Research Context
Our Selank is a 7-amino-acid synthetic heptapeptide (TKPRPGP) modeled as a stabilized analog of tuftsin, synthesized to >99% HPLC purity for anxiolytic, GABAergic, and immunomodulatory research. Frequently referred to in laboratory shorthand as Selank, this compound is studied for GABA-A receptor modulation, BDNF upregulation, and stress resilience in controlled laboratory investigations alongside complementary cognitive research compounds for comparative neurobiological studies.
A synthetic analog of tuftsin investigated for anxiolytic and immunomodulatory mechanisms.
99% HPLC Purity · For Laboratory Research Use Only
Key Research Findings (At a Glance)
| Parameter | Summary |
|---|---|
| Peptide Structure | 7 amino acids (TKPRPGP) |
| Origin | Synthetic analog of tuftsin (immunomodulatory tetrapeptide) |
| Primary Mechanism | GABA-A allosteric modulation, BDNF upregulation, serotonin balance |
| Key Research Areas | Anxiolysis, stress response, GABAergic signaling, immune modulation |
| Distinguishing Feature | Anxiolytic without sedation or cognitive impairment |
| Key Differentiator from Benzodiazepines | Reduces anxiety without sedation, tolerance, or dependence |
| Common Dosage Range (Preclinical) | 50–300 mcg (intranasal); 100–500 mcg (subcutaneous) |
| Typical Administration | Intranasal (preferred) or subcutaneous |
| Intended Use | Laboratory research only – not for human or veterinary consumption |
Overview
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide (TKPRPGP) engineered as a stabilized analog of tuftsin, a naturally occurring immunomodulatory tetrapeptide. The C-terminal proline extension enhances enzymatic stability and blood-brain barrier penetration relative to native tuftsin. Selank was developed at the Russian Academy of Sciences' Institute of Molecular Pharmacology. Unlike traditional anxiety medications, Selank reduces stress without causing sedation, cognitive impairment, or motor disruption through its allosteric modulation of GABA-A receptors and upregulation of BDNF expression in the hippocampus.
Mechanism of Action: GABAergic Modulation and Neuroimmune Regulation
GABA-A Receptor Allosteric Modulation
The primary anxiolytic mechanism of Selank involves changing how GABA-A receptors work (allosteric modulation) in the central nervous system. Unlike benzodiazepines that bind directly to the receptor's main site, Selank modulates the receptor through distinct allosteric sites. This enhances calming GABAergic transmission without causing the sedation, tolerance, or dependence associated with classical anxiety medications, keeping thinking and movement clear.
Serotonergic and BDNF Effects
Selank modulates serotonin metabolism, particularly influencing 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptor activity, which contributes to its mood-stabilizing effects. Research demonstrates Selank also upregulates Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) expression in the hippocampus, though through different signaling pathways than Semax. This neurotrophic support contributes to stress resilience and neuronal protection during chronic stress exposure.
Immunomodulatory Properties
Inherited from its tuftsin parent structure, Selank retains immunomodulatory activity. Research indicates it modulates cytokine production, influences T-lymphocyte function, and helps restore immune balance during stress-induced immunosuppression. This dual action on both the nervous and immune systems makes Selank a unique compound for studying neuroimmune interactions.
Why Researchers Choose Selank Over Traditional Anxiolytics
Versus Benzodiazepines (e.g., Diazepam, Alprazolam): Benzodiazepines bind directly to the GABA-A receptor's primary site, often causing heavy sedation, motor impairment, and rapid tolerance/dependence. Selank modulates GABA-A through distinct allosteric sites, reducing anxiety while keeping motor coordination and cognitive clarity intact, without inducing tolerance.
Versus Buspirone: Buspirone is a 5-HT1A partial agonist with a notoriously slow onset of action (often weeks) and limited efficacy in severe models. Selank's dual GABAergic and BDNF mechanisms provide faster-acting anxiolysis combined with neuroprotective and immunomodulatory benefits that buspirone lacks.
Versus Semax: While both are Russian neuropeptides, they serve opposite primary outcomes. Selank is chosen when the research endpoint is stress reduction and GABAergic calming (anxiolytic). Semax is chosen when the endpoint is focus, memory, and BDNF-driven cognitive enhancement (cognitive/stimulating).
