TB-500

preclinical

Also known as: Thymosin Beta-4 fragment, TB4 Ac-SDKP region

**Mechanism of Action** TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4 fragment) is a synthetic peptide corresponding to the actin-binding domain (Ac-SDKP region) of the endogenous protein thymosin β4. Its primary mechanism involves sequestering monomeric actin (G-actin), thereby modulating cytoskeletal dynamics and promoting cell migration. This activity enhances endothelial cell motility, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling, while also reducing inflammation via inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. The peptide upregulates focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and integrin-linked kinase (ILK) signaling, facilitating tissue repair processes. **Key Research Findings** Preclinical studies demonstrate TB-500 accelerates wound healing, corneal repair, and cardiac recovery post-ischemia. In rodent models, it reduces infarct size and improves cardiac function after myocardial infarction by promoting neovascularization and reducing fibrosis. Additionally, it enhances dermal wound closure and hair growth in murine models, with evidence of reduced scar formation. Notably, TB-500 shows synergy with other growth factors (e.g., VEGF) in angiogenesis assays. However, no human clinical trials have been completed; all data derive from *in vitro* and animal studies. **Clinical Relevance** Despite widespread use in veterinary and off-label human applications, TB-500 lacks FDA approval for any indication. Its potential utility in chronic wounds, ischemic injury, and inflammatory conditions remains unvalidated in controlled human trials. Safety data are limited, with risks including theoretical tumor promotion (via angiogenesis) and unknown long-term effects. Current evidence supports only preclinical investigation. For research purposes only — not medical advice.

Key data

Category
Healing & Recovery
Molecular weight
889 g/mol
Molecular formula
C38H68N10O14
CAS number
885340-08-9
Administration
subcutaneous, intramuscular
Research status
preclinical
References
16
Tags
healing, actin, flexibility

Research & studies

Comparative effects of dietary sodium butyrate and tributyrin on broiler chickens' performance, gene expression, intestinal histomorphometry, blood indices, and litter
Scientific reports · 2025 · PubMed
Simultaneous quantification of TB-500 and its metabolites in in-vitro experiments and rats by UHPLC-Q-Exactive orbitrap MS/MS and their screening by wound healing activities in-vitro
Journal of chromatography. B, Analytical technologies in the biomedical and life sciences · 2024 · PubMed

Ac-LK was the primary metabolite with highest concentration in rats at 0-6 h intervals.; Ac-LKK was detected as a long-term metabolite up to 72 hours.; No cytotoxicity was observed for TB-500 or its metabolites.; Ac-LKKTE showed significant wound healing activity compared to control, while parent TB-500 did not.

Adsorption effects of the doping relevant peptides Insulin Lispro, Synachten, TB-500 and GHRP 5
Analytical biochemistry · 2017 · PubMed
Solid-phase extraction of small biologically active peptides on cartridges and microelution 96-well plates from human urine
Drug testing and analysis · 2016 · PubMed
In vitro models for metabolic studies of small peptide hormones in sport drug testing
Journal of peptide science : an official publication of the European Peptide Society · 2015 · PubMed
Doping control analysis of seven bioactive peptides in horse plasma by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry · 2013 · PubMed
Doping control analysis of TB-500, a synthetic version of an active region of thymosin β₄, in equine urine and plasma by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
Journal of chromatography. A · 2012 · PubMed
Synthesis and characterization of the N-terminal acetylated 17-23 fragment of thymosin beta 4 identified in TB-500, a product suspected to possess doping potential
Drug testing and analysis · 2012 · PubMed

Ac-LKKTETQ was detected and identified in TB-500 via HPLC/HRMS.; The peptide was synthesized by solid-phase peptide synthesis.; An analytical method for detection in plasma and urine was suggested.

Frequently asked questions

What is TB-500?

**Mechanism of Action** TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4 fragment) is a synthetic peptide corresponding to the actin-binding domain (Ac-SDKP region) of the endogenous protein thymosin β4. Its primary mechanism involves sequestering monomeric actin (G-actin), thereby modulating cytoskeletal dynamics and promoting cell migration.

How does TB-500 work?

Synthetic version of the actin-binding region of thymosin β4; promotes cell migration, angiogenesis, and wound repair.

What is the research status of TB-500?

TB-500 is currently classified as preclinical, with 16 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.

What is the molecular weight of TB-500?

TB-500 has a molecular weight of approximately 889 g/mol (formula C38H68N10O14).

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