Epithalon is a tetrapeptide that is made up of four amino acids. Epithalon is also known as LS-72251, Epitalon, CID2192402. Epithalon is a synthetic form of Epithalamin, a naturally occurring substance in humans. The molecular mass of epithalon is 390.3459 and empirical formula is C14H22N4O9.

Epithalon was discovered by Dr. Vladimir Khavinson in late 1980s. The prime roles of epithalon are increasing the sensitivity of hypothalamus to hormonal influences, metabolic regulation in the epiphysis, regulation of melatonin and gonadotropins and normalizing the anterior pituitary functions etc.Experimental animal studies have been shown that epithalon is secreted by the pineal gland. In humans, epithalon is a potent antioxidant; increases resistance to emotional stress.

Epithalon induce telomerase production and preserve DNA sequence integrity in experimental studies. These findings suggest epithalon might delay aging process, prevent non-life threatening illness and sustain normal energy levels. Experimental studies showed the epithalon is involved in normalization of uric acid, cholesterol, electrolyte balance, T-cell immunity, neuroendocrine system, gonadotropic hormones and inflammatory proteins including complement system proteins. Epithalon is vital for telomerase activation/telomere elongation, strengthening of immune system and tumor prevention. Epithalon suppress proliferative changes in endometrium and vaginal epithelium in anovulatory phase. Epithalon is intended only for research purposes. Epithalon should not be used for diagnostic and/or treatment purposes.

Telomerase is a ribonucleic dependent polymerase, which elongates and maintains the integrity of the telomeres by the addition of tandem repeats to the 3 prime ends. The enzyme has two parts one which supplies the telomeres and the other with catalytic properties of reverse transcriptase. Epithalon has shown significant effect in suppressing the telomere reduction activity, this helps in maintaining the length of the telomeres within the regular range of 15-20 kilo base pairs. If the number is not kept within the range then tumor genesis will occur. Telomeres are located at the tail ends of chromosomes and they determine the integrity of the entire DNA sequence, elongation of the telomeres reduces senesces and stabilizes the telomeres leading to a healthy and long life. On the other hand, any wound to the telomeres will cause shortening and therefore apoptosis will occur.

Epithalon chemical profile
Formula: C121H200N42O39
Molecular weight: 2888.16
Chain: Tyr-Gln-Pro-Pro-Ser-Thr-Asn-Lys-Asn-Thr-Lys-Ser-Gln-Arg-Arg-Lys-Gly-Ser-Thr-Phe-Glu-Glu-Arg-Lys