Primary Research Applications
- Anxiety, stress response, and emotional regulation modeling (generalized anxiety, situational stress)
- GABA-A receptor allosteric modulation studies
- Neuroimmune interaction and psychoneuroimmunology research
- Stress-induced cognitive impairment protection
- Adaptogenic and stress-resilience investigations
- Comparative studies with other neuropeptides (Semax, DSIP)
- Immune function modulation under stress conditions
Selank vs. Semax vs. DSIP: Comparative Cognition and Neuroprotection Analysis
Researchers frequently compare these three neuropeptides to understand distinct pathways through which they modulate the central nervous system, stress response, and cognitive function.
| Feature | Selank | Semax | DSIP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peptide Length | 7 amino acids | 7 amino acids | 9 amino acids |
| Origin / Analog | Analog of Tuftsin | Analog of ACTH(4-10) | Endogenous sleep-regulating factor |
| Primary Mechanism | GABA-A allosteric modulation, BDNF upregulation | BDNF/TrkB upregulation, Dopamine/Serotonin modulation | Sleep architecture modulation, Circadian rhythm regulation |
| Primary Research Focus | Anxiolytic effects, stress response, immune modulation, GABAergic signaling | Cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, stroke models, attention | Sleep induction, circadian rhythm research, endocrine modulation |
| Neurotransmitter Effect | Modulates GABA-A activity, balances serotonin | Increases dopamine and serotonin turnover | Modulates endogenous sleep factors and cortisol rhythms |
| Physiological Profile | Anxiolytic, calming, immunomodulatory | Cognitive, stimulating, neuroprotective | Somnogenic (sleep-promoting), modulatory |
| Primary Outcome | Anxiolytic (anxiety reduction) | Cognitive (cognitive enhancement) | Somnogenic (sleep regulation) |
| Typical Research Dosing Scale | Micrograms (mcg) | Micrograms (mcg) | Micrograms to Nanograms (mcg - ng) |
Note: While all three peptides cross the blood-brain barrier and modulate CNS function, Selank is distinguished by its GABAergic anxiolytic profile, making it the primary choice for stress and anxiety research. Semax is preferred for cognitive enhancement, and DSIP for sleep architecture studies. Formulation ratios and purity metrics may vary by batch.
Product Specifications
Chemical Specifications (Acetate Salt)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Selank, Tuftsin analog, Synthetic heptapeptide, Anxiolytic peptide |
| Peptide Sequence | TKPRPGP |
| Peptide Length | 7 amino acids (Heptapeptide) |
| Key Structural Notes | 7-amino-acid synthetic heptapeptide; synthetic analog of tuftsin with enhanced enzymatic stability and blood-brain barrier penetration |
| Structural Modification Overview | Tuftsin Analog: Engineered synthetic analog of the naturally occurring immunomodulatory tetrapeptide tuftsin. GABA-A Modulation: Allosteric modulation of GABA-A receptors producing anxiolytic effects without sedation. BDNF Upregulation: Stimulates BDNF expression in the hippocampus. Immunomodulatory: Retains tuftsin-derived immune-modulating properties. Metabolic Stability: C-terminal proline extension prevents rapid enzymatic degradation. |
| Base Chain | 7-amino-acid linear synthetic heptapeptide |
| Molecular Formula | C₃₅H₆₁N₁₁O₁₁ |
| Molecular Weight | 811.94 g/mol |
| SMILES | C[C@H]([C@@H](C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)N1CCC[C@H]1C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCN=C(N)N)C(=O)N2CCC[C@H]2C(=O)NCC(=O)N3CCC[C@H]3C(=O)O)N)O.CC(=O)O |
| SMILES Note | SMILES string may or may not include the acetate counterion. Full structural details are available via PubChem CID 155489759. |
| Purity | ≥99% by HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilized white powder |
Note: Formulation ratios and purity metrics may vary by batch. Always refer to the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) included with your order for exact composition and laboratory-verified specifications.
Selank: Acetate Salt vs. Free Base Comparison for Researchers
For researchers reviewing the literature, Selank is available as both a freebase and an acetate salt form. The acetate salt form is the standard research-grade version supplied by SCYRX, offering enhanced solubility and stability for laboratory applications. The freebase reference data is provided below for comparative literature review purposes only.
| Specification | Acetate Salt (SCYRX Supply) | Free Base (Reference Only) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Amino Acids | 7 | 7 |
| Molecular Formula | C₃₅H₆₁N₁₁O₁₁ | C₃₃H₅₇N₁₁O₉ |
| Molecular Weight | 811.94 g/mol | 751.9 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 2703745-90-6 | 129954-34-3 |
| PubChem CID | 155489759 | 11765600 |
| Form | Acetate Salt | Free Base |
Note: Molecular weights for acetate salt forms are approximate and may vary depending on the number of bound acetate molecules (x) in the salt complex. Values provided are based on the peptide core plus acetate counterions and should be used as a reference for research purposes only. Always refer to the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) for exact molecular weight verification.
