Selank
A Russian-developed heptapeptide analog of tuftsin studied as a nasal anxiolytic with minimal sedation in small clinical trials.
In plain English
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide developed in the Russian Federation in the 1990s based on the immune-active tetrapeptide tuftsin. It is administered intranasally and has been studied primarily in Russian clinical trials for generalized anxiety disorder and adjustment disorders. Reported effects include reduction in anxiety symptoms without the sedation, cognitive impairment, or dependence associated with benzodiazepines. Selank is registered as a medicine in Russia but is not approved by the FDA. It is widely sold internationally as a research peptide.
What it is
Selank (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) with a C-terminal extension that increases stability.
Mechanism (summary)
Proposed mechanisms include modulation of GABAergic and serotonergic signaling, influence on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and effects on enkephalinase activity. Detailed mainstream pharmacology is limited.
Why people research it
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Adjustment disorders and stress reactions
- Cognitive performance under stress
- Withdrawal-related anxiety
Human evidence
Small Russian-language clinical trials report anxiolytic effects on par with low-dose benzodiazepines without sedation. Independent, large, English-language RCTs are not available.
Animal / lab evidence
Rodent studies describe anxiolytic effects in standard behavioral models (elevated plus maze, open field) and modulation of stress-related neurotransmitters.
Key studies
Each summary explains the design, what was found, and what it doesn't prove.
In a small Russian study, Selank reduced anxiety as well as a benzodiazepine — but without the same sleepiness.
People with anxiety disorders showed changes in a brain-growth protein (BDNF) after using Selank.
History
Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences in collaboration with the V.V. Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology.
PeptidePedia is for educational and informational purposes only. We do not sell peptides, prescribe peptides, provide medical advice, or recommend treatment. Peptides may not be approved for human use except in specific legal prescription or clinical contexts. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making health decisions.