P21 vs Vilon
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- P21 is a synthetic peptide derived from CNTF (ciliary neurotrophic factor) that promotes hippocampal neurogenesis, enhances memory and spatial learning, and may reduce amyloid-beta pathology. It is used as a neurogenic and cognitive enhancer with potential anti-Alzheimer's applications.
- Vilon is a synthetic dipeptide (Lys-Glu) derived from the thymus gland extract Thymalin. The shortest immune-regulatory peptide known, Vilon modulates T-cell and NK-cell function, extends lifespan in animal models, and shows epigenetic anti-aging activity. It is one of the Khavinson peptide bioregulators.
- Half-Life
- Not well characterized; likely short, but neurogenic effects persist long after administration
- Very short as a free dipeptide; effects mediated via gene regulation
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Intranasal
- SubQ, Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 1–2 mg SC daily or 5–10 mg oral daily
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Once daily
- Key Benefits
- Promotes hippocampal neurogenesis
- Enhances spatial memory and learning
- Increases BDNF expression
- Reduces amyloid-beta plaque formation (animal models)
- Anti-tau pathology potential
- Cognitive enhancement without stimulant effects
- Potential therapeutic for Alzheimer's and cognitive aging
- Immune system modulation and restoration
- Lifespan extension (30–40% in animal studies)
- T-cell and NK-cell activation
- Epigenetic anti-aging activity
- Reduces oxidative stress markers
- Antioxidant gene upregulation
- May prevent age-related immune senescence
- Anti-tumor immune surveillance
- Side Effects
- Generally well tolerated in animal studies
- Limited human clinical data
- Injection site reactions
- Potential mild fatigue at initiation
- Excellent safety profile, decades of Russian clinical use
- Rare: mild injection site reaction
- Very rare: mild allergic reaction
- Stacks With
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