Long Covid and Peptides
BP Care Research has taken a special interest in research peptides and Long Covid. Research peptides, each with unique mechanisms of action, offer a range of theoretical benefits for managing Long Covid. We have focused considerable effort on these peptides as they represent a promising approach to addressing the multifaceted symptoms of Long Covid based on their known biological activities.
VIP is being studied in the context of inflammatory diseases particularly because of the protective roles VIP plays in inflammation and immune response. TB4, with its healing and anti-inflammatory properties, alongside Thymalin and Thymosin Alpha-1, could address the immune dysregulation and persistent inflammatory state observed in Long Covid.
Selank’s impact on BDNF and immune modulation might help alleviate mood disorders and cognitive impairment. Finally, MOT-C’s role in improving mitochondrial function could be crucial in combating the fatigue and energy deficits seen in Long Covid sufferers.
Long Covid and Research Peptides of interest
MOT-C
MOT-C is a mitochondrially derived peptide known for its role in regulating metabolic processes and reducing inflammation. By enhancing mitochondrial function, MOT-C could potentially address the energy deficits and muscle fatigue commonly reported in long Covid symptoms.
Selank
Selank is a synthetic peptide with anxiolytic properties that influences the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and other metabolic processes in the brain. It has been shown to have a modulating effect on the immune system, potentially reducing the overactive inflammatory responses seen in some long Covid cases.
TB4 (Thymosin Beta-4)
Thymosin Beta-4 is a peptide found naturally in high concentrations in wound fluid. It promotes healing, cell migration, and angiogenesis. TB4 also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial in managing inflammatory responses post-infection.
Thymalin
Thymalin is a peptide derived from the thymus gland, used to regulate the immune system. Its primary mechanism is to restore and enhance immunological balance by stimulating the production of T cells and antibodies. This peptide could potentially aid in the immune dysregulation observed in long Covid.
Thymosin Alpha-1
Thymosin Alpha-1 is another thymus-derived peptide that enhances the maturation of immune cells, particularly T cells. It is known for boosting immune response, which might help in fighting persistent infection or inflammation associated with Long Covid.
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
VIP is a neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory neuropeptide. Its potential role in helping Long Covid patients relates to similar research in pulmonary fibrosis, suggesting its potential utility in similar inflammatory and fibrotic processes that could be present in Long Covid reflecting its promising potential.
Notable References:
MOT-C
- Cobb, L. J., et al. (2016). "Naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptides are age-dependent regulators of apoptosis, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers." Aging, 8(4), 796-809.
Selank
- Uchakina, O. N., et al. (2013). "The role of selank in regulation of inflammation and malignant tumor growth." PLoS ONE 8(7): e61689.
TB4 (Thymosin Beta-4)
- Goldstein, A. L., et al. (2012). "Thymosin beta4: a multi-functional regenerative peptide. Basic properties and clinical applications." Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy, 12(1), 37-51.
Thymalin
- Mezentsev, A., et al. (2009). "Thymalin in cancer patients with immune deficiency." Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology, 31(4), 547-554.
Thymosin Alpha-1
- Garaci, E., et al. (2010). "Thymosin alpha1: a historical overview." Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1194, 9-13.
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
- Said, S. I., & Mutt, V. (1970). "Polypeptide with broad biological activity: isolation from small intestine." Science, 169(3951), 1217-1218.
- Temerozo, J. R., Joaquim, R., Regis, E. G., Savino, W., & Bou-Habib, D. C. (2020). "The role of the neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide in the pathogenesis of viral infections." Frontiers in Immunology, 11, 975.
These references provide a glimpse into the foundational research and clinical investigations surrounding each peptide, emphasizing their potential therapeutic roles and mechanisms of action.