Peptide Database
265 therapeutic peptides with research summaries, clinical findings, and regulatory status.
AOD-9604
A modified 16-amino acid fragment (amino acids 176-191) of the C-terminus of human growth hormone with an added tyrosine at the N-terminus. AOD-9604 retains the lipolytic activity of hGH without its growth-promoting or diabetogenic effects. It stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis through a mechanism distinct from the GH receptor, acting on beta-3 adrenergic receptors in adipose tissue.
GHRP-2
A synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that acts on the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in the hypothalamus and pituitary to stimulate growth hormone release. GHRP-2 is one of the most potent GH-releasing peptides, producing robust GH pulses while also increasing ACTH, cortisol, and prolactin to a modest degree. It amplifies the natural GH axis and works synergistically with GHRH analogs.
GHRP-6
A synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the anterior pituitary via GHS-R1a receptor activation. GHRP-6 produces significant GH release and also potently stimulates appetite through ghrelin-mimetic activity in hypothalamic feeding centers. It increases gastric motility and has cytoprotective effects on gastric and cardiac tissue through NO-mediated pathways.
Hexarelin
A synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue with the highest GH-releasing potency among GHRPs. Hexarelin binds both GHS-R1a and CD36 (scavenger receptor), giving it unique cardiovascular properties independent of GH release. It exhibits cardioprotective effects through reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation and improved cardiac contractility via direct myocardial receptor activation.
Atosiban
A competitive oxytocin/vasopressin V1a receptor antagonist used as a tocolytic agent to delay preterm labor. Atosiban blocks oxytocin-mediated myometrial contractions without the cardiovascular side effects associated with beta-adrenergic tocolytics. The peptide is administered as an initial bolus followed by a step-down infusion protocol over up to 48 hours.
Selank
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
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.
Thymalin
A peptide bioregulator originally extracted from bovine thymus gland, consisting of a mixture of polypeptides that modulate immune function. Thymalin restores T-cell mediated immunity by promoting T-lymphocyte maturation and differentiation in the thymus. It also normalizes the ratio of T-helper to T-suppressor cells and enhances phagocytic activity of neutrophils and macrophages.
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
A 28-amino acid neuropeptide widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems and immune cells. VIP acts through VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors to produce potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-12) and promoting regulatory T-cell differentiation. It also functions as a vasodilator, bronchodilator, and neuromodulator.
Thymosin Alpha 1 (Zadaxin)
A 28-amino acid peptide originally isolated from thymic tissue (thymosin fraction 5) that serves as a potent immunomodulator. Thymosin alpha 1 enhances T-cell maturation, dendritic cell function, and antibody responses by activating Toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR9) on innate immune cells. It promotes Th1 immune responses and augments vaccine efficacy while modulating inflammatory cytokine production.
Thymopentin (TP-5)
A synthetic pentapeptide (Arg-Lys-Asp-Val-Tyr) corresponding to residues 32-36 of thymopoietin, a thymic hormone involved in T-cell differentiation. Thymopentin stimulates early T-cell precursor differentiation and modulates mature T-cell function by enhancing IL-2 production and expression of T-cell surface markers. It partially restores immune function in immunocompromised states without the risks of whole thymic extracts.
Taspoglutide
Taspoglutide is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist derived from human GLP-1 with amino acid substitutions designed to resist dipeptidyl peptidase-4 degradation and extend duration of action. The peptide activates pancreatic GLP-1 receptors to promote glucose-dependent insulin secretion, inhibit glucagon release, and slow gastric emptying. Its structural modifications were intended to support once-weekly administration for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Enlicitide
Enlicitide is an investigational peptide agonist designed to modulate metabolic pathways involved in energy balance and glucose homeostasis. Limited publicly available structural and mechanistic data suggest it may target incretin or related neuroendocrine pathways, though detailed receptor pharmacology has not been fully disclosed in the peer-reviewed literature. The compound is being explored for potential applications in obesity and metabolic disorders.
Relamorelin
Relamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide ghrelin receptor agonist designed to stimulate growth hormone secretion and promote gastric motility. It binds selectively to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHS-R1a), mimicking the action of endogenous ghrelin. The peptide was developed primarily for the treatment of diabetic gastroparesis and other disorders of gastric emptying, with potential applications in cachexia and functional dyspepsia.
