Dihexa is a neuroprotective peptide that enhances memory, learning, and neural repair by activating growth factors like HGF. It supports synaptic growth, protects against neurodegenerative diseases, and promotes recovery from cognitive decline and motor impairments. Dihexa is a synthetic oligopeptide derivative of angiotensin IV. It is highly BBB-permeable and binds with high affinity to HGF, amplifying neurotrophic and regenerative effects. It improves cognitive function, facilitates synaptogenesis, and promotes neural repair, especially in neurodegenerative disease models.
Dihexa
Also known as: DiHexa; PNB-0408; N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6)-amino hexanoic amide
Overview
Benefits
- Enhanced memory and learning
- Improved stroke recovery
- Neurodegenerative protection
- Better motor function
- Increased synaptic density
- Reduced anxiety
Consider This Peptide If You Want To
- Enhance cognitive function, memory, and learning (neurodegeneration or cognitive decline)
- Support neural regeneration and synaptic growth for long-term neurological health
Dosage & Administration
Dosage Guidelines
Recommended Dosage
• Amount:10 mg
• Frequency:daily
• Duration:6 weeks
• Rest Period:6 weeks
• Time of Day:morning
• Ingestion:oral
Administration Routes:OralTransdermal
Oral Administration:
• Standard Dosage: 10–50 mg daily
• Timing: Daily
• Duration: 6 week cycles
Research Findings on Dosage:
Oral or Transdermal:
• Commonly Reported Dosage: 10--50 mg daily
• Duration: 6 week cycles
◦ Note: If cognitive repair is your primary goal, can be taken prior to disease diagnosis
◦ Consider alternating with Semax, Selank, and Cerebrolysin every 6 weeks
Mechanism of Action
Mechanism of Action
How this peptide works in the body
Angiogenesis Modulation:
Dihexa binds with high affinity to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor c-Met, activating the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway, which promotes neuronal growth, survival, and synaptic repair. This pathway also enhances angiogenesis, increasing blood flow and nutrient delivery to the brain, which supports cognitive function and neuroregeneration.
Inflammation Reduction:
By modulating HGF-related pathways, Dihexa reduces neuroinflammation by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) and inhibiting microglial overactivation. This leads to reduced oxidative stress and neurotoxic damage, protecting dopaminergic and cholinergic neurons from degeneration.
Tissue Regeneration:
Dihexa stimulates synaptogenesis and dendritic arborization by increasing neuronal connectivity and plasticity through c-Met/PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signaling cascades. This enhances axon outgrowth and synaptic remodeling, facilitating neural repair in conditions like stroke, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease.
Neuroprotection:
Dihexa shields neurons from excitotoxicity and oxidative stress by modulating glutamatergic signaling, preventing excess NMDA receptor activation that leads to calcium overload and neuronal apoptosis. Additionally, it enhances mitochondrial function and ATP production, improving neuronal energy efficiency and survival under stress conditions.
Gut-Brain Axis Regulation:
Through its effects on synaptic connectivity and neurotrophic signaling, Dihexa stabilizes neural networks involved in mood regulation. This indirect neuromodulation of the gut-brain axis may help reduce anxiety, nervousness, and cognitive fluctuations by optimizing neural communication between the central and enteric nervous systems.
Consider Stacking With
- Any GHRH (CJC-1295, MOD-GRF-129, Tesamorelin)
- BPC-157
- TB-4
- Semax
- Selank
- Cerebrolysin
- FGL(L)
- PE-22-88
Side Effects & Cautions
Common Side Effects
- Nervousness, irritability, insomnia, jitters, mood swings
Cautions
- Use in cycles to prevent receptor desensitization
Research & References
Research Highlights
Cognitive Function (2013): Shown to reverse memory deficits and improve spatial learning in aged rats.
Neuroprotection (2015): Prevented Parkinson-like symptoms and restored motor function in preclinical models.
Synaptic Growth (2016): Demonstrated neurotrophic effects 10 million times more potent than BDNF.
Memory Enhancement (2019): Enhanced synaptic plasticity and learning ability in rodent studies.
References
Wright, J. W., et al. "Neuroprotection and Synaptogenesis by Angiotensin IV and Dihexa." Frontiers in Neurotherapeutics
US National Library of Medicine. "Effects of Dihexa on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Models."
Benoist, C., et al. "Mechanisms of Dihexa in HGF/c-Met Signaling Activation." Journal of Neuropharmacology
McCoy, A., et al. "Dihexa's Role in Cognitive Enhancement and Memory Consolidation." Journal of Neuroscience Research