What Is Epitalon?
Epitalon is a short peptide studied in telomere research supplied by Peptegrity for research and educational purposes. This page provides a factual educational overview of Epitalon, including its classification, biological target, research background, terminology and published study context. It is not a product page and does not provide dosing instructions, treatment recommendations or personal-use guidance.
Type of compound
Epitalon, also known as Epithalon, is a synthetic tetrapeptide analogue of the naturally occurring polypeptide epithalamin, which is extracted from the pineal gland. It is classified as a geroprotective peptide candidate investigated primarily for its interaction with telomere length regulation [1][5].
Biological target and mechanism
Research indicates that Epitalon may modulate telomerase activity, which is an enzyme responsible for the maintenance of telomeres at the end of chromosomes [1][4]. By potentially influencing the expression of telomerase, the peptide is studied for its ability to affect telomere elongation in various human somatic cell lines [1][4].
Research background
Epitalon was developed based on studies of pineal gland extracts and their role in physiological aging processes [5]. Investigations have focused on its potential to influence biological markers of cellular aging and tissue homeostasis [1][2][3].
Current research and development status
Epitalon is currently an investigational research compound and is not approved by the FDA, TGA, or any other regulatory health authority for human therapeutic use. All current applications are restricted to laboratory, in vitro, or animal model research settings.
Published research context
Published literature investigates the peptide's effects on telomere dynamics [1][4], the structural integrity of ocular tissues such as the retina [2], and metabolic absorption processes in the gastrointestinal tract [3]. Ongoing research continues to characterize the broader biological profile of this pineal-regulating peptide [5].
Relevant terminology
Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences at the ends of chromosomes that shorten during cell division, often linked to cellular senescence. Telomerase is the enzyme that aids in the maintenance of these structures, and geroprotective refers to substances under investigation for their potential to slow or modulate the biological aging process.
Storage and handling terminology
Research peptides are typically supplied as lyophilized powders that require storage at controlled temperatures, often at -20°C or below, to maintain structural integrity. Handling should occur in a sterile laboratory environment using appropriate protective equipment, and the compound should be reconstituted using recommended solvents shortly before experimental use.
Testing and Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document issued by a laboratory that details the results of quality control tests for a specific batch of a chemical compound. For research peptides, a COA generally includes purity assessments via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and molecular weight verification through Mass Spectrometry (MS).
Regulatory status
Epitalon is categorized as a research chemical intended strictly for scientific inquiry and laboratory experimentation. It is not approved for human consumption, clinical application, or use as a dietary supplement by any regulatory agency globally.
This page is for research and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice, dosing instructions, or treatment recommendations, and does not represent any product as approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Compounds described here may be investigational or unapproved medicines; regulatory status is summarised for information only.
Frequently asked questions
What is Epitalon?
Epitalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide designed to mimic the effects of the pineal-derived peptide epithalamin, which is studied for its potential influence on telomere maintenance and cellular aging markers [1][5].
How is Epitalon classified?
Epitalon is classified as a synthetic research peptide and is often referred to as a geroprotective agent within experimental contexts [1][5].
What is the regulatory status of Epitalon?
Epitalon is an investigational compound not approved for human use by any national health authority. Its use is limited to laboratory research and scientific study.
What does current research indicate regarding telomere length?
Studies have investigated the potential of Epitalon to upregulate telomerase activity, which may contribute to the maintenance or elongation of telomeres in human somatic cell lines [1][4].
References
- 1.Epithalon peptide induces telomerase activity and telomere elongation in human somatic cellsPubMed
- 2.Pineal-regulating tetrapeptide epitalon improves eye retina condition in retinitis pigmentosaPubMed
- 3.Effect of Vilon and Epithalon on glucose and glycine absorption in various regions of small intestine in aged ratsPubMed
- 4.Epitalon increases telomere length in human cell lines through telomerase upregulation or ALT activityPubMed
- 5.Overview of Epitalon-Highly Bioactive Pineal Tetrapeptide with Promising PropertiesPubMed
