Dihexa

Overview

Dihexa was developed at Washington State University by Joseph Harding and colleagues as a metabolically stable analogue of the angiotensin IV metabolite Ac-SDKP. It belongs to the class of HGF/MET signaling enhancers and was designed to penetrate the blood-brain barrier readily. In rodent models of cognitive impairment, it showed dramatic restoration of learning and memory performance in tasks including the Morris water maze.

The comparison to BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in terms of potency for synaptogenesis has generated significant scientific interest, though it is important to note these comparisons are made in specific assay conditions. Human data on dihexa is essentially nonexistent, making it a compound of exclusively research interest at this stage.

Mechanism of Action

Dihexa potentiates hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling at the MET receptor tyrosine kinase, promoting synaptogenesis, dendritic spine formation, and long-term potentiation. It dimerizes HGF/MET complexes, amplifying receptor activation. This signaling cascade is critical for synaptic plasticity and memory consolidation.

Research Areas

• ●Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline models
• ●Synaptogenesis and dendritic spine research
• ●HGF/MET receptor pharmacology
• ●Memory and learning in rodent models
• ●Blood-brain barrier penetrant pro-cognitive compounds
• ●Post-stroke cognitive recovery

Storage & Handling

For Research Use Only. This information is provided for educational and research purposes. Dihexa is not approved for human consumption, veterinary use, or clinical application. All research must be conducted in accordance with applicable laws and institutional guidelines.