P21

Preclinical Research

P21 / P021

A synthetic peptide derived from the neurotrophic factor CNTF, studied preclinically for neurogenesis and cognitive effects.

Subcutaneous injectionIntranasalCognitiveNeurological

Dose

0.1 mg/kg

Route

Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal

Cycle

21-28 days

Storage

Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F), protected from light

What is P21?

P21 is a synthetic 15-amino acid peptide developed as a small-molecule mimetic of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). CNTF is a neurotrophic factor involved in the survival and differentiation of various neuronal cell types. P21 specifically targets the CNTF receptor alpha (CNTFRα) and has been investigated for its potential neuroprotective and neurogenic properties. Preclinical research has explored its role in stimulating neurogenesis, improving cognitive function, and mitigating neurodegenerative processes in animal models of various neurological conditions. Its smaller size compared to CNTF allows for easier passage across biological barriers, including the blood-brain barrier, making it an interesting candidate for CNS-related research.

Key Benefits

  • Neurogenesis research
  • BDNF pathway activity (preclinical)

🐾 Griffin Says...

P21 is a Cerebrolysin-derived neurogenic peptide with encouraging rodent data on hippocampal neurogenesis and cognition. Human data does not meaningfully exist yet, so the nootropic claims are borrowed from mouse studies. Promising direction, very early stage.

Molecular Information

Molecular weight

1732.06 g/mol

Length

15 amino acids

Type

Synthetic Peptide

Amino acid sequence

Phe-Cys-Ala-Ala-Phe-Cys-Tyr-Ala-Thr-Val-Arg-Ala-Leu-Val-Gln

P21 is a synthetic peptide derived from the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) molecule, specifically from exon 2 and part of exon 3 of the human CNTF gene. It's designed to mimic the neurotrophic activity of CNTF.

Pharmacokinetics

Time to peak

1 hour (intravenous, rat)

Half-life

1.5 h

Time to clear

4-6 hours (intravenous, rat)

DoseEstimated plasma concentration9 h

Specific pharmacokinetic data for P21 is largely from preclinical studies, particularly in rodent models. For instance, Wang et al. (2007) reported on its pharmacokinetics in rats following intravenous administration.

Research Indications

  • Stimulation of Neural Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation

    Animal and in-vitro studies have demonstrated that P21 can promote the proliferation of neural stem cells and their differentiation into mature neurons and glial cells, particularly in the hippocampus and subventricular zone. (Evidence: Animal/in-vitro only)

  • Neurotrophic Support

    P21 has shown the ability to enhance the survival of existing neurons and support the growth of new neurites in various neuronal cultures and animal models. (Evidence: Animal/in-vitro only)

Research Protocols

GoalDoseFrequencyRoute
Investigate Neurogenesis (Subcutaneous)0.1 mg/kgOnce dailySubcutaneous injection
Cognitive Function Research (Subcutaneous)0.1 mg/kgOnce dailySubcutaneous injection
Neuroprotection Studies (Subcutaneous)0.05-0.1 mg/kgOnce dailySubcutaneous injection
Acute Administration for Signaling Pathway Analysis (Intraperitoneal/Intravenous)0.1-0.2 mg/kgSingle dose or short course (2-3 days)Intraperitoneal or Intravenous injection
Intranasal Administration for CNS Targeting0.01-0.05 mg/kg (estimated, based on preclinical studies of similar peptides)Once daily or twice dailyIntranasal

Timing may vary based on specific research objectives. Some protocols involve acute administration, while others utilize chronic daily dosing. Always adhere to established experimental designs.

Peptide Interactions

  • Other Neurotrophic Factors/Mimetics

    Co-administration with other compounds designed to enhance neurogenesis or provide neurotrophic support may lead to additive or synergistic effects, but also potentially increased side effects. Specific research is needed.

    Monitor Combination
  • Cholinergic Agents

    Given P21's impact on cognitive function, combining with compounds affecting cholinergic systems (e.g., acetylcholinesterase inhibitors) could alter overall cognitive outcomes. Close monitoring in research is advised.

    Monitor Combination
  • Anti-inflammatory Drugs

    No direct antagonistic interactions are reported. In some neurodegenerative models, P21's neuroprotective effects might complement anti-inflammatory strategies. Specific research designs should consider this.

    Compatible
  • CNS Depressants/Stimulants

    While P21's effects are generally subtle and chronic, interactions with compounds that acutely alter CNS activity could potentially mask or confound research outcomes. Observe for unexpected behavioral changes.

    Use Caution
  • CNTF (Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor)

    As P21 is a mimetic of CNTF, co-administration could lead to an overexpression of CNTF pathway activity. Research protocols should carefully consider the desired level of receptor activation.

    Monitor Combination

How to Reconstitute

  1. 1Prepare a sterile workspace and ensure all materials (peptide vial, bacteriostatic water, sterile syringes, and needles) are readily available.
  2. 2Carefully remove the protective cap from the lyophilized peptide vial to expose the rubber stopper.
  3. 3Swab the rubber stopper of the peptide vial and the bacteriostatic water vial with an alcohol wipe and allow them to air dry.
  4. 4Using a sterile syringe, draw the desired amount of bacteriostatic water (typically 1-2 mL per vial, depending on desired concentration) from its vial.
  5. 5Slowly inject the bacteriostatic water into the peptide vial, aiming the stream down the side of the glass to avoid directly impinging on the lyophilized powder.
  6. 6Do NOT shake the vial. Gently swirl or roll the vial between your palms for several minutes until the powder is completely dissolved and the solution is clear. If solution remains cloudy, gently swirl until clear.
  7. 7Once dissolved, the reconstituted peptide is ready for use according to research protocol. Store the reconstituted solution as directed.

Ensure bacteriostatic water is sterile and free of particulate matter. Avoid shaking the vial vigorously during reconstitution to prevent peptide degradation.

What to Expect

  • Increased neurogenesis in relevant brain regions (animal/in-vitro studies).
  • Improvements in cognitive function, such as learning and memory, observed in animal models.
  • Neuroprotective effects against neuronal damage or apoptosis in preclinical studies.
  • Modulation of signaling pathways associated with neuronal survival and plasticity (e.g., MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt) in cell culture and animal models.
  • No immediate or acute behavioral changes typically observed after administration in animal studies, as effects are generally cumulative.
  • Local site reactions (mild redness or irritation) at the injection site are possible, though typically rare and transient in animal subjects.

Side Effects & Safety

  • P21 is a research chemical and is not approved for human use. All handling should occur in a laboratory setting by trained professionals.
  • Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves and eye protection when handling the peptide.
  • Avoid inhalation of powder, direct contact with skin, and ingestion. In case of exposure, wash thoroughly and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
  • Dispose of all peptide-containing materials, needles, and syringes according to hazardous waste protocols.
  • Monitor animal subjects for any signs of adverse reactions or unexpected behavioral changes throughout the research protocol.
  • Long-term systemic effects in humans are not established. Exercise caution in all experimental designs.

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Peptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.