Epitalon

Origin and Structure of Epitalon

Epitalon (also known as Epithalon or Epithalone) is a synthetic tetrapeptide with the sequence Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly (AEDG), developed as an analog of epithalamine, a peptide extract isolated from bovine pineal gland. The peptide was designed by Prof. Vladimir Khavinson's team at the Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology in Saint Petersburg as part of a peptide bioregulator research program.

With a molecular weight of ~390.35 Da, Epitalon is among the smallest biologically active peptides described in the literature. The AEDG sequence consists exclusively of four L-amino acids without post-translational modifications. Compared to epithalamine, which is a heterogeneous peptide mixture, Epitalon is a chemically defined compound with reproducible physicochemical properties.

Mechanism of Action

The primary area of research interest is Epitalon's effect on telomerase activity. In experiments on human fibroblasts and CD8+ lymphocytes, the AEDG peptide was shown to induce expression of the catalytic subunit of telomerase (hTERT). The proposed mechanism involves regulation of hTERT gene expression at the transcriptional level, although the detailed signaling pathways have not been fully characterized.

A second research direction is Epitalon's interaction with pineal gland function. In aged rat models, modulation of melatonin production was observed following exposure to the AEDG peptide. These results align with the hypothesis that short regulatory peptides can influence neuroendocrine functions in animal models.

Most data comes from in vitro studies on cell cultures and experiments on rodent models. The molecular mechanisms remain a subject of active investigation.

Research Overview

Khavinson's peptide bioregulator research

The foundational work is Khavinson's 2002 monograph, published as a special edition of Neuroendocrinology Letters ^[1]. The author summarized a long-term research program encompassing characterization of peptides isolated from various tissues, including the pineal gland.

Telomerase activation in vitro

Khavinson, Bondarev, and Butyugov (2003) published in Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine (135(6):590-592) results of experiments in which the AEDG peptide induced telomerase activity and telomere elongation in human fibroblasts and CD8+ lymphocytes ^[2]. An increase in hTERT expression correlating with increased telomeric fragment length was demonstrated.

Animal model studies

Anisimov, Khavinson, et al. (2002) investigated the effect of Epitalon on a 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colon carcinogenesis model in rats. The paper in Cancer Letters (183(1):1-8) described the peptide's inhibitory effect on tumor development in this experimental model ^[3].

Structural Features

Epitalon is a tetrapeptide with a mass of just ~390 Da — one of the shortest peptides in our catalog:

• AEDG sequence — four amino acids: Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly, all in natural L-configuration
• Low molecular weight — 390 Da enables good bioavailability and rapid dissolution
• No modifications — the peptide contains no D-amino acids, protecting groups, or disulfide bridges
• Negative charge — Glu and Asp residues give the peptide a net charge of -2 at physiological pH, influencing interactions with target proteins

Intended Use

This product is a chemical raw material intended exclusively for in vitro research, scientific, and analytical applications. It is not intended for human or veterinary use, including for diagnostic, therapeutic, prophylactic, or nutritional purposes.

Handling

• Work in laboratory conditions consistent with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) principles.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment: nitrile gloves, safety goggles, lab coat.
• Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin or mucous membranes.
• Work in a well-ventilated area.

Regulatory Classification

This product is not classified as a hazardous substance under CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. It is offered as a chemical reagent within the framework of applicable European Union chemical substances regulations (REACH, CLP). It does not constitute a medicinal product, dietary supplement, medical device, or cosmetic within the meaning of applicable laws.

Disposal

Unused material should be disposed of in accordance with local regulations on chemical waste. Under laboratory conditions: neutralize and dispose with laboratory waste streams. Do not discharge into sewage systems.

Regulatory Information

This product is offered in accordance with applicable European Union regulations on chemical substances (REACH, CLP) and Polish law governing the trade of chemical reagents and research materials. Full terms of sale and product classification are set out in the Terms of Service.

By placing an order, the Customer confirms having read the above information and accepts the provisions of the Terms.

Safety Contact

For questions regarding handling or regulatory information: [email protected].