A tetrapeptide derived from the pineal gland that activates telomerase and has demonstrated lifespan extension in multiple animal models.
Epithalon (also spelled Epitalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) derived from Epithalamin, a natural polypeptide extract of the pineal gland. It was developed by the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology under the direction of Professor Vladimir Khavinson, who has published extensively on its effects in aging research. Epithalon is best known for its ability to activate telomerase — the enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length — and has been studied in the context of longevity, cancer prevention, and circadian rhythm regulation. Animal studies have shown life extension of 20–30% in rodents, and human studies (primarily from Russian research groups) have reported improvements in various biomarkers of aging. It also regulates melatonin production and has demonstrated antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties.
* Benefits based on preclinical/animal research unless otherwise noted.
Epithalon’s primary mechanism involves the activation of telomerase (hTERT), the reverse transcriptase enzyme that adds telomeric repeat sequences (TTAGGG) to the ends of chromosomes. Telomere shortening with each cell division is a fundamental mechanism of cellular aging and replicative senescence; by activating telomerase, Epithalon may extend the replicative lifespan of cells. This effect has been demonstrated in human somatic cells in vitro and in animal models in vivo. Epithalon also regulates the expression of genes involved in the cell cycle, apoptosis, and oxidative stress response. In the pineal gland, it stimulates the production of melatonin by upregulating the expression of N-acetyltransferase, the rate-limiting enzyme in melatonin synthesis. Additionally, it modulates the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and has been shown to normalize the age-related decline in cortisol and gonadotropin secretion patterns.
Protocol Notes: Traditional Khavinson protocol: 10 mg daily for 10 days, twice per year. Courses are typically done in spring and fall.
Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to 10 mg vial → 5 mg/mL
For 5 mg dose: draw 1.0 mL (100 units on U-100 syringe)
When sourcing Epithalon for research purposes, the following quality benchmarks should be verified before use.
Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 14 days.
The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The products and information provided are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is intended for educational and research purposes only. Many peptides described on this site are not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use and are classified as research chemicals. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice.
Limited Evidence — Primarily animal studies with limited human data. Mechanism is plausible but clinical efficacy is unconfirmed.
Peptides commonly used alongside Epithalon for synergistic effects.
Telomerase Activator — Oral
Oral Epithalon for convenient telomerase activation and longevity support.
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