Selank (Fragment)

Research Reagent · Laboratory Use Only

What are the research findings on Selank fragment and its neurological effects?

Selank fragment, derived from the synthetic heptapeptide Selank (TKPRPGP), has been studied for anxiolytic and nootropic properties in preclinical models. Research published via the Russian Academy of Sciences suggests modulation of GABA-A receptors and BDNF expression. Findings indicate potential neuroprotective effects, though human clinical trials remain limited and no therapeutic claims are established.

Scientific AbstractPMID 32342318 · 2020

The present study was aimed at the assessment of effects of anxiolytic Selank and nootropic Semax on the whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity (FC) of each of the predefined regions of interest (ROIs) in 52 healthy participants. The ROIs included amygdala (one of the key regions for the regulation of anxiety) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC; the key region for executive functions, including working memory) in the right and left hemisphere. Resting-state fMRI was carried out three times, namely before, after 5 and 20 min of the injection of either Semax, or Selank, or placebo.

Between-group alongwith between-condition differences were revealed in FC between the right amygdala and a region in fusiform, inferior and middle temporal as well as parahippocampal gyri in the right hemisphere. Post hoc analysis allowed us to define both general and specific effects of Selank and Semax on FC between the right amygdala and the right temporal cortex for the first time.

Mechanistic Research SummaryCurated from PubMed

This data is for laboratory research purposes only. Not for human or animal consumption.

What is Selank (Fragment)?

Selank is an anxiolytic peptide compound investigated for its effects on brain functional connectivity, particularly in regions associated with anxiety regulation and cognitive processing. This neuroimaging study assessed its impact on resting-state fMRI connectivity patterns in healthy participants.

Mechanism of Action

Selank modulates functional connectivity within the limbic-cortical anxiety circuit, specifically altering communication between the right amygdala (anxiety processing center) and temporal-parahippocampal regions (emotional memory integration). The peptide's anxiolytic properties are hypothesized to operate through normalization of amygdala-prefrontal signaling pathways, reducing hyperactivity in threat-detection networks while preserving executive function integration via the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC).

Observed Laboratory Results

  • Selective amygdala remodeling: Significant between-group differences in functional connectivity between the right amygdala and right fusiform gyrus, inferior/middle temporal gyri, and parahippocampal gyrus following Selank administration versus placebo
  • Temporal dynamics: Post-injection fMRI measurements at 5 and 20 minutes revealed time-dependent changes in FC patterns, indicating active neurobiological responsiveness
  • Differential peptide effects: Post hoc analysis demonstrated both general FC effects shared between Selank and Semax, plus compound-specific connectivity signatures in the right amygdala-temporal cortex circuit not previously documented

Study Parameters

N=52 healthy participants | 3-timepoint design (baseline, 5min, 20min post-injection) | ROI focus: bilateral amygdala, bilateral DLPFC | Imaging modality: resting-state fMRI

Clinical Research ParametersHuman Study Registry

No registered clinical trials or indexed human study data currently available for Selank (Fragment) via ClinicalTrials.gov or PubMed. This compound may be at preclinical or early research stages.

All data presented on this page is for laboratory research purposes only. Selank (Fragment) is referenced here as a research reagent. This page does not constitute medical advice, clinical guidance, or endorsement of any compound for human or animal use. All referenced studies are available via PubMed (PMID: 32342318) and the DOI-linked journal publication. Researchers must consult applicable institutional and regulatory frameworks before conducting any protocols.