Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.
Epithalon
Also known as: Epitalon, Epithalone, AEDG Peptide, Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly
Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) based on the natural epithalamin peptide produced by the pineal gland, developed by Russian gerontologist Vladimir Khavinson. It has been studied primarily for its potential to activate telomerase and extend telomere length, positioning it as an anti-aging compound. Most research originates from Russian institutions, with limited Western peer-reviewed data.
Risk Level
Low RiskDifficulty
Intermediate| CAS Number | 307297-39-8 |
| Molecular Formula | C14H22N4O9 |
| Class | Peptide |
| Category | Well-Known Peptides |
Mechanism of Action
Epithalon stimulates the expression of the catalytic subunit of telomerase (hTERT), promoting telomere elongation in somatic cells and potentially extending cellular replicative capacity. It acts on the pineal gland to normalize melatonin production, which declines with age, thereby restoring circadian rhythm function. The peptide also modulates antioxidant enzyme activity and has shown effects on gene expression patterns associated with aging in animal models.
Dosing Research
Research protocols commonly use 5-10 mg administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly daily for 10-20 day cycles, repeated 2-3 times per year. Some protocols specify 5 mg every other day for 20 days. Long-term intermittent cycling is the prevailing approach in the limited available literature.
Side Effects & Risks
Reported side effects are minimal in the available literature, with injection site reactions being the most commonly noted. Theoretical concerns exist about telomerase activation in pre-cancerous cells, though animal studies have not shown increased cancer incidence. The limited scope of safety data from predominantly Russian studies warrants caution.
Research Studies
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Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.