Pinealon vs Selank
A neutral, side-by-side comparison of two nootropic & cognitive peptides — their mechanisms, dosing ranges, administration routes, side effects, and research evidence. For research and educational purposes only.
Pinealon
Pinealon is a synthetic tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg) developed by the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology — the same institution behind Epithalon and Cortexin. It is a short peptide bioregulator targeting the pineal gland and central nervous system. Research suggests it acts as an epigenetic regulator, penetrating cell nuclei to modulate gene expression in neurons, with reported effects on sleep quality, neuroprotection, circadian rhythm regulation, and age-related cognitive decline.
Full profileSelank
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from tuftsin, an endogenous immunomodulatory peptide. Developed in Russia by the Institute of Molecular Genetics, it has been studied extensively for anxiolytic, nootropic, and immunomodulatory effects. It is registered as a medication in Russia and Ukraine.
Full profile| Pinealon | Selank | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Nootropic & Cognitive | Nootropic & Cognitive |
| Also known as | EDR, Glu-Asp-Arg, Pineal tripeptide | TP-7, Tuftsin analog |
| Evidence | Research-stage | Research-stage |
| Dosing range | 100mcg–300mcg mcg, Once daily (evening, given melatonin/sleep effects) | 250mcg–1000mcg mcg, 1–2x daily |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal, Oral (sublingual for better absorption) | Intranasal (most common — direct CNS delivery), Subcutaneous injection |
| Key side effects | Generally well-tolerated, Drowsiness if dosed during the day, Vivid dreams (common — melatonin pathway activation), Mild headache (uncommon) | Mild sedation at high doses, Nasal irritation (intranasal route), Generally very well-tolerated, No reported dependence or withdrawal |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 1 reference |
Key differences
- Administration: Pinealon — Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal, Oral (sublingual for better absorption); Selank — Intranasal (most common — direct CNS delivery), Subcutaneous injection.
- Frequency: Pinealon is typically Once daily (evening, given melatonin/sleep effects); Selank is 1–2x daily.
- Research depth: this profile cites 2 sources for Pinealon vs 1 for Selank.
How each works
Pinealon
Like other peptide bioregulators from the Khavinson group, Pinealon is proposed to work by penetrating the nuclear membrane and interacting directly with histones and promoter regions to regulate transcription. In vitro studies show Pinealon increases synthesis of serotonin and melatonin precursors in pinealocytes and upregulates antioxidant enzyme expression in neuronal cells. Animal studies demonstrate reduced neuronal apoptosis after hypoxic stress and improved performance in cognitive tasks. Clinical observations from Russian gerontology practice suggest benefits for insomnia, age-related cognitive decline, and neurological recovery.
Selank
Selank modulates GABA-A receptors and influences BDNF expression, producing anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation or dependence. Russian clinical studies report improvements in generalized anxiety disorder, cognitive performance, and mood stability. It also appears to modulate T-helper cell ratios and interferon production.
This comparison aggregates public research and structured profile data for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not recommend either compound for human use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.