Selank (Research Overview)
Selank (TKPRPGP) is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the endogenous immunopeptide tuftsin (TKPR), with an additional Pro-Gly-Pro sequence appended to improve metabolic stability. It was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences and has been studied for its effects on the central nervous system and immune function.
Mechanism of Action
Selank's mechanism is multifaceted and not fully characterized. Research suggests it modulates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor TrkB, which are central to synaptic plasticity and neuronal survival. Studies have also reported effects on enkephalin-degrading enzymes, potentially prolonging the activity of endogenous opioid peptides in the CNS.
Selank has been shown to influence serotonin metabolism and the expression of serotonin transporter (SERT) in preclinical models. Its tuftsin-derived sequence also confers interactions with the immune system, including modulation of T-cell activity and cytokine expression, consistent with tuftsin's known immunostimulatory properties.
Research Areas
Anxiolytic-like effects: The most studied behavioral effect of Selank in preclinical models is a reduction in anxiety-like behavior in rodent assays (elevated plus maze, open field, light-dark box). These effects have been observed without the sedation or motor impairment associated with benzodiazepines, making Selank a subject of interest for understanding non-GABAergic anxiolytic mechanisms.
Cognitive and memory research: Studies have examined Selank's effects on learning and memory consolidation in animal models, with some reports of improved performance in spatial memory tasks. BDNF upregulation is hypothesized as a contributing mechanism.
Immune modulation: As a tuftsin analog, Selank has been studied for effects on innate and adaptive immune function, including macrophage activation, natural killer cell activity, and cytokine balance. Research has explored its potential in models of immune dysregulation and stress-induced immunosuppression.
Stress response: Preclinical data suggest Selank may attenuate the neuroendocrine stress response, including modulation of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) signaling and HPA axis reactivity.
Specification summary
Selank 10mg
Stated purity ≥99%. For laboratory research use only.
Related materials
References
- Zozulya AA, Kost NV, Yu Sokolov O, Gabaeva MV, Grivennikov IA, Andreeva LN, et al. The inhibitory effect of Selank on enkephalin-degrading enzymes as a possible mechanism of its anxiolytic activity. Bull Exp Biol Med. 2001;131(4):315-7. PMID 11550013 · DOI
- Kolik LG, Nadorova AV, Antipova TA, Kruglov SV, Kudrin VS, Durnev AD. Selank, Peptide Analogue of Tuftsin, Protects Against Ethanol-Induced Memory Impairment by Regulating of BDNF Content in the Hippocampus and Prefrontal Cortex in Rats. Bull Exp Biol Med. 2019;167(5):641-644. PMID 31625062 · DOI
- Kolomin T, Morozova M, Volkova A, Shadrina M, Andreeva L, Slominsky P, et al. The temporary dynamics of inflammation-related genes expression under tuftsin analog Selank action. Mol Immunol. 2014;58(1):50-5. PMID 24291245 · DOI
- Kolomin T, Shadrina M, Andreeva L, Slominsky P, Limborska S, Myasoedov N. Expression of inflammation-related genes in mouse spleen under tuftsin analog Selank. Regul Pept. 2011;170(1-3):18-23. PMID 21609736 · DOI
- Siebert A, Gensicka-Kowalewska M, Cholewinski G, Dzierzbicka K. Tuftsin - Properties and Analogs. Curr Med Chem. 2017;24(34):3711-3727. PMID 28745220 · DOI
Cited literature is provided for scientific context only and does not describe or endorse any use of these products.
For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.