Overview
Epitalon (Epithalon, Epithalone) is a synthetic tetrapeptide with the sequence Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly, derived from the natural pineal gland polypeptide preparation Epithalamin. It was developed by Vladimir Khavinson at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology in Russia, where it has been studied for over four decades in both cellular and animal longevity research. Epitalon is one of the most researched bioregulator peptides in the field of geroscience.
The principal mechanism of interest is epitalon's ability to stimulate telomerase activity in somatic cells, thereby potentially elongating telomere length. Telomere shortening is a key hallmark of cellular aging, and telomerase — the enzyme that maintains telomere length — is typically silenced in most somatic cells. Research in cell culture and animal models has shown that epitalon can upregulate telomerase expression, increase antioxidant enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), and modulate melatonin and cortisol circadian rhythms through actions on the pineal gland.
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulation of telomerase (hTERT) expression in normal human somatic cells, resulting in telomere lengthening in research models
- Upregulation of antioxidant defense enzymes — SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase — reducing markers of oxidative stress
- Regulation of pineal gland melatonin synthesis and restoration of circadian rhythm amplitude in aged research subjects
- Inhibition of spontaneous and induced carcinogenesis observed in long-term rat studies
- Potential normalization of neuroendocrine and immune function through hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis modulation
Specifications
| Full Name | Epitalon (Epithalon) |
| Sequence | Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly |
| Formula | C₁₄H₂₂N₄O₁₀ |
| MW | 390.35 Da |
| CAS | 307297-39-8 |
| Purity | ≥98% HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Storage (lyophilized) | −20°C |
| Storage (reconstituted) | 2–8°C, use within 21 days |
| Solubility | Sterile or bacteriostatic water |
Reconstitution
Reconstitute with sterile or bacteriostatic water. Add solvent slowly and gently swirl to dissolve. Store at 2–8°C and use within 21 days. Do not freeze reconstituted solution.
Quality Assurance
Every batch undergoes third-party HPLC testing to verify ≥98% purity. Mass spectrometry confirms molecular identity. COA included with every order.
Research Use Only. Epitalon is sold exclusively for in vitro research and laboratory use. It is not approved for human consumption, veterinary use, or any clinical application. This product is not a drug, food, or cosmetic and must not be misbranded, misused, or mislabeled as such.