Peptide Research Database
Research-backed information on peptides — dosage, half-life, risks, and the latest peer-reviewed studies from PubMed.
AEDG Peptide
A tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) identical to Epithalon's core active sequence — effectively the same compound. Studied for telomerase activation and pineal gland regulation, promoting melatonin production and potentially slowing cellular aging through telomere maintenance. Part of the Khavinson bioregulator peptide family developed at the Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology in St. Petersburg.
CJC-1295 (no DAC)
A synthetic GHRH analogue (also called Mod GRF 1-29) consisting of the first 29 amino acids of native GHRH with four amino acid substitutions for increased enzymatic stability. Stimulates natural, pulsatile growth hormone release while preserving the body's somatostatin feedback regulation. One of the most commonly prescribed GH peptides, often combined with Ipamorelin for synergistic effects.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin
The most commonly prescribed peptide combination in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. Pairs the GHRH analogue CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) with the selective ghrelin-mimetic Ipamorelin for synergistic, pulsatile growth hormone release. Exploits two complementary signaling pathways — cAMP (GHRH) and calcium/PLC (ghrelin receptor) — to amplify GH pulses while maintaining minimal side effects.
CJC-1295 with DAC
CJC-1295 with Drug Affinity Complex — the same core GHRH analogue as Mod GRF 1-29 but with a reactive succinimide linker that covalently binds to circulating albumin after injection. This albumin binding dramatically extends the half-life from 30 minutes to nearly a week, allowing weekly dosing. Produces sustained rather than pulsatile GH elevation, which some practitioners consider less physiological.
Cortagen
A short synthetic tetrapeptide bioregulator (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) developed by the Khavinson Institute in Russia. Designed to normalize brain cortex function by modulating gene expression in cortical neurons. Part of the Khavinson peptide bioregulator family alongside Epithalon and Vilon. One of the few peptides specifically formulated for cortical brain function optimization, available in both injectable and oral/sublingual forms.
Dihexa
A hexapeptide derivative of angiotensin IV reported to be up to 10 million times more potent than BDNF at enhancing cognitive function in animal models. One of the most discussed nootropic peptides for memory enhancement and neuroplasticity. Acts through the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met receptor system rather than traditional neurotransmitter pathways, representing a novel mechanism for cognitive enhancement.
DSIP
Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide — a nine-amino-acid neuropeptide originally isolated from rabbit brain tissue during sleep research. Promotes deep delta wave (stage 3) sleep, the most restorative sleep phase, while also modulating stress responses, pain perception, and oxidative stress. One of the few peptides specifically targeting sleep architecture rather than sedation.
Epithalon
A synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) based on epithalamin, a natural extract from the pineal gland. Studied primarily for its ability to activate telomerase, the enzyme that maintains telomere length at chromosome ends. Telomere shortening is a fundamental mechanism of cellular aging, making Epitalon one of the most discussed peptides in anti-aging research. Originally developed by Dr. Vladimir Khavinson in Russia.
FOXO4-DRI
A D-retro-inverso peptide that selectively destroys senescent 'zombie cells' by disrupting the FOXO4-p53 interaction that keeps these cells alive. One of the first true senolytic peptides, designed to clear the dysfunctional cells that accumulate with aging and drive chronic inflammation (the 'senescence-associated secretory phenotype'). Demonstrated rejuvenating effects in aged mice but remains highly experimental for human use.
GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) with extremely high copper binding affinity, found throughout the human body with declining levels after age 20. The most extensively studied cosmetic peptide, with proven effects on collagen synthesis, skin remodeling, wound healing, and antioxidant defense. Modulates the expression of over 4,000 human genes, resetting gene expression toward a younger, more regenerative profile.
Glutathione
A tripeptide (glutamate-cysteine-glycine) and the body's master antioxidant, present in every human cell at millimolar concentrations. Essential for detoxification, immune function, and protection against oxidative stress. Widely used for skin brightening (inhibits melanin synthesis), liver support, and systemic antioxidant therapy. Available in IV, oral, and intramuscular formulations.
HGH 191AA
Recombinant human growth hormone (somatotropin), identical to the 191-amino-acid protein naturally produced by the anterior pituitary gland. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency and several other conditions under multiple brand names (Norditropin, Genotropin, Humatrope). Widely used off-label in anti-aging medicine and bodybuilding for its effects on body composition, recovery, and tissue regeneration.
Humanin
A 24-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 16S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. Related to MOTS-c but with distinct cytoprotective mechanisms. Protects cells against oxidative stress, apoptosis, and age-related degeneration by interacting with BAX (pro-apoptotic protein) and IGFBP-3. One of the most studied peptides in longevity research, with evidence of declining levels in aging tissues.
IGF-1
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 — the 70-amino-acid peptide hormone that serves as the primary mediator of growth hormone's anabolic effects throughout the body. Produced mainly by the liver in response to GH signaling, IGF-1 drives protein synthesis, cell proliferation, and tissue growth. FDA-approved as Increlex for primary IGF-1 deficiency, with off-label use in bodybuilding and anti-aging for its potent anabolic and recovery-enhancing properties.
Ipamorelin
The most selective growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) available, stimulating GH release from the pituitary with minimal effects on cortisol, prolactin, or appetite. Considered the mildest and safest GHRP, making it the most widely prescribed growth hormone peptide in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. Often the recommended starting point for patients new to GH-optimizing peptide therapy.
