P21
Lab-Tested ≥98% Purity · Certificate of Analysis Included · Global Shipping
P21 (P021) — CNTF-Derived Neurotrophic Peptide for Neurogenesis Research
P21, also known as P021, is an 11-mer synthetic peptide derived from the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) active region, developed by Dr. Khalid Iqbal's group at the New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities. Published in Neurobiology of Aging (2013) and Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, P21 was designed to mimic CNTF's neurotrophic properties while possessing enhanced blood-brain barrier permeability and oral bioavailability. This compound has emerged as a key research tool for studying adult hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.
Mechanism of Action
P21 enhances the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) through inhibition of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) signaling. By competitively binding the LIF receptor without activating downstream JAK/STAT signaling, P21 releases tonic inhibition on BDNF transcription. Elevated BDNF subsequently activates TrkB receptor cascades, promoting neuronal survival, dendritic arborization, and synaptic strengthening. Additionally, P21 has been shown to decrease glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) activity, reducing tau hyperphosphorylation in neuronal culture models.
Key Research Areas
- Adult Neurogenesis: Studies using BrdU-labeled neuronal progenitors in aged mouse hippocampus have demonstrated that P21 significantly increases neurogenesis in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus, with newly generated neurons exhibiting mature electrophysiological properties.
- Cognitive Enhancement: Morris water maze and novel object recognition studies in 3xTg-AD mouse models have shown significant improvements in spatial and recognition memory following chronic P21 administration.
- Tau Pathology: Research has demonstrated that P21 reduces phosphorylated tau levels at multiple epitopes (AT8, PHF-1, AT180) in transgenic Alzheimer's disease models, correlating with improved synaptic density markers.
- Synaptic Plasticity: Electrophysiological studies have shown enhanced long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampal slices from P21-treated animals, with increased expression of synaptic scaffold proteins PSD-95 and synaptophysin.
Technical Specifications
- Dosage per vial: 50mg lyophilized powder
- Purity: ≥98% (HPLC verified)
- Storage: -20°C, protected from light
Why Researchers Choose Peptides BioLab
Every batch of P21 supplied by Peptides BioLab undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis, ensuring ≥98% purity verified by an independent Certificate of Analysis (CoA). Our product is supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability, shipped worldwide in temperature-controlled packaging.
Related Research Peptides
Researchers studying neurogenesis and cognitive function may also find these compounds relevant: Pinealon, Selank, and Semax. For a complete overview, browse our Cognitive Function Research collection.
For research purposes only — Not for human consumption. All products are intended solely for in-vitro research and laboratory use.
Every Peptides BioLab product includes a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with HPLC and MS data confirming ≥98% purity. The CoA is available in the product tabs as the 2nd image, or contact our team to request a copy.
Shipping: We ship worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities. Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Express and standard shipping options available at checkout.
Storage: Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 30 days. Keep away from direct sunlight.
