Selank
Also referenced as: tuftsin analogue, TP-7 analogue
A tuftsin-derived peptide studied for anxiety in Russian clinical research.
- Evidence grade
- EExperimental / Limited Evidence
Experimental / Limited Evidence
- Regulatory status
- Not FDA Approved
- Human data
- Limited
No registered clinical trials identified
- Last reviewed
- September 1, 2026
Overview
Selank is a synthetic analogue of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin, developed alongside Semax at the same Russian institute.
Reported anxiolytic effects without sedation or dependence are the main interest. The supporting evidence is thin by international standards.
Why It's Being Studied
- Generalised anxiety and adjustment disorders.
- Interaction between immune signalling and mood.
- GABAergic and serotonergic modulation.
Mechanism of Action
It appears to calm anxiety-related signalling in the brain, apparently through immune and neurotransmitter pathways rather than sedation.
Selank is reported to modulate GABA-ergic transmission, alter serotonin metabolism and influence enkephalin degradation by inhibiting enkephalin-degrading enzymes. Immunomodulatory effects on interleukin expression have also been described in rodent and human cell work.
Research Areas & Routes Studied
- Anxiety
- Cognition
- Immune signalling
- Intranasal
Evidence Summary
Small Russian studies in anxiety disorders with limited methodological transparency; no independent international trials.
Human clinical evidence
- Small Russian trials in anxiety disorders report effects comparable to benzodiazepine comparators.
Animal studies
- Rodent anxiety models and neurotransmitter studies.
Anecdotal / community information
- Nootropic community reports of reduced anxiety; uncontrolled.
Reported Adverse Events in Research
- Nasal irritation reported; no systematic international safety data.
Limitations of Current Evidence
- Very limited, regionally concentrated evidence.
- No established international dosing protocol.
Why It Is Used
- Cognitive
Focus, Mood and Cognitive Load
Two Russian-developed peptides used together for the same reason people pair a stimulant with an anxiolytic: attention without the edge.
Read the case study
Research References
- Clinical trial
Selank anxiolytic activity: published research