Epitalon
Epithalamin — Tetrapeptide Telomerase Activator
Half-life: ~1–2 hours (estimated)
Research Profile
Relative research assessments — educational reference only.
Target Receptors
Critical Research Warning
Primarily studied by a single Russian research group. Limited Western independent replication. Telomerase activation may theoretically promote cancer cell survival.
"A synthetic tetrapeptide derived from the pineal gland peptide Epithalamin. Studied extensively by Vladimir Khavinson for telomerase activation, circadian regulation, and life extension in animal models."
Full Description
Epitalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) is a synthetic tetrapeptide based on the active component of Epithalamin, a natural peptide extract of the bovine pineal gland studied by Vladimir Khavinson's group at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation since the 1970s. Research primarily from Russian groups demonstrates: activation of telomerase in somatic cells (increasing telomere length), normalized circadian rhythm via melatonin secretion regulation, antioxidant activity (reduced lipid peroxidation), and life extension in animal studies (rats: 24% lifespan increase). Limited Western independent replication exists.
Mechanism of Action
Proposed to activate telomerase (hTERT), upregulating telomere maintenance in somatic cells. Regulates pineal melatonin synthesis. Antioxidant via reduced lipid peroxidation and upregulation of Nrf2-related pathways.
Reported Benefits
- • Telomerase activation and telomere maintenance
- • Lifespan extension in animal models (24% in rats)
- • Circadian rhythm normalization and antioxidant effects
Potential Side Effects
- • Mild sleep disturbances during initial dosing
- • Headache reported in some protocols
- • Insufficient human RCT data to characterize side-effect profile
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Epitalon affect telomeres?▼
Is there independent replication of the Epitalon research?▼
For Research Reference Only
Not medical advice. Peptides may be regulated or restricted in your jurisdiction.
References
- 1.Correction: Epitalon increases telomere length in human cell lines through telomerase upregulation or ALT activity. PubMed (2025). Al-Dulaimi S, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41240216/ ↑
- 2.Epitalon increases telomere length in human cell lines through telomerase upregulation or ALT activity. PubMed (2025). Al-Dulaimi S, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40908429/ ↑
- 3.The Antioxidant Tetrapeptide Epitalon Enhances Delayed Wound Healing in an in Vitro Model of Diabetic Retinopathy. PubMed (2025). Gatta M, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40493162/ ↑
- 4.Overview of Epitalon-Highly Bioactive Pineal Tetrapeptide with Promising Properties. PubMed (2025). Araj SK, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40141333/ ↑
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