SELANK overview:
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Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide with anxiolytic and nootropic properties. It was developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences as a synthetic analog of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin. Selank is known for its ability to reduce anxiety, enhance cognitive function, and modulate immune system activity. It has been studied primarily for its potential to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depression, and other stress-related conditions without the sedative or dependence-forming effects associated with benzodiazepines.
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Molecular Structure and Sequence:
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Selank is a heptapeptide with the amino acid sequence:
Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro
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Molecular Formula: C33H57N11O9
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Molecular Weight: 751.9 g/mol
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Mechanism of Action:
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Selank's mechanism of action is complex and involves several key pathways related to neurotransmitter regulation, immune modulation, and brain plasticity:
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1. Regulation of Neurotransmitters:
Selank influences the activity of the monoaminergic systems (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) by enhancing the expression and balance of these neurotransmitters in the brain.
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It also increases the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is crucial for synaptic plasticity and cognitive function.
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2. GABAergic Modulation:
Selank increases the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) by upregulating GABA receptor sensitivity, contributing to its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects.
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Unlike benzodiazepines, which act directly on GABA-A receptors and cause sedation and dependency, Selank enhances natural GABAergic tone without causing sedation or withdrawal symptoms.
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3. Immune Modulation:
Selank has immunomodulatory effects by regulating the balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.
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It enhances the expression of tuftsin-like peptides, which are involved in immune function and the body’s response to stress and inflammation.
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4. Modulation of Enkephalins:
Selank inhibits the activity of enzymes that degrade enkephalins, which are endogenous opioid peptides involved in pain regulation and stress response.
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By preserving enkephalins, Selank helps to promote a calming and mood-stabilizing effect.
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5. Stabilization of the Autonomic Nervous System:
Selank has been shown to normalize the function of the autonomic nervous system, reducing symptoms of stress, including heart rate variability and other physiological markers of anxiety.
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Pharmacokinetics:
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Absorption: Selank is typically administered intranasally or subcutaneously, where it rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier due to its small peptide structure.
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Distribution: Once in the central nervous system, Selank binds to receptors in brain regions associated with emotion, memory, and stress response.
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Metabolism: Selank is metabolized into smaller peptide fragments that are eventually excreted through the renal pathway.
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Half-life: Selank has a relatively short half-life of approximately 15–30 minutes, but its effects can persist for several hours due to its impact on neurotransmitter systems and gene expression.
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Potential Benefits (Based on Preclinical and Clinical Research):
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Reduces anxiety and stress without causing sedation or addiction.
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Enhances cognitive function, including memory, attention, and learning capacity.
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Modulates mood and emotional stability.
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Improves immune function and reduces inflammation.
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Increases resistance to mental and physical stress.
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Side Effects and Safety:
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Selank has shown a favorable safety profile in both animal and human studies. Reported side effects are mild and may include:
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Mild nasal irritation (if administered intranasally)
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Temporary headache
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Fatigue
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No significant withdrawal symptoms or dependency issues have been found.
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FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES ONLY
Selank is not approved for human consumption or therapeutic use by the FDA or other regulatory agencies. It is intended for research purposes only. Misuse of this compound may pose health risks. This product should only be handled by qualified professionals in a controlled research setting.