Epitalon (Epithalon)

Mechanism of Action

Epitalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide designed to mimic the biological activity of epithalamin, a peptide extract from the pineal gland studied extensively by Vladimir Khavinson and colleagues. Its primary investigated mechanism is the activation of telomerase, the enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length at chromosomal ends. By upregulating the catalytic subunit of telomerase (hTERT), epitalon may counteract the progressive telomere shortening that occurs with each cell division and contributes to cellular senescence. Additional reported effects include normalization of melatonin secretion patterns, modulation of antioxidant enzyme expression, and regulation of neuroendocrine function.

Research Applications

• Studies have investigated telomerase activation and telomere elongation in cell cultures
• Research has examined effects on lifespan signaling pathways in animal models
• Studies have explored melatonin secretion normalization in aging research models
• Research has assessed antioxidant enzyme expression and oxidative stress reduction mechanisms

Key Published Studies

1. Khavinson VKh, et al. Peptide epitalon activates chromatin at the old age. Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2003;24(5):329-333.

   Key finding: Epitalon treatment reactivated heterochromatin in aged tissue samples, suggesting modulation of gene expression patterns associated with aging research.

2. Anisimov VN, et al. Effect of Epitalon on biomarkers of aging, life span and spontaneous tumor incidence in female Swiss-derived SHR mice. Biogerontology. 2003;4(4):193-202.

   Key finding: Research investigated epitalon-mediated effects on aging biomarkers and lifespan signaling pathways in mice, observing modulation of age-related parameters without increased spontaneous tumor incidence.

Chemical Properties

Type

Peptide (tetrapeptide)

Molecular Formula

C₁₄H₂₂N₄O₉

Molar Mass

390.35 g/mol