N-Acetyl Selank Amidate is a purportedly improved version of the nootropic and anxiolytic peptide Selank, a heptapeptide composed of the tetrapeptide tuftsin at the N-terminus and a Pro-Gly-Pro fragment at the C-terminus of the amino acid chain [1].
The unique composition of Selank and N-Acetyl Selank Amidate enable either iteration to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) when administered intranasally or via injections [2].
N-Acetyl Selank Amidate is further acetylated and amidated for improved stability while preserving the potential effects of Selank.
Since its modified structure is aimed at changing the pharmacokinetics rather than pharmacodynamics of the Selank peptide, N-Acetyl Selank Amidate is believed to offer benefits such as reduced stress and improved cognition that are comparable or even greater than those of Selank.
Below we outline the mechanisms behind the benefits observed with Selank and which potentially translate to N-Acetyl Selank Amidate:
- Selank upregulates gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) signaling in the central nervous system (CNS), reducing neuronal excitability and alleviating anxiety [2].
- Selank inhibits the enzymes that break down enkephalins, which are ligands for opioid receptors. Their upregulation may have potential benefits in mood and stress management [3, 4, 5].
- Selank stimulates serotonin metabolism, contributing to mood regulation and emotional well-being [6].
- Selank has potential effects on neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which may amplify its anxiolytic and nootropic effects [7].
- The peptide may also enhance the expression of a neurotrophic factor in the CNS called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), promoting neuronal survival and resilience against stress [8].
Currently, N-Acetyl Selank Amidate is available strictly for laboratory research purposes.