Overview
Epithalon (Epitalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology. It activates telomerase in somatic cells, elongating telomeres and potentially extending cellular lifespan. Human trials spanning 12+ years have reported improvements in melatonin secretion, immune function, and reduced mortality in elderly cohorts.
Mechanism of action
Epithalon stimulates telomerase (hTERT) expression in somatic cells, counteracting the telomere shortening that occurs with each cell division. It also regulates pineal gland function, restoring melatonin secretion that declines with age. Additional mechanisms include upregulation of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase) and modulation of cortisol/melatonin ratios.
Selected literature
- [01]
Peptide regulation of aging
Khavinson V.K. · Neuroendocrinology Letters · 2002
Epithalon restored melatonin secretion and improved antioxidant status in elderly patients over a 12-year follow-up study.
- [02]
Epithalon activates telomerase and elongates telomeres in human cells
Khavinson V. et al. · Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine · 2003
Epithalon induced telomerase activity in human somatic cells and produced measurable telomere elongation after treatment.
- [03]
Effect of Epithalon on mortality of elderly cohort
Anisimov V.N. et al. · Gerontology · 2003
Epithalon treatment in elderly subjects was associated with a statistically significant reduction in all-cause mortality over a 6-year observation period.
The information on this page is summarized from the published research literature and is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used to guide treatment decisions. Our peptides are sold for in-vitro research and laboratory use only.