P21
Also known as: P021, CNTF peptide derivative
P021 | CNTF-Derived Neurogenic Peptide
Overview
P21 is a nootropic peptide derived from ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) that enhances neurogenesis and cognitive function. It contains an adamantane moiety that enables blood-brain barrier penetration. Research shows it increases BDNF expression, inhibits LIF signaling to promote neurogenesis, and reduces tau and amyloid pathology in Alzheimer's disease models. Remarkably, P21 can boost neurogenesis in diseased brains above levels seen in healthy untreated brains.
Key benefits
- Potent promotion of neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus
- Increased BDNF expression
- Reduced tau protein pathology
- Reduced amyloid-beta plaque formation
- Improved cognitive function and memory
- Restored synaptic deficits in cortex and hippocampus
- Reduced mortality rate in AD models
- Crosses blood-brain barrier effectively
Mechanism of action
P21 operates through multiple pathways: it inhibits leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) signaling, removing a key roadblock to neurogenesis and shifting the brain toward a more embryologic state favoring neuron growth. It increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and activates the BDNF/TrkB/PI3-K/AKT/GSK3β pathway. This pathway modulation improves cognitive function and reduces tau and amyloid pathologies.
Molecular data
- Type
- CNTF-derived peptide
- Half-life
- Over 3 hours (mouse plasma)
Indications
What the research community uses this compound for, with self-reported effectiveness.
Neurodegenerative Disease
Cognitive Enhancement
Neuroprotection
Dosing protocols
Common protocols by delivery method. Adjust the curve below to model accumulation in your own cycle.
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | Variable by study | Daily | — |
Safety
Reported adverse effects, contraindications, and what to monitor on cycle.
Common side effects
- Limited data - primarily preclinical research
- Generally well-tolerated in animal studies
Rare side effects
- Unknown - insufficient human data
Contraindications
- Not approved for human use
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Unknown safety profile in humans
Monitoring
- Experimental peptide - medical supervision essential
- No human clinical trials completed