Description
Selank (also TP-7) is a synthetic heptapeptide developed from the naturally occurring immunomodulatory tetrapeptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) by adding a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro sequence. The modification significantly enhances metabolic stability without compromising tuftsin’s biological activity. The sequence is Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro.
Selank was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences and has been approved in Russia since 2009 for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorders and neurasthenic conditions. Per study reports, the compound is investigated as a selective, non-sedating anxiolytic candidate that operates without the typical drawbacks of classical benzodiazepines (sedation, cognitive impairment, dependence potential).
The mechanism of action is multifactorial. In research models, effects are observed on the GABAergic system (via modulation of receptor subunit expression rather than direct binding), serotonergic and dopaminergic pathways, BDNF upregulation in hippocampus and frontal cortex as well as inhibition of enkephalin-degrading enzymes. The latter explains the stress resilience-promoting effects in studies.
The immunomodulatory component is preserved from the tuftsin precursor: stimulation of IL-6 production, modulation of Th1/Th2 balance and activation of phagocytes in research settings. Per study reports, Selank is used intranasally or subcutaneously.
In the community, Selank is frequently investigated alongside Semax, as both compounds originate from the same Russian research program and address complementary pathways.
You can order Selank in 10-vial packs at 10mg per vial.
This information is for research and educational purposes only. No medical recommendations.
Risks & Safety
Selank is considered very well tolerated per study reports. Across the available preclinical and Russian clinical studies, the compound has consistently been described as low in side effects, without the typical drawbacks of classical benzodiazepines.
Observed in research and user reports:
- Intranasal irritation: with intranasal use, mild burning, dryness or irritation of the nasal mucosa is the most common observation.
- Injection site: with subcutaneous use, isolated reports of mild redness or pressure at the injection site.
- Fatigue and mood: occasional reports of brief fatigue or a noticeable calming, as the compound addresses anxiolytic pathways. Pronounced sedation is not typical in the literature.
- Limited long-term data: robust long-term human studies and data outside the Russian research program are largely lacking.
This classification does not replace medical advice. Risk and responsibility for any actual use lie entirely with the buyer.
Studies
- Selank Administration Affects the Expression of Some Genes Involved in GABAergic Neurotransmission - Frontiers in Pharmacology 2016, Volkova et al: Gene expression study on GABAergic modulation by Selank.
- Selank Affects Expression of Genes Involved in GABAergic Neurotransmission - Frontiers in Pharmacology 2017: GABA receptor modulation at the gene expression level.
- Transcriptomic response of rat hippocampus and spleen cells to selank administration - Doklady Biochemistry & Biophysics 2010: Gene expression study on central and peripheral effects.