Melatonin
The primary hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates the circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle) in response to light-dark signals. Also functions as a potent antioxidant, crossing both the blood-brain and blood-testicular barriers. Natural production declines significantly with age, contributing to sleep disruption in older adults. One of the most widely used supplements globally, available over-the-counter in the US and by prescription in many other countries.
MK-677
An orally active, non-peptide growth hormone secretagogue also known as Ibutamoren. Mimics ghrelin and stimulates GH release through the same receptor (GHS-R1a) as injectable GHRPs, but with the convenience of oral dosing. The only orally bioavailable GH secretagogue, making it uniquely popular despite not being technically a peptide. Investigated in clinical trials for muscle wasting and osteoporosis but never completed FDA approval.
MOTS-C
A mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA. Acts as an exercise mimetic, producing many of the metabolic benefits of physical exercise without the exercise itself — improving insulin sensitivity, glucose uptake, and fatty acid oxidation. Discovered at the University of Southern California in 2015, MOTS-c is one of the first identified signaling molecules encoded by the mitochondrial genome rather than nuclear DNA.
NAD+
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide — an essential coenzyme present in every living cell, required for over 500 enzymatic reactions including cellular energy production, DNA repair, and sirtuin-mediated gene regulation. NAD+ levels decline by approximately 50% between ages 40 and 60, contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction and aging. Supplementation via IV infusion, oral precursors (NMN/NR), or injection aims to restore youthful NAD+ levels.
P21 (P021)
A small molecule peptide mimetic derived from ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). Promotes neurogenesis, protects existing neurons, and inhibits tau hyperphosphorylation — the pathological process that forms neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease. One of the few peptides specifically targeting neurodegenerative mechanisms, representing a potential therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline.
Pentosan Polysulfate
A semi-synthetic polysulfated xylan (glycosaminoglycan) derived from beechwood. FDA-approved orally (Elmiron) for interstitial cystitis, with widespread off-label use as an injectable for joint and cartilage repair in osteoarthritis. One of the most popular peptide-adjacent therapies in sports medicine and regenerative clinics. Mimics heparan sulfate proteoglycans to protect cartilage and reduce joint inflammation.
RG3
Ginsenoside Rg3 — a bioactive triterpenoid saponin compound derived from Panax ginseng. While not a peptide, it is frequently offered alongside peptide therapies in regenerative medicine clinics for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. One of the most pharmacologically active ginsenosides, with research demonstrating effects on angiogenesis inhibition, immune cell activation, and cancer cell apoptosis.
Sermorelin
A synthetic GHRH analogue consisting of the first 29 amino acids of native GHRH and the first GHRH peptide to receive FDA approval (as Geref, for pediatric GH deficiency). Considered one of the safest and best-studied GH-stimulating peptides, with one of the longest clinical track records. Preserves natural pulsatile GH release by working within the body's existing hypothalamic-pituitary feedback loop.
SS-31
Elamipretide — a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that concentrates 5000-fold in the inner mitochondrial membrane where it binds cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential for electron transport chain function. Restores mitochondrial energy production and reduces oxidative stress from the inside out. One of the most promising anti-aging compounds in clinical development, with trials in heart failure, Barth syndrome, and age-related mitochondrial decline.
Tesamorelin + Ipamorelin
A popular combination pairing the FDA-approved GHRH analogue Tesamorelin with the selective ghrelin-mimetic Ipamorelin for enhanced growth hormone release. Favored for body composition improvement, visceral fat reduction, and anti-aging. Tesamorelin's proven clinical efficacy for visceral fat reduction combined with Ipamorelin's clean side-effect profile makes this a premium GH peptide protocol.
Thymalin
A thymic peptide extract originally developed in Russia by Dr. Vladimir Khavinson, containing a complex mixture of small peptides derived from young animal thymus glands. Modulates immune function by supporting thymic activity, T-cell maturation, and immune surveillance. One of the most established peptide preparations in Russian medicine, with decades of clinical use data, though Western clinical evidence remains limited.
Thymosin Beta-4
The full-length 43-amino-acid peptide naturally produced by the thymus gland — the parent molecule from which TB-500 is derived. Thymosin Beta-4 is the most abundant actin-sequestering protein in mammalian cells, playing a fundamental role in cell migration, tissue repair, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory responses throughout the body. The full-length form may offer broader biological activity than the TB-500 fragment alone.
Thymulin
A nonapeptide (9 amino acids) naturally secreted by thymic epithelial cells that requires zinc binding for full biological activity. Distinct from Thymalin (which is a thymic extract mixture). Plays a central role in T-cell maturation, immune system regulation, and maintenance of the zinc-thymulin axis that declines with aging. Thymulin levels decrease as the thymus involutes with age, contributing to immune senescence.
Vilon
A synthetic dipeptide (Lys-Glu) bioregulator developed as a thymus-targeting immune peptide. Studied for immune system modulation, thymic rejuvenation, and anti-aging effects. Part of the Khavinson peptide bioregulator family alongside Thymalin, Epithalon, and Cortexin. Designed to support T-cell maturation and restore age-related immune decline through peptide-mediated gene regulation in thymic tissue.
Recent Research
A novel exopolysaccharide from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum H6 improves cholesterol metabolism via Muribaculum-mediated activation of the enterohepatic FXR-FGF15 axis.
Reactive Carbonyl Species Mediate Isothiocyanate Signaling Pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana Guard Cells.
Amylin and the renin-angiotensin system: risk or opportunity in amylin-based therapy?
Amylin and the renin-angiotensin system: risk or opportunity in amylin-based therapy?
Increased levels of systemic iron content in adult-onset interleukin-6 knockout mice.