Dihexa
A small-molecule angiotensin IV analog with reported pro-cognitive effects in animals via the hepatocyte growth factor / c-Met system.
In plain English
Dihexa (N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide) is a small peptidomimetic derived from the angiotensin IV system, developed by researchers at Washington State University. In rodents, dihexa potently enhanced learning and memory and increased dendritic spine density, with effects attributed to potentiation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) / c-Met signaling. There are no published human trials. Dihexa is sold as a research peptide and has attracted attention for cognitive performance, but its safety, pharmacokinetics, and oncologic risk in humans are completely uncharacterized — and c-Met signaling is itself oncogenic in many contexts.
What it is
Dihexa is a synthetic peptidomimetic derived from the active core of angiotensin IV. It is N-acylated with hexanoic acid to enhance oral bioavailability and brain penetration.
Mechanism (summary)
Dihexa appears to act as a positive modulator of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) / c-Met receptor system, which drives synaptogenesis and dendritic spine formation in the CNS.
Why people research it
- Cognitive enhancement and memory
- Synaptogenesis and dendritic spine formation
- Animal models of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease
Human evidence
No published human trials are available. All efficacy data are preclinical.
Animal / lab evidence
Rodent studies report markedly enhanced learning and memory and increased hippocampal dendritic spine density. Animal models of dementia show functional improvements with dihexa.
Key studies
Each summary explains the design, what was found, and what it doesn't prove.
In rats, dihexa given by mouth reversed memory deficits and grew new neural connections in the hippocampus.
In a dish, dihexa boosted a growth-factor pathway that helps neurons make new connections.
History
Developed by Joseph Harding's lab at Washington State University in the 2010s as part of a program to translate the cognitive effects of angiotensin IV into a drug-like molecule.
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