Epithalon Research Guide: Telomerase & Longevity
Epithalon is one of the most studied peptides in longevity research. This synthetic tetrapeptide, derived from pineal gland extracts, is believed to activate telomerase and influence the biological aging process at the cellular level.
Epithalon (also spelled Epitalon or referred to as AEDG peptide) is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring polypeptide Epithalamin, extracted from the pineal gland. Developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson over 35 years of research, Epithalon has become a cornerstone of longevity peptide research.
This guide covers Epithalon's molecular profile, proposed mechanisms, research applications, and practical considerations for laboratory use.
Molecular Profile
Basic Information
| Full Name | Epithalon (Epitalon, AEDG) |
| Sequence | Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly (AEDG) |
| Molecular Weight | ~390.35 Da |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₄H₂₂N₄O₉ |
| Peptide Length | Tetrapeptide (4 amino acids) |
Physical Properties
| Appearance | White powder |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Storage | -20°C lyophilized |
| Stability | 2+ years at -20°C |
Origin & Development
Epithalon was developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology in Russia. It's a synthetic version of Epithalamin, a polypeptide isolated from bovine pineal glands. Khavinson's research on bioregulatory peptides spans over 35 years and includes extensive clinical studies in Russia.
Proposed Mechanisms
Epithalon's potential anti-aging effects are believed to stem from several mechanisms:
Telomerase Activation
The primary proposed mechanism of Epithalon involves activation of telomerase, the enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length. Key points:
- • Telomeres shorten with each cell division (Hayflick limit)
- • Telomerase adds telomeric repeats to chromosome ends
- • Research suggests Epithalon may increase telomerase activity in cells
- • Longer telomeres are associated with increased cellular lifespan
Pineal Gland & Melatonin
As a peptide derived from pineal gland extracts, Epithalon may influence pineal function and melatonin production. Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant and regulator of circadian rhythms, both important factors in aging research.
Antioxidant Effects
Some research suggests Epithalon may have antioxidant properties, potentially through direct effects and/or through increasing melatonin production. Oxidative stress is a major factor in cellular aging.
Gene Expression
Khavinson's research suggests Epithalon may influence gene expression patterns, potentially affecting cellular differentiation, proliferation, and protein synthesis—all factors in the aging process.
Research Applications
Epithalon is studied across several research domains:
Longevity Research
- • Telomere length studies
- • Cellular senescence models
- • Lifespan extension research
- • Biomarker of aging studies
Circadian Research
- • Melatonin production studies
- • Sleep cycle research
- • Pineal gland function
- • Chronobiology studies
Cell Biology
- • Telomerase activation assays
- • Cell proliferation studies
- • Gene expression analysis
- • Fibroblast research
Comparative Studies
- • Comparison with other telomerase activators
- • Epithalamin vs. Epithalon studies
- • Peptide combination research
Notable Research
- • Khavinson VK. "Peptides and Ageing." Neuroendocrinology Letters. 2002
- • Khavinson VK, et al. "Effect of Epithalon on telomerase activity and telomere length." Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine. 2003
- • Anisimov VN, Khavinson VK. "Peptide bioregulation of aging: results and prospects." Biogerontology. 2010
Research Handling Guidelines
Reconstitution Protocol
- 1. Equilibration: Allow vial to reach room temperature (15-20 min)
- 2. Solvent: Use bacteriostatic water or sterile water
- 3. Reconstitution: Add 1-2 mL solvent slowly down vial wall
- 4. Mixing: Gentle swirling—Epithalon dissolves readily
- 5. Storage: Refrigerate at 2-8°C, use within 2-3 weeks
Stability Notes
- • Protect from light—store in original vial or amber container
- • Lyophilized form is highly stable at -20°C
- • Reconstituted solutions are less stable—use within 2-3 weeks
- • Aliquot if storing reconstituted peptide long-term
Combination Research
Epithalon is sometimes studied in combination with other longevity-related compounds:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Epithalon?
A synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) derived from Epithalamin, a polypeptide extracted from the pineal gland. Developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson.
How does Epithalon work?
Epithalon is believed to activate telomerase, the enzyme that maintains telomere length. It may also influence melatonin production and have antioxidant effects.
What is telomerase?
An enzyme that adds telomeric DNA repeats to chromosome ends. Telomere shortening is associated with aging; telomerase activity may counteract this process.
How should Epithalon be stored?
Lyophilized: -20°C for long-term stability. Reconstituted: 2-8°C, use within 2-3 weeks. Protect from light.
Is Epithalon the same as Epithalamin?
No. Epithalamin is the natural polypeptide extract from pineal glands. Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide representing the active sequence of Epithalamin.
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