Dihexa

Description

A potent nootropic peptide derived from BDNF that enhances memory, learning, and cognitive function. Crosses the blood-brain barrier effectively.

Overview

Dihexa (N-hexanoic-tyrosine-isoleucine-(6) aminohexanoic amide) is a synthetic neuropeptide derived from angiotensin IV. It was developed by researchers at Washington State University as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative conditions and chemically modified to enhance potency and blood-brain barrier penetration.

Mechanism of Action

Dihexa binds with high affinity to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and promotes c-Met signaling and HGF-dependent cellular activity. Activation of c-Met can stimulate neurogenesis and protect against tissue insults in many cell types including neurons. These activities are linked to improved cognitive function and increased dendritic arborization, spinogenesis, and synaptogenesis.

Benefits

• •Cognitive enhancement
• •Memory improvement
• •Neuroplasticity
• •Learning enhancement
• •Neuroprotection
• •Dementia research

Dosing Notes

Not established. In rats, dihexa has been tested orally at 2 mg/kg, i.c.v. at up to 1 nmol, i.v. at up to 10 mg/kg, and i.p. at up to 20 mg/kg.

Reported Side Effects

• •Headache
• •Injection site reactions
• •Limited long-term human data

Safety Notes

No long-term safety studies in animals or humans exist. There are theoretical concerns of c-Met activation leading to tumorigenesis and cancer progression.

Scientific References