Selank — Anxiolytic neuropeptide — TBMR analogue / tuftsin derivative (Russian Federation registered drug)
Selank is a heptapeptide analogue of tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics (Russian Academy of Sciences). It exerts anxiolytic effects without the sedation, dependence, or withdrawal associated with benzodiazepines. Primary mechanisms: (1) increases GABA-A receptor sensitivity without direct binding — augments inhibitory tone; (2) upregulates BDNF, NGF, and GDNF in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex; (3) modulates enkephalin degradation (inhibits enkephalinase) to prolong endogenous opioid anxiolysis; (4) anti-inflammatory via reduction of IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Intranasal administration achieves CNS bioavailability via olfactory nerve transport, bypassing blood-brain barrier.
Overview
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Compound Class
Anxiolytic neuropeptide — TBMR analogue / tuftsin derivative (Russian Federation registered drug)
Mechanism of Action
Selank is a heptapeptide analogue of tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics (Russian Academy of Sciences). It exerts anxiolytic effects without the sedation, dependence, or withdrawal associated with benzodiazepines. Primary mechanisms: (1) increases GABA-A receptor sensitivity without direct binding — augments inhibitory tone; (2) upregulates BDNF, NGF, and GDNF in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex; (3) modulates enkephalin degradation (inhibits enkephalinase) to prolong endogenous opioid anxiolysis; (4) anti-inflammatory via reduction of IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Intranasal administration achieves CNS bioavailability via olfactory nerve transport, bypassing blood-brain barrier.
Regulatory Status
NOT FDA approved. Not EMA approved. Registered as Rx drug in the Russian Federation. Sold as research peptide in the US — unregulated grey market.
Evidence Level
C — Russian Phase 2/3 RCTs show significant anxiolytic effect (PMID: 17017476, 9479717); no Western Phase 3 data; no FDA/EMA approval. Registered as a pharmaceutical drug in Russia for anxiety and asthenic conditions.