Description
Cortagen (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) is a synthetic peptide bioregulator designed to mimic the active site of endogenous cortical peptides. It is extensively used in neurobiology research to study the mechanisms of nerve tissue repair and functional restoration following trauma.
Unlike complex protein mixtures, Cortagen is a single-molecule agent with a defined sequence, allowing for precise mechanistic studies. It is employed in laboratory settings to investigate the modulation of gene expression, particularly in excitable tissues like the brain and heart, where it has been shown to influence transcription profiles related to cellular metabolism and structural integrity.
Biochemical Characteristics
Chemically, Cortagen is a tetrapeptide characterized by its specific amino acid sequence, which facilitates its interaction with cellular receptors and nucleic acids.
- Sequence/Structure: Alanyl-Glutamyl-Aspartyl-Proline (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro).
- Permeability: The low molecular weight allows the peptide to penetrate the blood-brain barrier in in vivo models, making it a valuable probe for central nervous system research.
- Stability: Supplied as a lyophilized salt to ensure long-term stability and prevent enzymatic degradation during storage.
- Specificity: Displays targeted activity in neural and cardiac tissues, influencing parameters such as nerve conduction velocity and gene transcription without broad systemic effects.
Chemical Properties
| Property |
Specification |
| Molecule Name |
Cortagen |
| Sequence |
Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro |
| Synonyms |
AGAP; Karzinin |
| Molecular Formula |
C17H26N4O9 |
| Molecular Weight |
430.41 g/mol |
| Form |
Lyophilized Powder |
| Purity |
≥99% (Verified via HPLC) |
| Solubility |
Soluble in water and organic solvents (refer to SDS) |
| Documentation |
COA available per lot; SDS available |
Cortagen is strictly for laboratory research and is commonly employed in the following investigational areas:
Neuroprotection and Nerve Regeneration
Cortagen is utilized in models of peripheral nerve injury (e.g., sciatic nerve transection) to study the restoration of motor function. Researchers measure parameters such as the amplitude and duration of muscle action potentials to quantify the peptide’s ability to accelerate nerve fiber regeneration and functional recovery.
Gene Expression Modulation
Microarray studies employ Cortagen to investigate its influence on the transcriptome. In mouse heart models, the peptide has been observed to alter the expression of specific genes, providing data on how short peptides can regulate cellular processes at the transcriptional level.
Immunity and Hemostasis
Experimental models involving avian subjects (chickens) utilize Cortagen to study its regulatory effects on the immune and hemostatic systems. Research focuses on the peptide’s ability to modulate lymphocyte populations and coagulation parameters in the context of aging or hormonal deficiency (hypophysectomy).
Pathway / Mechanistic Context
The primary mechanism of action for Cortagen in research settings involves its role as a bioregulator of protein synthesis and ion channel function.
- Ion Channel Modulation: Research indicates that Cortagen can influence the activity of voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels in neurons, potentially stabilizing the cell membrane and reducing excitotoxicity.
- Transcriptional Control: The peptide is hypothesized to interact with DNA or chromatin structures, initiating the transcription of genes essential for neuronal survival and repair.
- Metabolic Regulation: By modulating gene expression, Cortagen is studied for its downstream effects on cellular metabolism and the maintenance of tissue homeostasis under stress.
Preclinical Research Summary
Published preclinical literature documents investigations of Cortagen across multiple experimental models:
- Nerve Restoration: Studies in rat models of sciatic nerve injury demonstrated that Cortagen treatment significantly accelerated the restoration of functional activity, as measured by electromyography.
- Cardiomyocyte Gene Expression: Genomic analysis in mice revealed that Cortagen administration resulted in the differential expression of genes in heart tissue, suggesting a role in cardiovascular regulation beyond the nervous system.
- Immunomodulation in Aging: Research in older avian models showed that Cortagen could influence immune parameters and hemostasis, counteracting some age-related declines in physiological function.
Form & Analytical Testing
This material is produced via robust chemical synthesis and supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder.
- Lyophilization: Removes water content under vacuum to maintain compound integrity and extend shelf-life.
- Identity Verification: Each lot undergoes Mass Spectrometry (MS) to confirm molecular weight and sequence identity.
- Purity Verification: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is performed to ensure the product meets the ≥99% purity standard required for reproducible research data.
Referenced Citations
References are provided for informational purposes only and are not clinical claims.
- Shabanov, P., & Vislobokov, A. (2013). Neuronoprotective action of cortexin and cortagen. Reviews on Clinical Pharmacology and Drug Therapy. https://doi.org/10.17816/RCF11217-25
- Kolosova, L., Moiseeva, A., Turchaninova, L., Malinin, V., Polyakov, E., Nozdrachev, A., & Khavinson, V. (2002). The Delayed Effect of Cortagen on the Restoration of Injured Nerve Function. Doklady Biological Sciences. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1016098302564
- Anisimov, S., Khavinson, V., & Anisimov, V. (2004). Elucidation of the effect of brain cortex tetrapeptide Cortagen on gene expression in mouse heart by microarray. Neuro Endocrinology Letters. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15159690/
- Kuznik, B., Pateiuk, A., Baranchugova, L., & Rusaeva, N. (2008). Effects of epithalon and cortagene on immunity and hemostasis in neonatally hypophysectomized chicken and old birds. Advances in Gerontology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19432169/
RESEARCH USE ONLY
This product is intended strictly for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or veterinary use. It is not intended for diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. All purchases are subject to our Terms of Service and Purity Guarantee.
No COAs available for this product.
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