Selank

Selank is a tuftsin-derived synthetic heptapeptide that modulates GABA, serotonin, and dopamine to reduce anxiety and enhance cognition without sedation or dependency. It also exhibits antiviral and anti-inflammatory actions.

- Reduce anxiety and stress

- Enhance cognition and immune balance

Mechanism of Action

How this peptide works in the body

GABAergic Modulation:

Selank enhances gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor affinity by modulating GABA-A receptor subunit expression, increasing chloride ion (Cl⁻) influx, hyperpolarizing neurons, and reducing excitability. This leads to anxiolytic effects without sedation, distinguishing it from benzodiazepines.

Neurotransmitter Regulation:

Selank modulates serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) metabolism by influencing tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity, increasing serotonin synthesis while preventing excessive dopamine degradation via inhibition of monoamine oxidase (MAO-A/B). This stabilizes mood, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive function.

Enkephalin Preservation:

Selank inhibits enkephalin-degrading enzymes (enkephalinase and neprilysin), prolonging the activity of endogenous opioid peptides like leu-enkephalin and met-enkephalin, which activate δ-opioid receptors (DOR) to reduce pain perception, anxiety, and stress-induced emotional dysregulation.

Immune Modulation:

Selank regulates cytokine balance by suppressing interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)while promoting interleukin-10 (IL-10), reducing neuroinflammation and immune overactivation under chronic stress. This stabilizes immune responses and supports overall resilience.

BDNF Elevation:

Selank stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression through activation of the ERK1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways, promoting neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and long-term memory consolidation. Increased BDNF supports hippocampal neurogenesis, enhancing learning and cognitive flexibility.