Overview
Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide with the sequence Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly (AEDG), developed as a short-peptide analog of epithalamin, a peptide preparation originally isolated from the pineal gland. It belongs to the Khavinson family of short peptide bioregulators, a class of di- to tetrapeptides studied as putative gene-regulatory molecules. The sequence does not correspond to a single larger protein; it is produced synthetically for laboratory research use. It is frequently used as a reference peptide in cellular models of replicative senescence and pineal signaling.
Mechanism as studied
The research literature characterizes Epithalon principally through transcriptional upregulation of the catalytic telomerase subunit hTERT, with associated telomere elongation reported in cultured human somatic cells. Owing to its small size, the peptide is described as penetrating cellular and nuclear membranes, and models propose direct interaction with promoter DNA and modulation of gene expression. Separate work characterizes effects on the pineal axis, including modulation of melatonin synthesis and expression of circadian clock genes. Reported activity is documented at the molecular and cellular level.
Research context
Contexts in which this compound appears in the in-vitro and preclinical research literature:
- Cultured human fibroblast models: hTERT transcription and telomere-length endpoints across serial passage.
- Cellular senescence assays examining the proliferative lifespan of somatic cell lines.
- Pineal and hypothalamic preparations studying melatonin-synthesis and circadian gene expression.
- Preclinical rodent studies referenced in the literature on antioxidant-enzyme and neuroendocrine endpoints.
- Comparative studies within the Khavinson short-peptide class of Glu-Asp-containing bioregulators.
Handling & storage
Supplied as a lyophilized powder for laboratory reconstitution. Typically reconstituted with bacteriostatic water to the working concentration required by the assay, with diluent volume chosen to reach the target mg/mL. Swirl gently to dissolve rather than vortexing, prepare in a clean field, and aliquot to minimize freeze–thaw cycles.
Store the sealed lyophilized vial at −20 °C protected from light, where it is stable long-term. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated at 2–8 °C and minimize repeated freeze–thaw.
Certificates of analysis
Independent and in-house certificates published for this compound. Each reports identity and HPLC purity for the tested lot.
Order Epithalon
Lot-traceable, certificate-backed, and shipped cold-chain from the US.
For research use only
This guide is reference material for qualified researchers. The compound is an analytical-grade reference material supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and development — not a drug, supplement, or medical device, and not for human or animal consumption or any therapeutic, clinical, or diagnostic use. No medical claims are made or implied.