Tabimorelin
Tabimorelin is an orally active synthetic ghrelin mimetic and selective GHS-R1a agonist developed to stimulate growth hormone release. Unlike peptide analogues, tabimorelin was designed as a small molecule with improved oral bioavailability and stability. The therapeutic rationale centered on treating frailty, functional decline in the elderly, and conditions associated with growth hormone deficiency.
GHRH (Sermorelin 1-44)
Sermorelin is a synthetic 44-amino acid peptide corresponding to the biologically active portion of human growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). It stimulates endogenous growth hormone secretion from the anterior pituitary by binding to GHRH receptors. Originally approved for diagnostic testing of growth hormone secretion, sermorelin was subsequently marketed for treatment of growth hormone deficiency in children before being voluntarily withdrawn.
GHK (Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine)
GHK is a naturally occurring tripeptide with high affinity for copper ions, forming the GHK-Cu complex. It is present in human plasma, saliva, and urine at concentrations that decline with age. The peptide modulates extracellular matrix remodeling, metalloproteinase activity, and growth factor signaling, contributing to wound healing and tissue repair processes.
AHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-3)
AHK-Cu is a synthetic copper-binding tripeptide consisting of alanine-histidine-lysine complexed with copper ions. It shares structural and functional similarities with GHK-Cu but contains alanine in place of glycine at the N-terminus. The peptide is proposed to promote collagen production, angiogenesis, and antioxidant defenses in skin and other tissues.
Sinapultide (KL4 Surfactant)
Sinapultide is a synthetic 21-amino acid peptide that mimics the structure and function of surfactant protein B, a critical component of pulmonary surfactant. When combined with phospholipids, sinapultide forms a surface-active complex that reduces alveolar surface tension, improving gas exchange and lung compliance. It has been investigated primarily for treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome and neonatal respiratory distress.
Chrysalin (TP508)
Chrysalin, also known as TP508, is a 23-amino acid synthetic peptide derived from the receptor-binding domain of human thrombin. It is designed to activate non-proteolytic thrombin receptors on endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and osteoblasts, thereby promoting angiogenesis, granulation tissue formation, and bone repair. The peptide retains thrombin's tissue repair signaling properties without procoagulant activity.
Dalargin
Dalargin is a synthetic hexapeptide analog of leucine-enkephalin with enhanced metabolic stability due to D-amino acid substitutions. It acts as a selective delta opioid receptor agonist with peripheral and central effects, including modulation of stress responses, anti-inflammatory activity, and cytoprotection in gastrointestinal and vascular tissues. Unlike classical opioids, dalargin exhibits reduced central analgesic potency but pronounced tissue-protective properties.
NAP (Davunetide)
NAP, also known as davunetide, is an eight-amino acid peptide derived from activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP). It is thought to stabilize microtubules by interacting with tubulin and promoting cytoskeletal integrity, thereby protecting neurons from oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, and tauopathies. Intranasal delivery was pursued to achieve direct central nervous system access while minimizing systemic exposure.
Nemifitide
Nemifitide is a synthetic pentapeptide analog of the endogenous neuropeptide alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It acts on melanocortin receptors, particularly MC4, to modulate inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and neuronal excitability. The peptide has been investigated for neuroprotection in settings of acute brain injury and neurodegenerative disease.
Pinealon
Pinealon is a synthetic tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg) developed as part of the Khavinson peptide bioregulator series, designed to mimic endogenous short peptides that regulate gene expression in neural tissues. It is hypothesized to interact with chromatin and influence transcription of genes involved in neuronal survival and plasticity. Pinealon has been studied primarily in the context of age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative models.
N-acetyl Semax Amidate
N-acetyl Semax Amidate is a modified heptapeptide derivative of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragments, engineered with N-terminal acetylation and C-terminal amidation to enhance metabolic stability and blood-brain barrier penetration. It is believed to modulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, enhance dopaminergic and serotonergic signaling, and improve cognitive performance and stress resilience. This analog exhibits prolonged activity compared to the parent Semax peptide.
N-acetyl Selank Amidate
N-acetyl Selank Amidate is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin, modified with acetylation and amidation to increase half-life and central nervous system activity. It is reported to exert anxiolytic and nootropic effects through modulation of enkephalin metabolism and influencing monoamine neurotransmitter systems without sedation or dependency. The peptide has been explored for anxiety, cognitive enhancement, and stress adaptation.
