Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 4 amino acids · Sonstiges
Sequence
Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly (AEDG)
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) isolated by Vladimir Khavinson at the St Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology from the pineal gland.
- In laboratory studies, epithalon has been described as able to increase telomerase activity in human somatic cells and to lengthen telomeres.
- Telomerase is an enzyme that can slow the shortening of telomeric DNA sequences during cell division.
- In cell and animal models, interactions with melatonin synthesis and hypothalamic-pituitary regulatory axes have also been described.
- The molecular target structures in humans have not been conclusively identified.
Research status
- Research on epithalon comes predominantly from Russian institutes and focuses on animal models (mice, rats) and in vitro studies.
- In animal models, observations of extended lifespan and reduced tumour incidence have been described; transferability to humans is not established.
- A long-term study by the Khavinson group in elderly people (n=79) described effects on various physiological parameters; the study design does not meet today's clinical standards.
- Independent, randomised, controlled clinical trials to GCP standard are entirely lacking.
- The substance is neither in EU approval procedures nor in active clinical programmes outside Russia.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01No established safety profile in humans — no GCP-compliant clinical studies
- 02Telomerase activation is theoretically a double-edged sword: telomerase is often overactive in tumour cells
- 03Possible promotion of tumour growth through uncontrolled telomere lengthening — cannot be ruled out
- 04Origin and quality of most commercial preparations cannot be verified
- 05The evidence rests almost entirely on a single research group — independent replication is lacking
Frequently asked questions
What is Epithalon?
Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) isolated by Vladimir Khavinson at the St Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology from the pineal gland.
What type of peptide is Epithalon?
Epithalon belongs to the Other class.
Is Epithalon legal in Germany?
The regulatory status of Epithalon in Germany is not clearly classified.
Where can I buy Epithalon?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. Epithalon is "unclassified" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is Epithalon banned in sport (WADA)?
Epithalon is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of Epithalon?
Documented risks include: No established safety profile in humans — no GCP-compliant clinical studies; Telomerase activation is theoretically a double-edged sword: telomerase is often overactive in tumour cells. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is Epithalon?
The evidence is classified as “preclinical”. 3 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of Epithalon?
Epithalon has a molar mass of about 390.35 Da.
Which peptides are related to Epithalon?
Closely related entries: MOTS-c. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
unclassifiedAustria
unclassifiedSwitzerland
unclassifiedEU
unclassifiedUSA
not approvedCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 3 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 219042
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 1 May 2026
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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