Relevance** Selank is under investigation for generalized anxiety disorder, adjustment disorders, and cognitive decline, with potential applications in post-traumatic stress and neurodegenerative conditions. Its rapid onset and lack of significant drug interactions make it a candidate for adjunctive therapy. However, larger confirmatory trials are needed to establish standardized dosing and long-term safety. For research purposes only — not medical advice.

Key data

Category
Cognitive & Neuroprotective
Molecular weight
751.9 g/mol
Molecular formula
C33H57N11O9
CAS number
129954-34-3
Administration
intranasal
Research status
clinical trials
References
68
Tags
anxiolytic, nootropic, tuftsin

Research & studies

Selank, a Peptide Analog of Tuftsin, Attenuates Aversive Signs of Morphine Withdrawal in Rats
Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine · 2022 · PubMed

Selank reduced total morphine withdrawal index by 39.6%.; Selank significantly attenuated convulsive reactions, ptosis, and posture disorders.; Selank increased tactile sensitivity threshold 9-fold in morphine-dependent rats.; Diazepam (2 mg/kg) reduced withdrawal index by 49.3% and increased sensitivity threshold 13-fold.

The Influence of Selank on the Level of Cytokines Under the Conditions of "Social" Stress
Current reviews in clinical and experimental pharmacology · 2021 · PubMed

Social stress significantly increased IL-1β, IL-6, and TGF-β1 levels in rats.; Selank decreased IL-1β, IL-6, TGF-β1, and TNF-α concentrations under stress.; Selank restored IL-4 levels that were reduced by stress.; The peptide's effects brought cytokine levels close to control values.

Morphological Changes in the Large Intestine of Rats Subjected to Chronic Restraint Stress and Treated with Selank
Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine · 2020 · PubMed
Functional Connectomic Approach to Studying Selank and Semax Effects
Doklady biological sciences : proceedings of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR, Biological sciences sections · 2020 · PubMed

Selank and Semax altered functional connectivity between the right amygdala and right temporal cortex.; Both general and specific effects of Selank and Semax on amygdala-temporal connectivity were observed.; Differences in connectivity were found in fusiform, inferior/middle temporal, and parahippocampal gyri.

Selank, Peptide Analogue of Tuftsin, Protects Against Ethanol-Induced Memory Impairment by Regulating of BDNF Content in the Hippocampus and Prefrontal Cortex in Rats
Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine · 2019 · PubMed
State of Colon Microbiota in Rats during Chronic Restraint Stress and Selank Treatment
Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine · 2019 · PubMed
Effect of Selank on Morphological Parameters of Rat Liver in Chronic Foot-Shock Stress
Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine · 2019 · PubMed

Chronic foot-shock stress caused hydropic degeneration, increased nucleus/cytoplasm ratio, focal necroses, and lymphohistiocyte infiltration in rat liver.; Selank at all tested doses reduced the intensity of stress-induced degenerative changes.; Doses of 300 and 1000 μg/kg restored the nucleus/cytoplasm ratio in hepatocytes.; The maximum stress-limiting effect was observed with 300 μg/kg Selank.

Peptide-based Anxiolytics: The Molecular Aspects of Heptapeptide Selank Biological Activity
Protein and peptide letters · 2018 · PubMed

Selank affects [3H]GABA binding as a positive allosteric modulator.; Joint action of Selank and benzodiazepines regulates GABA binding in a specific, non-cumulative manner.; Selank blocks the modulatory activity of Diazepam and Olanzapine, with binding sites that may partially overlap.; Selank's anti-anxiety mechanism may involve subtype-selective, concentration-dependent allosteric modulation of GABA receptors.

Frequently asked questions

What is Selank?

**Mechanism of Action** Selank (TP-7, N-Acetyl Selank) is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the immunomodulatory tetrapeptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg). Its primary mechanisms involve modulation of the GABAergic system, including enhancement of GABA-A receptor sensitivity and regulation of GABA metabolism via inhib

How does Selank work?

Tuftsin-derived heptapeptide with anxiolytic and nootropic effects via GABAergic modulation and enkephalin stabilization.

What is the research status of Selank?

Selank is currently classified as clinical trials, with 68 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.

What is the molecular weight of Selank?

Selank has a molecular weight of approximately 751.9 g/mol (formula C33H57N11O9).

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