What is Epithalon?
Epithalon (also spelled Epitalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide consisting of four amino acids (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly). It was developed based on research into the pineal gland peptide Epithalamin, conducted by Professor Vladimir Khavinson at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology.
Epithalon is primarily researched for its potential effects on telomerase activation. Telomerase is an enzyme that maintains telomere length — the protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with each cell division and are associated with cellular aging.
Research has explored Epithalon’s effects on telomere length, melatonin production, and various aging-related parameters.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Peptide Amount | 10mg |
| Recommended BAC Water | 2mL |
| Resulting Concentration | 5mg/mL (5000mcg/mL) |
| Typical Research Dose | 5-10mg daily |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| Cycle Length | 10-20 days |
| Cycle Frequency | 2-3 cycles per year |
Reconstitution Guide
Materials Needed
- Epithalon 10mg lyophilized vial
- Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
- Insulin syringes (U-100, 29-31 gauge)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sharps container
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare workspace — Clean environment, gather supplies, wash hands.
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Clean vial stoppers — Wipe both vials with alcohol. Allow to dry.
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Draw BAC water — Draw 2mL bacteriostatic water.
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Add to peptide — Inject slowly down inside wall of vial.
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Dissolve — Epithalon dissolves quickly (1-2 minutes). Gentle swirl only.
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Verify — Solution should be clear and colorless.
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Label and store — Date vial and refrigerate.
Dosage Protocol
Concentration Calculations
With 10mg peptide in 2mL BAC water:
- Concentration: 5mg/mL = 5000mcg/mL
- Per unit (U-100 syringe): 50mcg per unit
Common Dose Calculations
| Desired Dose | Draw Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| 5mg | 1.0mL | 100 units (full 1mL syringe) |
| 10mg | 2.0mL | Full vial |
Suggested Research Protocol
Standard Cycle:
- Dose: 5-10mg daily
- Duration: 10-20 consecutive days
- Timing: Evening administration (may support melatonin)
- Frequency: 2-3 cycles per year
Cycle Schedule Example:
- Cycle 1: January (20 days)
- Cycle 2: May (20 days)
- Cycle 3: September (20 days)
Notes:
- Epithalon is typically used in discrete cycles rather than continuously
- 4-6 month gaps between cycles is common in research protocols
- Longer cycles (20 days) may be preferred over shorter ones
Injection Guide
Subcutaneous Administration
- Clean injection site with alcohol
- Pinch skin fold
- Insert needle at 45-90° angle
- Inject slowly
- Wait 5 seconds before withdrawing
Administration Timing
- Evening preferred: May align with natural melatonin production
- Consistency: Same time each day during cycle
Site Rotation
Rotate between:
- Abdomen
- Outer thigh
- Upper arm
Storage Requirements
Lyophilized (Powder)
- Temperature: -20°C (-4°F) or colder
- Duration: 2+ years
- Conditions: Dry, dark environment
Reconstituted
- Temperature: 2-8°C (36-46°F)
- Duration: 3-4 weeks
- Conditions: Refrigerated, protected from light
Research Considerations
Mechanism of Action
Epithalon research focuses on:
Telomerase Activation:
- May activate telomerase enzyme
- Potential effects on telomere maintenance
- Research in cell culture and animal models
Pineal Gland Effects:
- Originally derived from pineal peptide research
- May influence melatonin production
- Circadian rhythm-related effects studied
Cellular Effects:
- Cell culture studies on various cell types
- Effects on cell proliferation parameters
- Antioxidant-related research
Key Research Findings
Studies by Khavinson and colleagues reported:
- Telomerase activation in cell cultures
- Increased telomere length in some models
- Enhanced melatonin production in aging subjects
- Lifespan extension in animal models
Important note: Much of the primary research originated from Russian institutions. Replication studies from other research groups are limited.
Telomerase and Aging
The telomere/telomerase hypothesis:
- Telomeres shorten with each cell division
- Shortened telomeres associated with cellular senescence
- Telomerase can maintain telomere length
- Potential implications for aging research
Complementary Research
Epithalon is sometimes researched alongside:
GHK-Cu:
- Different mechanism (copper peptide)
- Both studied in aging/longevity context
Melatonin:
- Epithalon may influence melatonin production
- Sometimes used in combination research
MOTS-c:
- Mitochondrial-derived peptide
- Different aging-related mechanism
Sourcing for Research
Source from verified suppliers that provide third-party testing and certificates of analysis (COA) for each batch. Compare purity documentation, shipping conditions, and batch traceability before purchasing research materials.
Scientific References
- Khavinson VK, et al. “Epithalon peptide induces telomerase activity and telomere elongation in human somatic cells.” Bull Exp Biol Med. 2003;135:590-592.
- Anisimov VN, et al. “Effect of Epitalon on biomarkers of aging, life span and spontaneous tumor incidence in female Swiss-derived SHR mice.” Biogerontology. 2003;4:193-202.
- Khavinson VK, et al. “Synthetic tetrapeptide epitalon restores disturbed neuroendocrine regulation in senescent monkeys.” Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2001;22:251-254.
Last updated: December 01, 2024
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and research purposes only. Epithalon is a research chemical not intended for human consumption. Always follow applicable laws and institutional guidelines.