Epithalon
Also known as: Epitalon, Epithalamin synthetic, AEDG peptide
Overview
Epithalon (also spelled Epitalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) that replicates the activity of Epithalamin, a natural polypeptide extract from the pineal gland studied by Russian researcher Professor Vladimir Khavinson beginning in the 1980s. It has become one of the most researched bioregulator peptides, with studies demonstrating telomerase activation, telomere elongation in human somatic cells, melatonin restoration, and potential lifespan extension in animal models.
Mechanism of Action
Epithalon activates the hTERT gene (human telomerase reverse transcriptase), upregulating production of the telomerase enzyme catalytic subunit. This leads to telomere elongation in somatic cells that normally exhibit limited telomerase activity. In vitro studies show human fibroblast cells treated with Epithalon surpassed the Hayflick limit by at least 10 additional divisions. Additionally, Epithalon restores melatonin secretion from the pineal gland, normalizing circadian rhythms, and may act epigenetically to restore gene expression to more youthful patterns.
Potential Benefits
- Telomerase activation and telomere elongation in human cells
- Cells surpass normal Hayflick limit by 10+ additional divisions in vitro
- Restoration of melatonin secretion and circadian rhythm normalization
- Reduced incidence of spontaneous tumors in animal studies
- Increased mean and maximum lifespan in mice, rats, and flies
- Reduction of age-related chromosomal abnormalities
- Increased antioxidant enzyme activity
- Reduced cardiovascular mortality in long-term human follow-up studies
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Typical Range | 5-10 mg/day intensive; 2-3 mg/day maintenance |
| Beginner | 2 mg/day for 10 days |
| Intermediate | 5 mg/day for 10-20 days |
| Advanced | 5-10 mg/day for 20 days, 1-2x/year |
| Cycle Duration | 10-20 day courses, 1-2 times per year |
| Cycle Off | 6 months between intensive courses |
Khavinson's original research used 10-day courses twice yearly. Many longevity protocols use a 10-day intensive course every 6 months. Effects may persist for several months after a course due to telomerase activation downstream effects.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Subcutaneous Injection High
Primary research route; most consistent and well-characterized bioavailability
Intramuscular Injection High
Alternative to subcutaneous; comparable effects
Nasal Moderate
Nasal spray form available; lower systemic bioavailability but convenient for non-injection users
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving Epithalon:
Longevity Protocol Stack
Comprehensive anti-aging combining telomerase activation, tissue repair, GH optimization, and cellular energy
Epithalon courses can be combined with ongoing GHK-Cu and NAD+ supplementation; Sermorelin provides GH axis support.
Immune + Anti-Aging Stack
Thymic regeneration and immune optimization with telomere support
Both originate from Khavinson's research; Thymosin Alpha-1 restores T-cell immunity while Epithalon targets neuroendocrine-immune aging.
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Typical Vial Size | 10mg |
|---|---|
| BAC Water | 1-2ml per 10mg vial |
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution |
| Shelf Life | 28 days refrigerated; lyophilized stable at -20°C for 24+ months |
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly (AEDG)
Side Effects & Safety
- Generally well-tolerated with minimal reported side effects
- Injection site reactions
- Theoretical risk of enabling oncogenic cell immortalization (not observed in studies)
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside Epithalon for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
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