MECHANISM OF ACTION
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from tuftsin, with Pro-Gly-Pro added to extend half-life. Anxiolytic mechanism: GABA-A receptor modulation (non-benzodiazepine site), enhanced 5-HT turnover in frontal cortex and hippocampus, and BDNF upregulation. Rodent models show no sedation, muscle relaxation, or amnesia at standard doses - distinguishing it from classical anxiolytics.
RESEARCH APPLICATIONS
- Anxiolytic models without sedation or dependency
- Serotonin metabolism research
- GABA pathway modulation (non-BZD site)
- Immunomodulation - NK cell activity
- Cognitive performance under stress models
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
GABAergic Anxiolysis Without Sedation
2010Elevated plus-maze and open field tests show anxiolytic effects comparable to diazepam without sedation, motor impairment, or cognitive deficits.
Ref: Semenova et al., Psychopharmacology
5-HT Turnover Enhancement
2007Intranasal Selank increased 5-HIAA/5-HT ratio in frontal cortex and striatum - enhanced serotonergic neurotransmission.
Ref: Filatova et al., Bulletin Exp Biol Med
RESEARCH PROTOCOL NOTES
Chemical Identity
Sequence
Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro
Storage & Stability
Lyophilised: -20°C. Solution: 2–8°C, 30 days. Similar to Semax.
Regulatory Status
Approved in Russia (0.15% nasal spray). No Western regulatory approval. Research compound. Not WADA prohibited.