Selank

Overview

Selank was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences alongside Semax. It is based on the tetrapeptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), which is a fragment of the IgG heavy chain, with additional Pro-Gly-Pro added for stability. Selank has been used as an approved anxiolytic drug in Russia.

Unlike benzodiazepines, Selank produces anxiolytic effects without sedation, muscle relaxation, or the dependence liability associated with GABA-A modulators. It normalizes anxiety-related behavior through mechanisms involving BDNF, IL-6 modulation, and possibly the opioidergic and serotonergic systems. It has also been studied for its nootropic effects — improving memory consolidation in addition to reducing anxiety — which is an unusual combination that has made it a subject of considerable research interest.

Mechanism of Action

Selank modulates the GABAergic system indirectly and has demonstrated dose-dependent effects on BDNF levels in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. It normalizes IL-6 and other cytokine levels in ways correlated with anxiety-reduction. Enkephalinase inhibition (slowing the degradation of endogenous opioids) may contribute to its effects.

Research Areas

• ●Anxiolytic pharmacology without sedation
• ●Memory formation and recall
• ●BDNF modulation
• ●Generalized anxiety disorder models
• ●Cytokine normalization in stress
• ●Non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics research

Storage & Handling

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