ACTH (4-10) Analogs
ACTH (4-10) analogs are synthetic peptides derived from the 4 to 10 amino acid sequence of adrenocorticotropic hormone, engineered to preserve neurotrophic and cognitive-enhancing properties while eliminating steroidogenic activity. These fragments are thought to influence attention, memory consolidation, and synaptic plasticity through melanocortin receptor interactions and modulation of neurotransmitter systems. They represent a class of nootropic peptides explored since the 1970s.
Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)
Argireline is a synthetic six amino acid peptide (Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2) designed to attenuate neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. It functions as a competitive inhibitor of the SNARE complex, reducing catecholamine release and potentially diminishing muscle contraction intensity in facial expression muscles. This mechanism provides a topical alternative rationale to botulinum toxin for addressing expression lines, though with markedly lower potency.
Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4)
Matrixyl is a lipopeptide composed of a pentapeptide sequence (Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser) attached to a palmitic acid moiety to enhance dermal penetration. It is proposed to stimulate fibroblast activity and upregulate synthesis of extracellular matrix components including collagen types I and III, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid. The peptide serves as a matrikine fragment mimetic, signaling tissue remodeling pathways in aged or photodamaged skin.
Matrixyl 3000
Matrixyl 3000 is a proprietary combination of two lipopeptides: palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR). The formulation is designed to synergistically promote collagen and fibronectin synthesis while reducing interleukin-6 mediated inflammation in dermal fibroblasts. Both peptides carry palmitic acid for enhanced lipid solubility and stratum corneum permeation.
Matrixyl Synthe'6 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38)
Palmitoyl tripeptide-38 is a synthetic lipopeptide designed to stimulate synthesis of six major constituents of the dermal matrix: collagen I, III, and IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin 5. It is proposed to activate transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling in fibroblasts, thereby promoting coordinated extracellular matrix assembly. The palmitic acid conjugate enhances dermal bioavailability when applied topically.
SYN-AKE (Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate)
SYN-AKE is a synthetic dipeptide derivative inspired by the venom peptide waglerin-1 from the Temple viper. It acts as a competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on the postsynaptic muscle membrane, thereby reducing muscle contraction and potentially smoothing expression lines. The compound is marketed as a topical alternative to botulinum toxin, though with substantially lower receptor affinity and clinical effect.
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3)
SNAP-8 is an elongated derivative of Argireline, consisting of eight amino acids (Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2) designed to further inhibit SNARE complex formation and catecholamine-mediated neurotransmitter release. By extending the peptide sequence, the molecule is hypothesized to achieve enhanced binding and greater reduction in muscle contraction intensity in facial expression zones. Like its hexapeptide predecessor, it is positioned as a non-invasive topical anti-wrinkle agent.
Leuphasyl (Pentapeptide-18)
Leuphasyl is a synthetic pentapeptide (Tyr-D-Ala-Gly-Phe-Leu) that mimics the N-terminal sequence of enkephalin and modulates acetylcholine receptor activity at the neuromuscular junction. It is proposed to stabilize the receptor in an inactive conformation, reducing the frequency of muscle fiber contraction without blocking neurotransmission. This mechanism is intended to yield a topical wrinkle-smoothing effect with cosmetic applications.
Vialox (Pentapeptide-3)
Vialox is a synthetic pentapeptide designed to modulate neuromuscular signaling by interfering with acetylcholine receptor activation. The exact sequence is proprietary, but the peptide is marketed as a topical agent to reduce muscle contraction intensity in areas prone to dynamic wrinkles. It is positioned alongside other neuromodulating peptides as a non-invasive alternative to botulinum toxin.
Rigin (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7)
Rigin is a lipopeptide composed of the tetrapeptide sequence Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg conjugated to palmitic acid. It is designed to reduce production of interleukin-6 and other pro-inflammatory cytokines in dermal fibroblasts, thereby mitigating chronic low-grade inflammation associated with skin aging. By modulating the inflammatory microenvironment, the peptide is proposed to support matrix integrity and reduce glycation-induced damage.
