Selank Research

Selank’s Impact on Anxiety and GABA-Related Genes

Studies have explored Selank’s influence on genes linked to the GABA neurotransmitter system. Dr. Anastasiya Volkova of the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia has conducted research demonstrating that TP7 exhibits strong antianxiety and neuroprotective effects. Its clinical properties are comparable to traditional antianxiety medications like benzodiazepines, which function as allosteric modulators of GABAA receptors, amplifying GABA’s inhibitory effects. Selank has been shown to reduce anxiety, enhance mood, alleviate stress, and improve memory and learning. Interestingly, similar to benzodiazepines, low doses of TP7 can induce a calming effect. However, unlike benzodiazepines, TP7 does not appear to cause dependency, withdrawal symptoms, or memory impairment.

Gene Modulation and GABA Signaling

Research in rats suggests that Selank significantly affects genes associated with GABA signaling. Among 84 GABA-related genes, seven undergo substantial modulation in response to Selank, while 45 exhibit changes in expression levels. Overall, TP7 influences 52 genes linked to GABA signaling. These findings suggest that Selank directly alters gene expression in nerve cells, likely by modifying the affinity of GABA receptors for GABA. This receptor affinity change could explain why Selank demonstrates synergy with benzodiazepines and other GABA receptor agonists.

Selank and Benzodiazepines for Anxiety Treatment

Animal studies indicate that Selank and benzodiazepines have similar effects on anxiety, particularly in cases of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). While Selank may provide a slight advantage in reducing heightened anxiety levels, a combination of both treatments appears to be the most effective strategy for managing unpredictable chronic mild stress.

Selank’s Effect on GABA Receptors and Enkephalin Degradation

Selank’s influence on GABA receptors may be partially linked to its role in enkephalin degradation. Individuals with anxiety and phobic disorders often exhibit increased enkephalinase activity, leading to shorter half-lives of enkephalins. By inhibiting enkephalinase, Selank may help regulate this enzymatic pathway, preserving the body’s natural anxiolytic peptides. Studies in anxiety-prone mice suggest that Selank’s ability to prevent enkephalin breakdown contributes to its anxiolytic effects.

Selank’s Immune-Modulating Properties in Anxiety Treatment

Research on individuals with depression indicates that Selank can suppress the gene responsible for producing the inflammatory cytokine IL-6, particularly in those with depression-related anxiety-asthenic disorders. Unlike benzodiazepines, Selank has shown potential in alleviating asthenic symptoms, such as fatigue and pain. Its impact on the immune system is multifaceted, involving the regulation of multiple genes tied to inflammatory processes.

Selank’s Role in Memory and Learning

There is a well-established connection between anxiety and cognitive function, where heightened anxiety often impairs memory and learning. Selank not only counteracts the cognitive decline associated with anxiety but also directly enhances cognitive function. Studies in rats suggest that Selank stabilizes memory traces, improving memory storage regardless of anxiety levels. This effect may be due to its influence on gene expression in the hippocampus, potentially altering neuronal function to support memory formation and retrieval.

Selank and Pain Management

Selank may aid in pain relief by reducing the degradation of enkephalins, natural peptides that bind to opioid receptors and modulate pain and stress responses. By preserving enkephalin levels in the brain, Selank may help mitigate stress-related effects on memory, learning, and concentration. Additionally, Selank exhibits minimal side effects and high bioavailability in mice. However, dosages in mice do not directly translate to human use. Selank is strictly intended for research purposes and should only be used by licensed researchers.