What Is Selank?
Selank (TP-7) is a synthetic analogue of the endogenous immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), extended with the sequence Gly-Gly-Pro to improve stability and CNS penetrance. It was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics (Russian Academy of Sciences) and registered in Russia and Ukraine as an anti-anxiety agent.
Mechanism of Action
Selank's mechanism is multifaceted and not fully elucidated, but current research points to:
- GABA-A modulation — produces anxiolytic effects via benzodiazepine receptor interaction, without dependence liability or sedation
- BDNF upregulation — increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor, supporting synaptic plasticity and memory consolidation
- Serotonin/dopamine balance — modulates monoaminergic transmission, contributing to mood stabilisation
- Immune modulation — derived from tuftsin, it modulates IL-6, TNF-α, and interferon expression, with implications for neuroinflammation
- GABA transaminase inhibition — may elevate endogenous GABA levels
Research Findings
- Clinical trials (Russia/Ukraine, n>1,000): Significant reduction in Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores with no cognitive impairment or sedation
- Memory and learning: Preclinical rodent studies show improved maze performance and long-term potentiation
- Anti-viral potential: Selank has demonstrated upregulation of interferon-α/β in cell culture models
- No physical dependence: Abrupt cessation studies show no withdrawal phenomena — a significant advantage over benzodiazepines
Research Notes
Selank is typically studied as an intranasal or subcutaneous preparation. Lyophilised powder should be stored at −20°C.
Related compounds: Semax, PT-141.