Thymogen (Glutamyl-Tryptophan)
Thymogen is a dipeptide consisting of glutamic acid and tryptophan, originally isolated from thymic extracts and proposed to function as an immunomodulatory agent. It is thought to influence T-cell differentiation and cytokine production, thereby enhancing cellular immunity in states of immune suppression or aging-related immunosenescence. The peptide has been investigated primarily in Eastern European and Russian research settings for adjunctive therapy in infections and immune deficiencies.
Thymostimulin (TP-1)
Thymostimulin is a polypeptide extract derived from bovine thymus tissue containing multiple biologically active thymic peptides. It acts on T-lymphocyte maturation and differentiation by mimicking thymic hormone activity. The therapeutic rationale centers on restoring or augmenting immune function in states of T-cell deficiency or immunosuppression.
Tuftsin
Tuftsin is a naturally occurring tetrapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) cleaved from the Fc portion of the heavy chain of immunoglobulin G. It binds to specific receptors on phagocytes, enhancing chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and microbicidal activity. The therapeutic rationale is to augment innate immune responses in immunocompromised states or chronic infections.
Imuthiol (Diethyldithiocarbamate)
Imuthiol is the sodium salt of diethyldithiocarbamate, a small molecule rather than a peptide, historically explored for immune modulation and antiviral properties. It is thought to alter cytokine profiles and scavenge reactive oxygen species. Therapeutic interest has focused on HIV infection and other states of immune dysregulation.
Serelaxin (Relaxin-2)
Serelaxin is a recombinant form of human relaxin-2, a naturally occurring peptide hormone composed of two chains linked by disulfide bonds. It acts via the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1) to promote vasodilation, inhibit fibrosis, and modulate hemodynamics. The therapeutic rationale targets acute heart failure by improving renal perfusion and reducing vascular resistance.
Urocortin 1
Urocortin 1 is a 40-amino acid peptide belonging to the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family. It binds to both CRF receptor 1 and CRF receptor 2 with high affinity, mediating diverse cardiovascular effects including vasodilation, positive inotropy, and cardioprotection. The peptide has demonstrated beneficial hemodynamic properties and anti-inflammatory actions in preclinical models of heart failure and ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Adrenomedullin
Adrenomedullin is a 52-amino acid peptide hormone produced by vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells with potent vasodilatory and natriuretic properties. It signals through calcitonin receptor-like receptor complexed with receptor activity-modifying proteins, increasing cyclic AMP to promote vasodilation, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory effects. Adrenomedullin also modulates vascular permeability and exhibits cardioprotective and renoprotective actions.
Angiotensin (1-7)
Angiotensin (1-7) is a seven-amino acid peptide component of the renin-angiotensin system formed through cleavage of angiotensin II by ACE2 or from angiotensin I by endopeptidases. It binds to the Mas receptor to produce vasodilation, anti-proliferative, anti-fibrotic, and anti-inflammatory effects that generally oppose the actions of angiotensin II. This counter-regulatory arm of the renin-angiotensin system represents a therapeutic target in hypertension, heart failure, and renal disease.
Vapreotide
Vapreotide is a synthetic octapeptide analog of somatostatin with enhanced selectivity for somatostatin receptor subtypes 2 and 5. It exerts antisecretory and antiproliferative effects by binding to these receptors on neuroendocrine tumor cells and inhibiting hormone release. The therapeutic rationale centers on control of symptoms associated with vasoactive intestinal peptide secreting tumors and other neuroendocrine malignancies. Its longer half-life compared to native somatostatin allows for sustained receptor occupancy.
Conantokin-G
Conantokin-G is a 17-amino acid peptide originally isolated from the venom of the cone snail Conus geographus. It acts as a selective antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors containing the NR2B subunit, which are implicated in chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and central sensitization. The peptide contains gamma-carboxyglutamic acid residues that are critical for its activity and metal ion binding. Conantokin-G represents a novel class of non-opioid analgesics targeting glutamatergic neurotransmission.
Iseganan (IB-367)
Iseganan is a 17-amino acid synthetic analog of protegrin, a naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide found in porcine leukocytes. It disrupts microbial cell membranes via a beta-sheet structure stabilized by disulfide bonds, conferring broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Iseganan was developed primarily as an oral rinse to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia and oral mucositis in immunocompromised patients. Its rapid microbicidal action and low systemic absorption profile supported its formulation for topical oral use.
