Quick Facts

Chemical Name
P021 (Ac-DGGLAG-NH2-NH2)
Also Known As
P021, Peptide 021
Category
Cognitive & Neurogenesis
Administration
Oral or subcutaneous administration

What is P21?

P21 (P021) is a synthetic peptide designed to mimic the effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Unlike BDNF itself, P21 can cross the blood-brain barrier when administered peripherally. It was developed at the New York State Institute for Basic Research for Alzheimer's disease treatment. P21 promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampus and inhibits GSK-3β, an enzyme implicated in Alzheimer's pathology.

How Does P21 Work?

P21 acts as a BDNF mimetic, activating TrkB receptors and downstream signaling pathways. This leads to increased neurogenesis in the hippocampus, enhanced synaptic plasticity, and inhibition of GSK-3β (glycogen synthase kinase-3β). GSK-3β inhibition reduces tau phosphorylation, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease. The combined effects support learning, memory, and neuroprotection.

Research-Backed Benefits

Neurogenesis

Moderate Evidence

Promotes birth of new neurons in the hippocampus.

Memory Enhancement

Moderate Evidence

Improves spatial and working memory in animal models.

GSK-3β Inhibition

Moderate Evidence

May reduce tau pathology relevant to Alzheimer's disease.

BBB Penetration

Strong Evidence

Can cross blood-brain barrier unlike BDNF itself.

Dosage Guidelines

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Peptides are research compounds not approved by the FDA for human use. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider.

Typical Range
1-10 mg orally or 0.5-2 mg subcutaneously
Frequency
Once daily
Duration
4-12 weeks

Orally bioavailable. Early morning dosing often preferred. Research dosing still being optimized.

Side Effects & Safety

  • Limited human safety data
  • Generally well tolerated in animal studies
  • Possible headache
  • Long-term effects unknown

Frequently Asked Questions

P21 mimics BDNF's effects but can cross the blood-brain barrier when taken orally or by injection. BDNF itself cannot cross the BBB and degrades quickly.
P21 was developed for Alzheimer's disease, targeting neurogenesis and GSK-3β inhibition. Animal studies are promising, but human clinical trials are needed.
P21's unique mechanism (BDNF mimetic + GSK-3β inhibition) differs from most nootropics. It may be particularly relevant for conditions involving reduced neurogenesis.

References

  1. Bolognin S, et al. "P021 cognitive enhancement." Neurobiol Aging, 2014. PMID: 24792908

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