Cognitive / Sleep
Selank
C₃₃H₅₇N₁₁O₉
Key Research Findings
- Demonstrates anxiolytic potency comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation or dependence.
- Shown to increase BDNF expression, supporting roles in memory and learning.
- Modulates IL-6 and other cytokines, bridging immune and neurological research.
- Licensed in Russia as an anxiolytic drug under the name Selank.
Overview
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of the endogenous tetrapeptide tuftsin, developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia. It is studied primarily for its anxiolytic and nootropic properties, and is notable for lacking the sedative and dependence-forming effects of conventional anxiolytics.
Mechanism of Action
Selank is thought to modulate the GABAergic system and influences expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). It also exhibits immunomodulatory effects via its parent peptide tuftsin, and appears to stabilise enkephalin degradation, prolonging the action of endogenous opioid peptides involved in mood regulation.
Research Effects
Anxiolytic Activity
Extensive ResearchWell-established reduction of anxiety-like behaviour in rodent models; supported by Russian clinical studies in generalised anxiety disorder.
Cognitive Enhancement
Moderate ResearchResearch shows improved memory acquisition and retrieval, thought to be mediated by BDNF upregulation.
Immunomodulation
Moderate ResearchAs a tuftsin analogue, Selank modulates cytokine expression and enhances macrophage activity in immune research models.
Antidepressant
Preliminary ResearchEarly studies suggest mood-stabilising effects, possibly via enkephalin system modulation.
Research Purposes Only — All information on this page is provided for scientific research purposes only. This product is not intended for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any disease.
Quick Facts
Research Status Key
Related Peptides
Cognitive / Sleep
Semax
Semax is a heptapeptide analogue of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4–10) developed in Russia. Unlike its parent hormone, Semax has been engineered to retain cognitive and neuroprotective effects while completely eliminating steroidogenic activity, making it a focused nootropic research compound.
Learn More →
Cognitive / Sleep
DSIP
DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide) is an endogenous neuropeptide first isolated from rabbit thalamic venous blood during electrically induced slow-wave sleep. It is studied for its role in sleep regulation, stress modulation, and as a potential research tool for circadian rhythm investigations.
Learn More →