Dihexa
A small-molecule hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) analog studied for cognitive enhancement, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenic signalling in research models.
⏱ Half-Life
Moderate–Long duration profile
Dihexa demonstrates a moderate–long half-life characteristic in research literature, shaping how observation windows and study timelines are typically structured.
⚡ Onset Characteristics
Gradual measurable response
Onset is observed as gradual — a property that influences how researchers structure comparative studies versus other compounds in the cognitive research category.
🧠 Key Notes
What makes it distinct
- 01Derived from angiogenin and HGF signalling pathways
- 02Investigated for BDNF-independent neurogenic effects
- 03Active via oral administration in research models
🧬 Mechanism of Action
How it works
Dihexa is a small-molecule peptide derived from the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) binding domain. It acts as a potent HGF mimic, binding the c-Met receptor with high affinity to drive neurogenic and angiogenic signalling. In the central nervous system, HGF/c-Met activation promotes dendritic arborisation, synaptogenesis, and neuroprotection independent of BDNF/TrkB pathways. Dihexa crosses the blood-brain barrier after oral administration and has shown remarkable potency — reportedly 7–10 orders of magnitude more effective than native HGF in certain assays. Its mechanism centres on enhancing synaptic connectivity and neural repair rather than simple neurotransmitter modulation.
✨ Documented Benefits
What the research shows it supports
🔍 Research Insights
What the literature shows
Reported to be 7–10 orders of magnitude more potent than native HGF in receptor-binding assays.
Acts via c-Met receptor activation, producing neurogenic effects independent of BDNF/TrkB signalling.
Oral bioavailability and blood-brain barrier penetration distinguish it from most peptide nootropics.
🧪 Typical Research Use Cases
Where it appears in study design
Cognitive enhancement and memory research models.
Neurodegenerative disease and synaptic repair studies.
Comparative nootropic research vs BDNF-mimetic peptides.
📚 References
Peer-reviewed literature
Primary research sources cited on this profile. All links resolve to PubMed or the publishing journal.
- [01]
Wright, J. W., & Harding, J. W. (2015). The Brain Hepatocyte Growth Factor/c-Met Receptor System: A New Target for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 45(4), 985–1000.
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease ↗ - [02]
Uribe, P. M. et al. (2015). Hepatocyte growth factor mimetic protects lateral line hair cells from aminoglycoside exposure. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 9, 3.
Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience ↗ - [03]
Wright, J. W., Kawas, L. H., & Harding, J. W. (2015). The development of small molecule angiotensin IV analogs to treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Progress in Neurobiology, 125, 26–46.
Progress in Neurobiology ↗ - [04]
Wells, R. G. et al. (2024). Effects of an Angiotensin IV Analog on 3-Nitropropionic Acid-Induced Huntington's Disease-Like Symptoms in Rats. Journal of Huntington's Disease, 13(1), 55–66.
Journal of Huntington's Disease ↗
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
Educational research summary only
This profile summarises published research on Dihexa. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it is not intended to promote human use, self-administration, or the substitution of professional healthcare. Discuss any health decision with a licensed clinician.
Continue Exploring
Also explore: Semax, Selank, DSIP