Cognitive Function Peptides
Supports brain function and cognition
Cognitive peptides target brain function through several pathways: increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF, a protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons), modulating neurotransmitter systems, reducing neuroinflammation, and improving cerebral blood flow. The most researched include semax and selank (synthetic analogs of naturally occurring brain peptides), dihexa (an angiotensin IV analog with potent effects on memory formation), and cerebrolysin (a mixture of neurotrophic peptides used clinically in some countries for stroke and traumatic brain injury).
Interest in cognitive peptides comes from both clinical neurology (treating brain injuries, neurodegeneration, and cognitive decline) and the nootropic community (optimizing mental performance in healthy individuals). The evidence base ranges from extensive clinical trial data (cerebrolysin has hundreds of studies) to early-stage research with mostly animal data (dihexa).
This page collects every peptide on PeptideWiki tagged for cognitive function. Browse individual profiles for mechanisms, dosing protocols, and safety information.
Peptides (8)
Semax
Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from a brain hormone fragment (ACTH 4-10), developed in Russia for brain-protective and cognitive-enhancing purposes. Research focuses on stroke recovery, cognitive function, and brain growth factor support.
Selank
Selank is a synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide derived from the immune protein tuftsin, developed in Russia. Research shows it has both immune-supporting and anti-anxiety properties without causing sedation or dependence.
Cerebrolysin
Cerebrolysin is a preparation derived from pig brain tissue containing small brain-protective peptides and amino acids. It is approved in many countries (but not the United States) for stroke, traumatic brain injury, and dementia. It is one of the most extensively studied brain peptide formulations.
Dihexa
Dihexa is a synthetic six-amino-acid peptide related to angiotensin IV with strong cognitive-enhancing properties. It has been proposed to be millions of times more potent than natural brain growth factors at promoting nerve cell connections. Research focuses on cognitive enhancement and neurodegenerative diseases.
Glutathione
Glutathione is a three-amino-acid peptide made naturally in every cell from glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It neutralizes damaging molecules, supports mitochondrial energy production, and helps the liver process toxins. Levels fall with age and chronic illness, making it a widely studied target for antioxidant and anti-aging research.
PE-22-28
PE-22-28 is a synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide designed to block a specific potassium channel (TREK-1) in the brain. Research in animal models focuses on antidepressant-like effects and cognitive enhancement through brain growth factor support and increased brain cell adaptability.
Pinealon
Pinealon is a synthetic three-amino-acid peptide that may help regulate pineal gland and central nervous system function. Developed in Russia, research focuses on sleep regulation, brain cell protection, and cognitive function in aging.
Cortagen
Cortagen is a synthetic four-amino-acid peptide that may help regulate brain cortex function. Developed at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, research focuses on supporting cognitive function in aging and protecting brain cells.