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Selank

Selank (CAS 129954-34-1) is a synthetic heptapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) with a molecular weight of 751.9 Da and formula C₃₃H₅₇N₁₁O₉. Designed as a tuftsin analog with a Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal tripeptide extension, Selank combines the immunomodulatory properties of tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) with enhanced metabolic stability and central nervous system bioavailability. It is a key research tool for studying anxiolytic mechanisms, cognitive enhancement, and the intersection of immune and neural signaling.

Technical Specifications

Property Value
CAS Number 129954-34-1
Molecular Formula C₃₃H₅₇N₁₁O₉
Molecular Weight 751.9 Da
Purity ≥98% (HPLC-verified)
Appearance Lyophilized white powder
Solubility Soluble in sterile water and aqueous buffers
Storage -20°C (lyophilized), 2–8°C (reconstituted)

Mechanism of Action

Selank exerts anxiolytic and nootropic effects through a multimodal mechanism centered on the GABAergic system and immune-neural crosstalk. The peptide acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptors, enhancing chloride ion conductance without direct benzodiazepine-site binding, which produces anxiolysis without the sedation, muscle relaxation, or dependence liability associated with benzodiazepines. Selank also increases the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus and cortex, promoting synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus, and enhanced cognitive performance in learning and memory tasks. The Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide extension stabilizes the molecule against aminopeptidase degradation and facilitates transport across the blood-brain barrier, achieving CNS concentrations sufficient for central GABAergic modulation. Additionally, Selank modulates the expression of immune-related genes including IL-6 and its receptor in the brain, linking immune signaling to its neurotropic effects. Unlike classical anxiolytics, Selank does not impair motor coordination or cause withdrawal effects upon cessation.

Research Applications

  • Primary: Anxiolytic mechanisms — GABA-A receptor modulation, BDNF-mediated neuroplasticity
  • Secondary: Cognitive enhancement and memory research, stress-induced immune modulation, blood-brain barrier peptide transport
  • Model Systems: In vitro (GABA-A receptor electrophysiology, hippocampal neuron cultures), in vivo (elevated plus maze, Morris water maze, forced swim test in rodents)

Quality Control & Analytical Methods

  • HPLC: ≥98% purity verification at 214/220 nm (C18 reversed-phase column)
  • Mass Spectrometry: ESI-MS for molecular weight confirmation (751.9 ±1.0 Da)
  • Peptide Content: Amino acid analysis (AAA) for net peptide content determination
  • Endotoxin: <1 EU/mg (LAL assay)
  • TFA Content: <1% (ion chromatography)

Stability & Storage

Condition Stability
-20°C (lyophilized) 24 months
4°C (lyophilized) 6 months
25°C (lyophilized) 1 month
Reconstituted (4°C) 7 days
Reconstituted (-20°C) 30 days

Key Research References

  • Zozulya et al. (2008) — Selank: a novel anxiolytic peptide with immunotropic activity. Bull Exp Biol Med. PMID: 17434637
  • Seredenin et al. (1998) — The neurochemical and behavioral profile of Selank. Psychopharmacol Bull. [PubMed search: Selank tuftsin analog]
  • Andreeva et al. (2005) — Influence of Selank on the expression of BDNF in rat brain. Neurosci Behav Physiol. [PubMed search: Selank BDNF]

Source & Purchase

For researchers requiring research-grade SELANK with full analytical documentation including HPLC, LC-MS, and Certificate of Analysis, visit the HK Peptides product page for specifications, bulk pricing, and ordering.

View SELANK Product →

FAQ

Q: What purity level is standard for Selank? A: HK Peptides supplies Selank at ≥98% purity by HPLC with full COA documentation.

Q: How should Selank be stored for research use? A: Lyophilized Selank should be stored at -20°C. Reconstituted solutions at 4°C for short-term use (up to 7 days).