Epithalon
Research Overview · Mechanism of Action · Reconstitution Guide
Overview
Epithalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) is a synthetic tetrapeptide analogue of epithalamin, a polypeptide extract from the bovine pineal gland. It was developed by Vladimir Khavinson at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology. Epithalon is one of the most studied peptides in aging research, with a substantial body of Russian literature examining its effects on telomerase activation, telomere elongation, antioxidant defense, and neuroendocrine regulation.
Mechanism of Action
Epithalon activates telomerase (hTERT) in somatic cells, promoting telomere elongation and potentially extending replicative lifespan in vitro. It upregulates antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) and reduces oxidative stress markers. Epithalon also modulates pineal melatonin synthesis, regulates circadian rhythm-related gene expression, and has been shown to suppress oncogene expression in some cell line models. Its effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis suggest a role in neuroendocrine aging regulation.
Key Studies & References
Khavinson VKh et al. (2003). Epithalon peptide induces telomerase activity and telomere elongation in human somatic cells. Bull Exp Biol Med 135:590–592.
Anisimov VN et al. (2003). Effect of Epitalon on biomarkers of aging, life span and spontaneous tumor incidence in female Swiss-derived SHR mice. Biogerontology 4:193–202.
Khavinson V et al. (2012). Peptide regulation of aging. St. Petersburg: Nauka. Comprehensive monograph on peptide bioregulators.
Bacteriostatic Water Reconstitution Guide
Research Use Only — The following reconstitution information is provided for in vitro laboratory research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.
Recommended Solvent
Bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Standard Volume
Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to a 10 mg vial to yield a 5000 mcg/mL (5 mg/mL) solution.
Working Concentration
5 mg/mL standard. May dilute to 1–2 mg/mL for lower-dose protocols.
Storage (Reconstituted)
Reconstituted: 2–8°C, use within 28 days. Lyophilized: -20°C, desiccated.
Stability Window
28 days refrigerated. As a small tetrapeptide, epithalon is highly stable in solution.
Technique
Inject solvent slowly along the vial wall. Swirl gently. Epithalon is a small tetrapeptide and dissolves very readily — typically within 15–30 seconds.
Notes
Epithalon is among the most soluble and stable peptides in the catalog. Bacteriostatic water is preferred for multi-use vials in extended research protocols.
Research Dosing Reference
The following dosing information is derived from published preclinical research literature and is provided for reference purposes only.
Clinical / Human Research Range
Russian clinical protocols: 5–10 mg daily for 10-day courses, subcutaneous or IV.
Preclinical Models
Rodent studies: 0.1–1 mg/kg subcutaneous, daily or in 10-day cycles.
Calculation Example
For a 5 mg/mL solution: a 5 mg research dose = 1.0 mL. A 10 mg dose = 2.0 mL.