Peptide bioregulators
Cortagen
Organ-targeted Khavinson peptide aimed at cerebral cortex structure and cognitive function.
Approved in Russia Peptide bioregulators Nootropics & cognitive
- Full name
- Cortagen (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro, brain cortex peptide)
- Also known as
- AEDP
- Regulatory status
- Approved in Russia
Origin
Synthesized from the amino-acid composition of a natural cerebral-cortex peptide extract related to Cortexin, derived from bovine brain-cortex tissue preparations, approved in Russia as injectable and oral formulations.
Mechanism
Proposed to regulate cerebral cortex cell differentiation and reduce brain oxidative stress, with suggested effects on neurotrophic factor expression and circadian melatonin regulation in aging models.
Research summary
Evidence
A 2007 study documented antioxidant effects and reduced oxidative-stress markers in rat cerebral cortex; earlier organotypic culture work established tissue-specific effects. Research comes almost entirely from Khavinson's group, and no human trials appear in English-language literature.
Evidence tier: Approved in Russia — see the methodology note for how this is assessed.
Citations
- Effects of bioactive tetrapeptides on free-radical processes — Kozina et al. 2007
Reported benefits
- support for cortical cell renewal (preclinical)
- potential reduction in brain oxidative stress
- claimed cognitive/neuroprotective support
Dosing protocols reported in the literature & community
These are protocols reported by compounding pharmacies, published trials, or self-experimentation communities — not a prescription. Start low, especially for anything new.
| Route | Reported protocol |
|---|---|
| Subcutaneous/intramuscular injection or oral tablet | Community dosing: 10-20 mg subcutaneously or intramuscularly; oral forms 10-30 mg; no validated human protocol. |
Side effects
- minimal reported; neurological monitoring data unavailable
Safety notes
Community & reddit notes (anecdotal — not clinical evidence)
Discussed in Western nootropics and longevity communities for mental clarity and cognitive aging support. The evidence base is minimal and largely inaccessible to Western practitioners.