CLASSIFICATION
Anxiolytic Peptide
ACNE
No
WATER RETENTION
No
HBR
No
HEPATOTOXICITY
No
AROMATIZATION
No
MANUFACTURER
Beligas
WAREHOUSE
International Warehouse 3
SUBSTANCE
Selank
In the dynamic realm of biotechnology, innovative biologically-active compounds are gaining attention, particularly those known as "cognitive enhancers" or "nootropics." One standout in this category is Selank, previously designated as "TP-7." This synthetic peptide, which is a type of artificially created protein, has garnered interest for its potential benefits.
Renowned for its anti-anxiety properties, Selank is said to promote learning and elevate energy levels without the common side effects or addiction risks associated with traditional medications. Developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics (Russian Academy of Sciences) in collaboration with the V.V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Selank was created by integrating a peptide sequence called tuftsin with another sequence to enhance its stability. Tuftsin naturally occurs as part of the antibody IgG.
Research indicates that both tuftsin and Selank can lower anxiety and boost serotonin levels in animal models, with Selank demonstrating slightly superior effectiveness. In Russia, Selank is approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and is used as a nootropic, although it is not FDA-approved in the U.S. It is available in various countries, often marketed as a "nutritional supplement."
Mechanism of Action of SelankWhile the exact mechanisms of Selank remain under investigation, it is believed to stabilize enkephalins in the bloodstream. Enkephalins are natural peptides that help regulate stress responses. However, some studies in mice have failed to confirm enkephalin stabilization or significant anti-anxiety effects following Selank administration.
Cellular studies suggest Selank may interact with GABA receptors, which are typically associated with sedative effects. One study on mice revealed that Selank increased activity in GABA-reliant inhibitory neurons, leading to reduced overall brain activity. Additionally, some researchers have noted an increase in BDNF, a key neurotrophic factor related to learning and memory, hinting at potential cognitive benefits. Selank may also influence neurotransmitter levels, including norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, which are linked to motivation and focus.
In a mouse study, Selank was shown to raise norepinephrine levels while also diminishing dopamine and serotonin levels. Conversely, another study indicated it could elevate both norepinephrine and dopamine without altering serotonin levels, leaving the full spectrum of Selank's effects somewhat unclear.
Potentially Effective For: AnxietyA preliminary clinical trial involving 62 subjects revealed that participants taking Selank experienced reduced anxiety symptoms, particularly those with pre-existing anxiety disorders. Another trial with 60 patients facing anxiety and phobias noted lasting benefits for up to a week post-treatment. Furthermore, a study involving 70 anxiety patients found that Selank enhanced the effects of phenazepam (an anti-anxiety medication banned in some U.S. states) while minimizing side effects like drowsiness and memory impairment. Animal studies also demonstrated Selank's effectiveness in alleviating anxiety in mice, especially in those with higher baseline anxiety levels, with notable results from four weeks of treatment in rats.
While the evidence for Selank's efficacy in humans is limited, it may offer anxiety relief. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits of Selank, but always adhere to their professional guidance.
Memory
Research indicates that Selank might stabilize memory traces in rats over a month-long period, though the methods of measurement remain unclear. Another study suggested Selank could help preserve memory in monkeys, yet human studies are limited, and the potential effects on healthy individuals require further exploration.
Brain Damage Recovery
In one study, Selank was administered to rats with toxin-induced brain damage, reportedly restoring their normal brain activity levels.
Depression
Selank has shown promise in reducing depression symptoms in mice, particularly with increased effectiveness at lower doses.
Antioxidant Activity in the Liver
Preliminary animal research indicated that Selank injections raised antioxidant levels in the livers of stressed mice.
Blood Flow
In a study with sedated cats, Selank reduced blood pressure by approximately 30% for up to three minutes and increased brain blood flow by around 24% for up to ten minutes. These findings suggest potential short-term cardiovascular effects, though their clinical significance remains uncertain, and further confirmation in healthy humans is needed.
Alcohol Withdrawal
Anxiety is a common challenge during alcohol withdrawal. In a study, Selank was shown to alleviate anxiety levels in rats after 48 hours of alcohol withdrawal following 24 weeks of exposure to a 10% ethanol solution.
Weight Management and Cholesterol Reduction
In an animal study, Selank treatment resulted in 35% less weight gain in rats on a high-fat diet, along with a significant reduction in total cholesterol levels (over 58%) and a decrease in blood glucose levels by 23.5%.
Cancer
In a study involving breast cancer-infected mice, those treated with daily Selank doses exhibited slower tumor growth and longer survival compared to untreated mice. It?s crucial to note that these preliminary results do not suggest Selank as a viable cancer treatment, and extensive research is necessary to validate these findings. Standard cancer therapies should never be replaced by Selank or any supplement.
Inflammation in the Spleen
After Selank treatment, mice demonstrated elevated levels of inflammatory response genes in their spleens, suggesting potential protective effects against inflammation-related damage.
Ulcers
Selank has been reported to decrease stomach ulcer size in animal models, with some researchers theorizing it enhances lymph flow to the stomach, crucial for immune function. However, further human research is essential to confirm this effect and understand its mechanisms.
Immune Function
Selank has been shown to increase IL-6 production in blood cells from depressed patients, a cytokine involved in inflammation and immune responses. Additionally, in a cell-based study, Selank promoted the release of interferons, which are known for their antiviral properties. While it is suggested that Selank may offer some protection against certain viral infections, one animal study with virus-infected mice did not reveal any antiviral benefits, raising questions about this potential application.