Lactoferricin
Lactoferricin is a cationic antimicrobial peptide derived from pepsin-mediated cleavage of lactoferrin, an iron-binding glycoprotein found in milk and mucosal secretions. The most studied variant, bovine lactoferricin B, is a 25-amino acid peptide that disrupts microbial membranes and chelates iron, contributing to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Lactoferricin exhibits antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic properties, along with immunomodulatory effects. Its natural origin and multifunctional activity have generated interest in food preservation, oral health, and topical antimicrobial applications.
Nisin
Nisin is a 34-amino acid polycyclic antibacterial peptide (lantibiotic) produced by Lactococcus lactis. It disrupts bacterial cell wall synthesis and forms pores in cell membranes by binding to lipid II, a precursor essential for peptidoglycan assembly. Its activity is primarily directed against Gram-positive bacteria, making it valuable in food preservation applications. The peptide contains unusual amino acids including lanthionine and beta-methyllanthionine, which confer structural stability and antimicrobial potency.
Gramicidin S
Gramicidin S is a cyclic decapeptide antibiotic isolated from Bacillus brevis, consisting of two identical pentapeptide sequences joined in a ring structure. The peptide exerts antimicrobial activity by disrupting bacterial cell membrane integrity through interaction with phospholipid bilayers, leading to leakage of cellular contents. Its amphipathic beta-sheet conformation enables selective insertion into bacterial membranes. The compound demonstrates broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms.
Thymulin (Zn-FTS)
Thymulin is a nonapeptide hormone secreted by thymic epithelial cells that requires zinc for biological activity and is also referred to as facteur thymique serique or FTS. The peptide modulates T-cell differentiation and immune function, with circulating levels declining with age in parallel with thymic involution. The therapeutic hypothesis proposes that thymulin supplementation may restore immune competence in aging individuals and counteract immunosenescence. Synthetic zinc-thymulin complexes have been investigated as potential immunorestorative agents in experimental settings.
Gerontin (Pineal Gland Extract)
Gerontin refers to peptide fractions derived from pineal gland extracts studied primarily in Russian gerontology research. These preparations are hypothesized to contain bioactive peptides that regulate circadian rhythms, antioxidant defenses, and neuroendocrine aging processes. The pineal gland's role in melatonin synthesis and circadian coordination provides a biological rationale for investigating pineal-derived factors in aging. Gerontin formulations are not standardized, and active components have not been fully characterized by modern analytical methods.
Vilon (Lys-Glu)
Vilon is a synthetic dipeptide consisting of lysine and glutamic acid (Lys-Glu) developed as part of the Khavinson bioregulator peptide research program. The peptide is proposed to interact with DNA regulatory regions to modulate gene expression related to immune function and cellular repair. Vilon has been studied primarily in Russian research for immunomodulation and potential geroprotective properties. The mechanism is postulated to involve epigenetic regulation, though detailed molecular characterization remains incomplete.
Bioregulator Peptides (Khavinson)
Bioregulator peptides are a class of short synthetic peptides, typically 2 to 4 amino acids in length, developed by Russian researcher Vladimir Khavinson based on sequences derived from organ-specific tissues. These peptides are theorized to exert tissue-specific regulatory effects by interacting with chromatin to modulate gene expression and restore age-related functional declines. Examples include thymus-derived peptides (Thymalin), pineal peptides (Epithalamin), and vascular peptides. The underlying hypothesis is that peptide bioregulators can reverse or slow aging by re-establishing youthful patterns of protein synthesis in target organs.
ACE-031 (Ramatercept)
ACE-031 is a recombinant fusion protein combining the extracellular domain of the activin receptor type IIB with a human IgG1 Fc domain. This soluble receptor acts as a decoy to bind and neutralize myostatin, activin, and other negative regulators of muscle growth. By inhibiting these TGF-beta superfamily ligands, ACE-031 was designed to promote muscle hypertrophy in conditions characterized by muscle wasting.
Thrombopoietin (TPO)
Thrombopoietin is a 332-amino acid endogenous glycoprotein hormone and the primary physiologic regulator of megakaryopoiesis and platelet production. It binds to the c-Mpl receptor on megakaryocyte progenitors and mature megakaryocytes, stimulating their proliferation, differentiation, and platelet release. Recombinant TPO and pegylated recombinant megakaryocyte growth and development factor (PEG-rHuMGDF) were developed but abandoned after clinical trials revealed antibody-mediated thrombocytopenia.