Selank
A synthetic analog of tuftsin studied for anxiolytic-class cognitive signalling and immunomodulatory research pathways.
⏱ Half-Life
Short duration profile
Selank demonstrates a short half-life characteristic in research literature, shaping how observation windows and study timelines are typically structured.
⚡ Onset Characteristics
Fast measurable response
Onset is observed as fast — a property that influences how researchers structure comparative studies versus other compounds in the cognitive research category.
🧠 Key Notes
What makes it distinct
- 01Frequently paired with Semax in study design
- 02Short systemic exposure window
- 03Studied for non-sedative profile in research models
🧬 Mechanism of Action
How it works
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide based on the natural immunomodulator tuftsin, with a stabilising Pro-Gly-Pro extension. It modulates GABAergic transmission to produce anxiolytic effects without the sedation, dependency, or cognitive blunting characteristic of benzodiazepines. It also influences serotonergic and dopaminergic balance, regulates enkephalin metabolism by inhibiting their breakdown, and demonstrates immunomodulatory action through interleukin balance (notably IL-6 and IFN-γ). The combined neuro-immune profile distinguishes it from purely cognitive peptides.
✨ Documented Benefits
What the research shows it supports
🔍 Research Insights
What the literature shows
Modulates GABAergic and serotonergic pathways without the sedation profile typical of benzodiazepine-class compounds in animal studies.
Shows immunomodulatory activity via interleukin balance, distinguishing it from purely cognitive peptides.
Studied in tandem with Semax as a complementary anxiolytic/cognitive pairing in published Russian neuroscience literature.
🧪 Typical Research Use Cases
Where it appears in study design
Anxiety and stress-response research models.
Immunomodulation and cytokine signalling studies.
Comparative neuropeptide research vs benzodiazepine controls.
📚 References
Peer-reviewed literature
Primary research sources cited on this profile. All links resolve to PubMed or the publishing journal.
- [01]
Kozlovskii, I. I., & Danchev, N. D. (2003). The optimizing action of the synthetic peptide Selank on a conditioned active avoidance reflex in rats. Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology, 33(7), 639–643.
Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology ↗ - [02]
Zozulya, A. A. et al. (2008). Efficacy and possible mechanisms of action of a new peptide anxiolytic Selank in the therapy of generalized anxiety disorders and neurasthenia. Zhurnal Nevrologii i Psikhiatrii, 108(4), 38–48.
Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr ↗ - [03]
Kolomin, T. et al. (2013). The temporary dynamics of inflammation-related genes expression under tuftsin analog Selank action. Molecular Immunology, 54(3-4), 426–431.
Molecular Immunology ↗ - [04]
Volkova, A. et al. (2016). Selank Administration Affects the Expression of Some Genes Involved in GABAergic Neurotransmission. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 7, 31.
Frontiers in Pharmacology ↗
Continue Exploring
Also explore: Semax, PT-141, GHK-Cu