Synonyms / Designations: Epithalon, Epitalon, Ala–Glu–Asp–Gly, Epithalamin-derived tetrapeptide
CAS Number: 307297-39-8
Molecular Formula: C14H22N4O9
Molecular Weight: 390.35 g/mol
Peptide Sequence: Ala–Glu–Asp–Gly
Peptide Classification: Synthetic tetrapeptide; epithalamin-derived analogue
Purity: ≥ 99 % (HPLC, typical)
Appearance: White to off-white lyophilised powder
Pack Size: 10 mg (total)
Storage: Desiccated, protected from light, stored at –20 °C
Solubility: Soluble in water and buffered aqueous solutions
Description & Mechanism
Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide corresponding to a defined amino acid sequence originally identified as an active fragment of epithalamin, a peptide preparation derived from pineal tissue in early experimental studies. It was developed to provide a chemically well-characterised molecule suitable for controlled investigation of short peptide signalling in cellular and molecular research systems.
In biochemical and cellular research models, Epithalon has been examined for its interactions with nuclear and chromatin-associated processes, including modulation of gene expression and telomere-related regulatory mechanisms. Experimental studies have investigated its influence on chromatin structure, telomerase-associated activity, and intracellular signalling pathways, with observed effects dependent on concentration, exposure duration, and model system. Epithalon is used as a molecular research tool to explore peptide-mediated regulation rather than defined biological or clinical outcomes.
Applications in Research
- As a molecular probe for studying short peptide–mediated intracellular signalling
- Investigation of chromatin organisation, gene expression regulation, and telomere-associated processes in cell models
- In vitro studies examining peptide–nucleus interactions and regulatory pathways
- As a reference compound in research involving pineal-derived peptide fragments
Handling, Reconstitution & Stability
- Weigh under dry conditions; peptide is hygroscopic
- Reconstitute in sterile water or appropriate buffered aqueous solution depending on assay requirements
- Avoid vigorous agitation during dissolution
- Filter sterilize if required (e.g. 0.22 µm) immediately prior to use
- Aliquot and store reconstituted solutions at –20 °C (or lower) to minimise degradation
- Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.
Specifications Summary
| Parameter |
Typical Value / Range |
| Purity (HPLC) |
≥ 99 % |
| Appearance |
White to off-white lyophilised powder |
| Molecular Weight |
390.35 g/mol |
| Peptide Type |
Synthetic tetrapeptide |
| Solubility |
Water, buffered aqueous solutions |
| Storage |
–20 °C, desiccated, dark |
| Pack Size |
10 mg |
Precautions & Notes
- Experimental behaviour of Epithalon is dependent on concentration, exposure duration, and experimental model
- Buffer composition, pH, and ionic strength may influence peptide stability and assay performance
- Literature reports are derived from heterogeneous experimental systems and should be interpreted accordingly
- Appropriate controls are recommended to distinguish specific from non-specific effects
- Intended strictly for laboratory research use; not for human or veterinary application
References
Khavinson V.Kh. et al. Epithalon peptide induces telomerase activity and telomere elongation in human somatic cells. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 2003.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12937682/
Anisimov V.N. et al. Epitalon increases telomere length in somatic cells. Advances in Gerontology, 2024.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12411320/
Overview of Epitalon peptide research and mechanisms.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11943447/
Keywords: Epithalon, Epitalon, Synthetic Tetrapeptide, Pineal Peptide Analogue
