Pinealon

What is Pinealon?

A synthetic tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg) originally isolated from the polypeptide drug Cortexin. Part of the Khavinson bioregulator peptide family, it is studied for neuroprotective properties, cognitive support, and regulation of pineal gland function.

Pinealon was developed from research by Vladimir Khavinson at the Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology. Unlike conventional neuroprotective drugs that act on cell surface receptors, Pinealon appears to penetrate cell and nuclear membranes to interact directly with DNA, modulating gene expression involved in neuronal survival. Most published research comes from Russian scientific literature, with limited Western clinical validation.

Benefits & evidence

How it works

Pinealon crosses cellular and nuclear membranes to interact directly with DNA, influencing gene expression patterns involved in neuronal protection. It reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, preserves mitochondrial integrity, and promotes cell viability in stressed neurons. In animal models, it has been shown to decrease neuronal apoptosis and improve resistance to oxidative damage.

The peptide also appears to support pineal gland function and melatonin production, which may explain its effects on circadian rhythm regulation. In a clinical study of patients recovering from cranial trauma, oral Pinealon improved memory, emotional stability, and reduced headache severity, suggesting effects on multiple neurological pathways beyond simple antioxidant activity.

Dosing information

Side effects

Most side effects tend to improve as your body adjusts.

Research (10 studies)