Cognitive
P21
P21 is a synthetic peptide derived from the active region of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) that promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus. Unlike full-length CNTF, P21 crosses the blood-brain barrier and does not activate the JAK-STAT signaling cascade, thereby avoiding the immune-stimulatory side effects of the parent protein. Research focuses on its potential for cognitive enhancement and neurodegenerative disease treatment.
Quick Facts
Also known asP021
CategoryCognitive
Half-life6 hours
Routessubcutaneous, intranasal
Common vial sizes5mg, 10mg
Molecular weight578.3 Da
Chain length5 amino acids
SequenceAc-DGGLAG-NH2
FDA statusNot approved
Storage2-8°C (refrigerated). Reconstituted: 21 days.
Dosing Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route | Cycle | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Enhancement (SubQ) | 200 mcg | 1x/day | subcutaneous | 6 weeks on / 4 weeks off | 100-300mcg range. Start at 100mcg to assess tolerance. Effects are cumulative. |
| Cognitive Enhancement (Intranasal) | 750 mcg | 1x/day | intranasal | 6 weeks on / 4 weeks off | 500mcg-1mg range. Intranasal provides rapid onset within minutes. |
| Neuroprotection | 400 mcg | 1x/day | subcutaneous | 6 weeks on / 4 weeks off | 300-500mcg range. Full neuroplasticity benefits at week 4-6. |
| Acute Cognitive Boost | 1.5 mg | as needed | intranasal | Continuous | 1-2mg intranasal as needed. Potential acute cognitive effects within minutes to hours. |
Protocols shown are for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.
Track Your P21 Protocol
Log doses, manage vial inventory, set injection reminders, and visualize blood concentration levels.
Start Tracking — FreeCommon Questions
How do I reconstitute P21?
Add bacteriostatic water to your P21 vial (common sizes: 5mg, 10mg). The amount of BAC water depends on your desired concentration. Use our reconstitution calculator for exact measurements.
What is the typical dose of P21?
A common dose for P21 is 200 mcg 1x/day via subcutaneous. 100-300mcg range. Start at 100mcg to assess tolerance. Effects are cumulative.
What is the half-life of P21?
The half-life of P21 is approximately 6 hours. This determines how long the peptide remains active in your body and influences dosing frequency.
How should I store P21?
Store P21 at 2-8°C (refrigerated). Research compound with limited stability data. Store lyophilized powder refrigerated. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water immediately before use periods. Once reconstituted, use within 21 days.
Is P21 FDA approved?
P21 is not FDA approved and is available for research purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or efficacy in humans.
References
- Neurotrophic peptides incorporating adamantane improve learning and memory (article)
- Disease modifying effect of chronic oral treatment with a neurotrophic peptidergic compound in 3xTg-AD mice (pubmed)
- Enhancement of neurogenesis and memory by a neurotrophic peptide in TBI model (pubmed)
- Prevention of dendritic and synaptic deficits and cognitive impairment with P21 (pubmed)
- Alzheimer's Disease: Challenges and a Therapeutic Opportunity - Long-Term Safety Review (pubmed)
- Effects of a ciliary neurotrophic factor small-molecule peptide mimetic in CDKL5 deficiency (pubmed)