Selank (Anxiolytic Peptide)

Selank is a 7-amino acid synthetic analog of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin, extended with a Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal sequence that enhances metabolic stability. In preclinical models, Selank has been studied for anxiolytic-like effects that occur without the sedation or cognitive impairment characteristic of GABAergic compounds. Mechanistically, it does not bind GABA receptors, instead modulating IL-6 cytokine levels and upregulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. Selank has received regulatory approval in Russia as a research tool for anxiety-related investigations, distinguishing it from classical benzodiazepine-class compounds through its entirely distinct mechanism of action.

Key Research Findings:

• Rodent studies showed significant anxiolytic-like behavioral effects in elevated plus maze and open field tests without sedation or motor impairment
• In vitro research demonstrated modulation of IL-6 levels and upregulation of BDNF expression in neuronal cell cultures
• Preclinical pharmacology confirmed no binding affinity at GABA-A or GABA-B receptor sites, establishing a non-GABAergic mechanism
• Immunomodulation studies in animal models showed enhanced tuftsin-like phagocytic activity alongside anxiolytic effects

For laboratory and research use only.