Epithalon
PreclinicalSynthetic tetrapeptide
Research material. Not for human or animal consumption.
Research overview
Epithalon, also spelled Epitalon, is the synthetic tetrapeptide Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly (AEDG), developed by Vladimir Khavinson's group in St Petersburg. It was designed to reproduce the activity of epithalamin, a peptide extract of the pineal gland. Russian studies reported telomerase activation and telomere lengthening in cell cultures and longer lifespan in rodents and fruit flies. Most work comes from one research network, and independent controlled human trials are lacking.
Laboratory, computational, ex vivo or animal model research is the main evidence base.
Questions about Epithalon
PRODUCT QUESTIONSWhat is Epithalon?
Epithalon is a four residue peptide made of alanine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid and glycine. It is a synthetic compound modelled on the activity of a pineal gland extract.
What research has been published on Epithalon?
Studies from the developing group describe telomerase induction in human cell lines, effects on melatonin rhythms and gene expression, and lifespan extension in animals. Computational work proposed DNA binding mechanisms. Independent replication and rigorous human data are limited.
What batch documentation should accompany Epithalon?
Epithalon: Ask for the COA and analytical reports for the batch being quoted. For a small acidic tetrapeptide, ask for mass spectrometry, HPLC purity with aspartimide related impurities reported and the counterion content.
How should Epithalon storage conditions be assessed?
Store Epithalon dry at −20°C or 2°C to 8°C, sealed against moisture. Its aspartic acid next to glycine can rearrange in solution, so make solutions fresh.