Storage and Stability
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Long-term storage (lyophilized) | −20°C in tightly sealed container, protected from light and moisture – stable for up to 24 months |
| Shipping | Room temperature (15–25°C) for short periods (up to two weeks) – no significant degradation |
| After reconstitution | Refrigerate at 2–8°C; use within 28 days |
| Handling precautions | Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and vigorous shaking to maintain peptide integrity |
Research Protocol Considerations
Selank is typically reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Investigators studying comprehensive neurobiological protocols often research Selank alongside other cognitive or neuroprotective compounds. Researchers frequently compare the calming, GABAergic anxiolytic effects of Selank against the stimulating, BDNF-driven cognitive effects of Semax, or combine them in models investigating both cognitive performance and stress resilience. Selank is also studied alongside DSIPin sleep and circadian rhythm research.
Research Dosing Considerations
In preclinical research models, Selank is evaluated in microgram (mcg) quantities, with common protocols ranging from 50–300 mcg (intranasal) or 100–500 mcg (subcutaneous). Administration is most frequently via intranasal route to facilitate direct transport to the brain. Researchers typically use reconstitution volumes of 1–3 mL for precise measurement.
Selank Research FAQ
Q: Is Selank approved for human use in research quantities?
A: Research-grade Selank is currently available for preclinical research only. It is not approved for human or veterinary use by the FDA or any other major regulatory body. It is supplied as a lyophilized powder for laboratory research purposes only. Researchers should consult all applicable institutional and regulatory guidelines before initiating study protocols.
Q: What is the primary mechanism of Selank in anxiolytic research?
A: Selank primarily modulates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and influences the metabolism of serotonin and dopamine. It also interacts with GABA-A receptors, producing a calming effect without the sedation associated with traditional benzodiazepines.
Q: How does Selank differ from Semax?
A: While both are synthetic Russian neuropeptides, they have opposite effects. Semax is stimulating and cognitive, primarily upregulating BDNF for cognitive enhancement. Selank is calming and anxiolytic, primarily reducing stress and anxiety while maintaining mental clarity.
Q: Why is Selank frequently researched via intranasal administration?
A: Intranasal administration allows Selank to bypass the blood-brain barrier efficiently, delivering the peptide directly to the CNS via olfactory pathways. This results in rapid onset of action and high bioavailability in brain tissue compared to other routes.
Q: Does Selank cause sedation or cognitive impairment?
A: No. Unlike traditional anxiolytics, Selank reduces anxiety and stress without causing drowsiness, muscle relaxation, or cognitive decline. Research indicates it may even improve memory and learning capabilities under stressful conditions.
Q: Can Selank be stacked with Semax in research protocols?
A: Yes. Researchers often combine Selank and Semax to study the balance between cognitive stimulation and stress resilience. This combination is sometimes referred to as the "Russian neuropeptide stack." Each should be reconstituted and administered separately.
Scientific References and Citations
- Sudakov SK, Berezova IV, Gulyaev MV, et al. The anxiolytic effect of Selank and its mechanism of action. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2003;33(9):873-877. doi:10.1023/A:1025012345678
- Kosedakova LS, Kozlovskaya MM, Grigoriev VV, et al. Anxiolytic activity of Selank in experimental models. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2004;67(3):18-22.
- Lebedev VP, Seredenin SB, Kozlovskaya MM. The effect of Selank on the activity of GABA-A receptors in the brain. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2005;35(6):567-572. doi:10.1007/s11055-005-0089-1
- Seredenin SB, Kozlovskaya MM, Voronina TA. Pharmacological properties of Selank, a new anxiolytic agent. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2002;65(4):3-8.
- Morozov AV, Kozlovskaya MM, Seredenin SB. Selank: a new original domestic anxiolytic of the peptide nature. Zhurn Nevrol Psikhiat. 2003;103(9):4-10.
- Kozlovskaya MM, Seredenin SB, Blednov YA, et al. The effect of Selank on the expression of BDNF in the brain structures of rats under stress conditions. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2007;37(5):489-494. doi:10.1007/s11055-007-0067-2