The benefits of Selank peptide

Introduction

Selank (Nα-Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro-Diacetate Salt) was designed and produced at the Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, in cooperation with the V.V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences. Selank is a synthetic analogue of the endogenous tuftsin molecule (the short Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg fragment of the human immunoglobulin G heavy chain), which was elongated at the C terminus via the addition of three natural L-amino acids (Pro-Gly-Pro) to improve its metabolic stability and yield a relatively longer duration[1].

Clinical studies have shown that the effect of Selank peptide is similar to that of tranquilizers at low doses but is not accompanied by the unwanted side effects of benzodiazepine tranquilizers such as amnesia, withdrawal, and dependence. Benzodiazepines are allosteric modulators of the type-A γ-aminobutyric acid receptor (GABAAR) and can increase the inhibitory action of GABA, the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the CNS. The similarity of the spectrum of physiological effects of Selank and classical benzodiazepines (such as diazepam and phenazepam) suggests a similar basis for their mechanism of action: the allosteric modulation of GABAA receptors.

Benefits

Selank peptide is efficient in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety and depression by correcting the serotonin metabolism and increasing the expression of the BDNF. It has pronounced anxiolytic activity and acts as a stable neuropsychotropic, antidepressant, and antistress drug that relieves aggression and fear reactions in different animal species. Selank also has a nootropic action, which positively influences the formation of memory and learning processes and marked immunomodulatory activity[2].

Mechanism of action

Selank appears to affect memory by influencing the expression of specific genes in the hippocampus. Selank can even help to restore memory and learning after brain damage. In at least one study, rats with neurological impairment had their cognitive processes restored after receiving selank. This effect appears to be related to the selank’s artificial inhibition of the brain's catecholamine system.

References

[1] Anastasiya Volkova. “Selank Administration Affects the Expression of Some Genes Involved in GABAergic Neurotransmission.” Frontiers in Pharmacology 7 1 (2016): 31.

[2] Anastasiya Kasian. “Peptide Selank Enhances the Effect of Diazepam in Reducing Anxiety in Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress Conditions in Rats.” Behavioural Neurology 2017 (2017): 5091027.