Epithalon

Epithalon (AEDG peptide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson at the Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology. It is based on Epithalamin, a polypeptide extract from the pineal gland that demonstrated life-extending properties in animal studies. Epithalon represents the active tetrapeptide sequence responsible for these effects.

The primary mechanism of action involves activation of telomerase, the enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length in chromosomes. Telomere shortening is a fundamental mechanism of cellular aging, and telomerase activation can theoretically extend the replicative lifespan of cells. Epithalon has also been shown to regulate melatonin production in the pineal gland, potentially restoring the circadian rhythm disruptions associated with aging.

Research by Khavinson's group and others has demonstrated that Epithalon can increase telomere length in human somatic cells, extend lifespan in animal models (including a 13.3% increase in maximum lifespan in mice), and normalize circadian melatonin rhythms in elderly subjects. Studies have also shown antioxidant effects, tumor suppression, and improvements in retinal function. While much of the research originates from Russian institutions, the findings on telomerase activation have been replicated in cell culture studies internationally.