Epitalon (Expanded)
Synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) developed by the Khavinson group; reported effects on pineal function and telomerase activity remain largely unreplicated.
Overview
Epitalon (also spelled Epithalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide with the sequence Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly (AEDG), developed by the Russian researcher Vladimir Khavinson and colleagues as part of a family of short bioregulator peptides derived from studies of tissue extracts, particularly thymic and pineal preparations.
The originating group has reported effects in cell culture, rodents, and small human studies, including actions on pineal function, telomere-related parameters, and aspects of aging. Independent replication outside this group remains limited.
Mechanism
In cell-culture work, the originating laboratory reported that Epitalon upregulates telomerase activity and can lengthen telomeres in certain cell types. In animal studies it is proposed to restore age-related declines in pineal melatonin secretion and circadian neuroendocrine rhythms.
These mechanisms are reported mainly by the Khavinson group and have not been widely replicated by independent laboratories.
Dosing
No internationally standardized or approved dosing exists. Reported regimens in the originating group's literature are typically short courses administered by injection; details vary between studies.
- Short-course regimens described in the originating group's publications
- Parenteral administration in most reported studies
- Regimens are not standardized internationally and are not clinically validated
Expected Effects
- Increased telomerase activity reported in some cell-culture studies from the originating laboratory
- Age-related melatonin rhythm changes reported improved in small studies
- Increased lifespan reported in some rodent studies from the same group
- Independent confirmation is lacking
Side Effects & Tolerability
The small published human studies describe the peptide as generally well tolerated. Comprehensive safety, toxicity, and long-term data are not available.
Storage
Store lyophilized Epitalon frozen, desiccated, and protected from light; follow supplier instructions for reconstitution.