CognitiveResearch Phase

Orexin B

Overview

Orexin B is a 28-amino acid neuropeptide closely related to orexin A, also synthesized in hypothalamic neurons and involved in promoting wakefulness and regulating feeding behavior. It exhibits preferential binding to orexin receptor 2 (OX2R) compared to OX1R. Orexin B contributes to the maintenance of arousal and the integration of metabolic and circadian signals.

Key Research Findings

Animal studies have shown that orexin B administration promotes wakefulness and reduces sleep latency, with effects generally considered less potent than orexin A in arousal models. Published data in sleep research and endocrinology journals support its role in vigilance state control. As with orexin A, poor pharmacokinetic properties and blood-brain barrier limitations have precluded clinical development of the native peptide.

Route of Administration

Intracerebroventricular

Regulatory Status

Research Phase

Interested in Orexin B?

Find a verified provider experienced with Orexin B protocols in your area. All providers are credentialed and use compliant sourcing.

Find a Orexin B Provider

Related Peptides

Semax

FDA Approved

A synthetic heptapeptide analog of the ACTH(4-7) fragment (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) with nootropic and neuroprotective properties. Semax modulates BDNF and NGF expression, enhances monoaminergic neurotransmission, and provides neuroprotection through anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. It crosses the blood-brain barrier via intranasal administration.

Selank

Investigational

A synthetic analog of the endogenous tetrapeptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) with an added Pro-Gly-Pro sequence for stability. Selank exhibits anxiolytic activity comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation, dependence, or withdrawal effects. It modulates the expression of BDNF, serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, and influences IL-6 and GABA receptor expression.

Cerebrolysin

Investigational

A porcine brain-derived peptide preparation consisting of low-molecular-weight neuropeptides and free amino acids that mimic the action of endogenous neurotrophic factors. Cerebrolysin exhibits neurotrophic activity similar to BDNF, GDNF, and CNTF, promoting neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis. It modulates GSK-3beta, CDK5, and calcineurin-NFAT signaling cascades involved in neurodegeneration.

P21 (Peptide)

Research Phase

A small synthetic peptide derived from the active region of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) designed to promote neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. P21 is a tetrapeptide that crosses the blood-brain barrier and enhances dentate gyrus neurogenesis by increasing BDNF expression. Unlike full-length CNTF, P21 does not activate the JAK-STAT pathway or produce the anorectic and immunogenic effects of the parent protein.