What is CNTF and why was P21 developed from it?

Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) is a member of the IL-6 cytokine superfamily that promotes survival and differentiation of neurons. Clinical trials showed CNTF had powerful neurogenic effects, but also caused significant anorexia and weight loss that made it impractical. P21 was developed by identifying the minimal sequence responsible for neurogenic effects, aiming to retain the brain benefits without the metabolic side effects.

How does P21 neurogenesis research differ from other nootropic peptides?

Most nootropic peptides (Semax, Selank) work through acute neurotransmitter modulation with secondary BDNF effects. P21 works primarily through direct neurogenesis promotion - stimulating the birth of new neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus. This structural approach takes longer to manifest (weeks for new neurons to integrate) but may produce more durable effects on cognitive function.

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P21

Name: P21
Price: 79 USD
Availability: InStock

Short peptide fragment derived from CNTF (Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor) that promotes neurogenesis, upregulates BDNF, and enhances synaptic plasticity without

Cognitive

● In Stock

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Quantity (vials)

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1+ vials

−5%

3+ vials

−10%

5+ vials

−20%

10+ vials

Total Price

$79

For research & laboratory use only. Not for human consumption.

Half-Life

~2-4 hours

Administration Route

Subcutaneous injection

CNTF Neuropeptide

Activates JAK2/STAT3 pathway like ciliary neurotrophic factor

Neurogenesis

Promotes neural stem cell proliferation in hippocampus

Neuroprotection

Protects against glutamate excitotoxicity and hypoxic injury

Effect Profile

Based on primary research mechanisms

Focus & Memory

Neuroprotection

Mood & Anxiety

Neuroplasticity

Mechanism of Action

P21 is a 5-amino acid peptide derived from the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) sequence. It binds a CNTF receptor subcomplex and activates JAK-STAT and MAPK pathways to upregulate BDNF and promote adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Unlike full CNTF, which causes significant weight loss and appetite suppression (limiting clinical use), P21 retains neurogenic activity without the metabolic side effects attributed to the longer sequence.