Epitalon

Description

Introduction to Epitalon (Research Use Only)

Epitalon, also known as Epithalon or Epithalamin, is a synthetic tetrapeptide composed of four amino acids: Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly. It is a laboratory analog of epithalamin, a natural peptide secreted by the pineal gland. Originally developed by Russian researcher Professor Vladimir Khavinson, Epitalon has been studied for its role in modulating cellular aging, circadian regulation, and oxidative stress.

Its use in research spans across fields including gerontology, neurobiology, endocrinology, and age-related disease models.

Key Areas of Study

1. Cellular Aging and Telomere Biology

Epitalon has been studied for its ability to activate telomerase, an enzyme that supports the maintenance of telomeres—protective DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes. Research involving animal models suggests that telomerase activation may be associated with delayed cellular senescence.

2. Sleep Regulation and Melatonin Rhythms

Experimental studies indicate that Epitalon may influence pineal gland function and melatonin secretion. As melatonin plays a central role in circadian rhythm, Epitalon has been used in models evaluating sleep-wake cycles and age-related changes in hormone regulation.

3. Immune System Function

In rodent and aging models, Epitalon has demonstrated immune-modulatory effects. Research has focused on its role in immune cell regeneration, thymic activity, and systemic inflammatory balance in aging subjects.

4. Apoptosis and Cellular Surveillance

Epitalon has been studied for its impact on cell cycle regulation and apoptosis (programmed cell death). In vitro studies suggest potential applications in models focused on cellular senescence, DNA repair, and early carcinogenesis.

5. Retinal and Ocular Health

Research on Epitalon’s effect on retinal degeneration and oxidative damage in eye tissues has been explored in experimental aging models. These studies evaluate cellular protection mechanisms in visual system aging.

6. Antioxidant Mechanisms

Studies have reported that Epitalon exhibits antioxidant activity, particularly in reducing lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress markers. It is included in broader investigations of compounds with potential to mitigate oxidative damage.

7. Mitochondrial Function and Physical Endurance

Animal models involving physical performance testing have shown correlations between Epitalon administration and improved cellular energy output, potentially through support of mitochondrial efficiency and redox balance.

8. Cardiovascular Research

Preclinical studies have included Epitalon in models assessing arterial elasticity, blood pressure regulation, and markers of cardiovascular aging. These investigations aim to understand how pineal peptides influence vascular aging.

9. Reproductive Aging

Studies have explored Epitalon’s potential to influence hormonal axes associated with gonadal function and reproductive health in older subjects. These models evaluate endocrine feedback loops and age-related fertility decline.

10. Neuroprotective Models

In aging and neurodegeneration models, Epitalon has been examined for its potential neuroprotective effects, including protection against oxidative damage, synaptic deterioration, and cognitive decline. Its role in promoting neuronal survival is an active area of investigation.

Supporting References (Scientific and Medical Journals)

• Khavinson, V. Kh. et al. (2003). Peptide Epitalon activates telomerase and elongates telomeres in human somatic cells. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 135(4), 429–432. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1025486001734
• Anisimov, V. N. et al. (2002). Effect of epitalon on biomarkers of aging, survival, and spontaneous tumor incidence in female Swiss-derived SHR mice. Biogerontology, 3(2), 167–172. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1015267100153
• Khavinson, V. Kh., Malinin, V. V. (2005). Gerontological Aspects of Genome Peptide Regulation. Neuroendocrinology Letters, 26(6), 745–751. PMID: 16380694
• Popovich, I. G. et al. (2001). Effects of epitalon on life span and spontaneous tumor incidence in laboratory rodents. Advances in Gerontology, 7, 33–40.
• Tukhovskaya, E. A. et al. (2005). Antioxidant activity of epitalon in a model of accelerated aging. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 139(6), 721–723. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10517-005-0383-3

Disclaimer:
Epitalon is a research chemical and is not approved by the FDA for human consumption or therapeutic use. It is intended strictly for laboratory research purposes only. Any discussion of effects is based on animal studies and in vitro research models, and does not imply human efficacy or safety. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.