P21

A 6-residue synthetic peptide analog of ciliary neurotrophic factor studied in neuroscience research models.

Molecular Profile

Type
Synthetic peptide (modified neurotrophic fragment)
Molecular formula
C₃₀H₅₄N₆O₅
Molecular weight
578.3 g/mol
Amino acids
6
Sequence
Ac-DGGLAG-NH₂
Modification
N-terminal acetylation; C-terminal amide; adamantane group covalently attached to the fifth residue, conferring lipophilicity and protease resistance.

Mechanism & Target Class

P21 is a CNTF-derived peptide analog designed to target the IL-6 cytokine receptor family (CNTF/LIFR–gp130 complex). It mimics part of CNTF's receptor binding site (residues 148–151) while selectively modulating the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) branch of signaling via STAT3 interaction. This selectivity is associated with downstream engagement of BDNF–TrkB and CREB signaling cascades in preclinical models. The adamantane modification and N-terminal acetylation impart lipophilicity and protease resistance, properties examined in the context of blood–brain barrier permeability in animal studies. Pharmacokinetic characterization has examined oral stability and bioavailability in simulated physiological fluids.

Storage & Handling

Lyophilized
–20 °C; dry, protected from moisture and light.
Handling
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Lyophilized form generally stable for months under recommended conditions.

Primary Database

PubChem CID 56599151 ↗

References (21)

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