Library · Brain & nerves · Cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection
P21 (P021 / CNTF-derived peptide)
P021, CNTF-derived peptide, Peptide 021
A 2010s synthetic peptide (P021) derived from CNTF, designed to mimic its cognitive and neuroprotective benefits while limiting the side effects of the full protein. Animal studies suggest gains in neurogenesis and cognition, but it remains in early research with no approved use.
Research score 60/100. Reference only, not a dose.
- Cognitive Enhancement
- Neuroprotective
- Memory Enhancement
- BDNF Increase
- Neurogenesis
- US status
- Research Chemical
- Approval
- Research Chemical Only
- Evidence
- Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) mimetic. Enhances neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. Investigational for Alzheimer's and cognitive decline.
- Research score
- 60 / 100
- Indication
- Research Only - No Medical Indication
- Origin
- USA
- Source category
- Brain & Nervous System
- Status group
- Research chemical
Mechanism
Activates BDNF/TrkB signaling along with PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways to support neuron survival, synaptic plasticity, and dendritic growth, and appears to reduce tau hyperphosphorylation and amyloid buildup.
Safety file
Human safety is unknown; animal data show good tolerability without the appetite loss seen with full-length CNTF; theoretical immunogenicity risk.
- Nasal irritation
- Headache
- Temporary dizziness
- Fatigue