Cortistatin
Also known as: CST-14, CST-17, CST-29
Overview
Cortistatin is a neuropeptide related to somatostatin that is expressed predominantly in cortical interneurons. Unlike somatostatin, cortistatin binds with high affinity to all five somatostatin receptors (SSTR1-5) as well as to MrgX2/MRGPRX2 and the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). In addition to neuroendocrine regulatory functions, cortistatin has potent and novel anti-inflammatory properties mediated through MRGPRX2, making it a research target for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Cortistatin-14 is the predominant C-terminal form active in the brain.
Mechanism of Action
Cortistatin activates SSTR1-5 (shared with somatostatin), GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor), and MRGPRX2. Through SSTR2/SSTR5, it inhibits adenylyl cyclase and suppresses GH/ACTH secretion similar to somatostatin. Via GHS-R1a, it competes with ghrelin and modulates appetite and GH pulsatility. The MRGPRX2 interaction mediates potent anti-inflammatory effects including macrophage deactivation, reduction of IL-12, TNF-α, and IFN-γ production, and promotion of IL-10 and TGF-β tolerogenic cytokines. These anti-inflammatory properties are uniquely cortistatin-specific and not shared by somatostatin.
Potential Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory effects via MRGPRX2 independent of somatostatin receptors
- Neuroprotection in inflammatory brain conditions
- Modulation of cortical excitability and sleep-wake cycles
- GH and ACTH regulatory activity
- Potential in rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and sepsis models
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Beginner | Research only |
| Intermediate | N/A |
| Advanced | N/A |
| Cycle Duration | Preclinical durations |
Endogenous neuropeptide related to somatostatin. Research for sleep, inflammation, autoimmune disease.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Subcutaneous / IV (research) Moderate
Preclinical research use.
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving Cortistatin:
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
|---|
Typical vial sizes: 0.5-1 mg (research). Add bac water slowly down the side of the vial, swirl gently — do not shake. Use insulin syringe for precise dosing.
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
Pro-Cys-Lys-Asn-Phe-Phe-Trp-Lys-Thr-Phe-Ser-Ser-Cys-Lys (CST-14, cyclic)
Side Effects & Safety
- Potential hypotension at high doses
- GH suppression
- Appetite effects via GHS-R1a
Safety & Contraindications
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.
Pregnancy / Lactation
Bleeding Disorders
Active Skin Infection at Injection Site
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-Life | Not well characterized for this peptide; consult primary literature |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C (long-term) or 2-8°C (short-term, under 30 days). Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 28-30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside Cortistatin for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
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