Selank
Chemical compound
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Selank (Russian: Cеланк) is a nootropic anxiolytic peptide based drug developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Selank is a heptapeptide with the sequence Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro (TKPRPGP). It is a synthetic analogue of the human tuftsin.
administrationNasal muscosa, IV
- In general: unscheduled
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| Other names | Selanc; L-threonyl-L-lysyl-L-prolyl-L-arginyl-L-prolylglycyl-L-Proline |
| Routes of administration | Nasal muscosa, IV |
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| Formula | C33H57N11O9 |
| Molar mass | 751.887 g·mol−1 |
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Pharmacology
Selank is a synthetic analogue of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin; as such, it mimics many of its effects. It has been shown to modulate the expression of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and affect the balance of T helper cell cytokines.[1] It has been shown to influence the concentration of monoamine neurotransmitters[2] and induce metabolism of serotonin.[3][4] Selank has also been found to rapidly elevate the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of rats.[5]
Selank, as well as a related peptide drug, Semax, have been found to inhibit enzymes involved in the degradation of enkephalins and other endogenous regulatory peptides, and this action may be involved in their effects.[6] It has also been found to affect the activity of carboxypeptidase H and phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride-inhibited carboxypeptidase in rat nervous system tissue.[7]
Selank has been found to produce antidepressant-like effects in animal models of depression and anhedonia.[8]
Clinical trials
In clinical studies, Selank has been investigated for its potential effects on cognitive function and anxiety.[1] It has also been compared with traditional anxiolytic drugs such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates.[9]
Selank is closely related to another nootropic drug, Semax, also developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia. This drug is currently available in Russian and Ukrainian pharmacies.[10]
As with all lyophilized peptides, it needs refrigeration to remain stable within sterile water solutions, such as bacteriostatic water concentrations.