PE-22-28 Side Effects
PE-22-28 is a synthetic peptide and is a derivative of Spadin. This molecule is a natural peptide, and its primary role is neuroprotective, as it stimulates neurogenesis, participates in neuronal growth, and strengthens the synapses with other neurons, muscle cells, or glandular elements. Due to the properties it creates on the nervous tissue, it is believed that this peptide can be potent in treating primary and secondary depressive states. Additionally, it can impact the improvement of cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and learning. PE-22-28 binds to the TREK-1 receptor, primarily localized in the central nervous system, and the level of their expression can affect the development of various metabolic responses as well as the development of multiple diseases. Scientists believe that Spadin can also indirectly affect the balance between muscle relaxation and contraction, which can be used in treating myogenic diseases.
About the Peptide
PE-22-28 is a peptide consisting of 22 to 28 amino acids and is a derivative of the natural peptide Spadin. This compound is synthesized from Sortilin. Studies have shown that this amino acid sequence is more stable in tissues and exhibits more effective antidepressant properties than Spadin itself. It binds to TREK-1 receptors, primarily localized in the central nervous system, and is involved in various cognitive processes such as learning and memory. The level of their expression is crucial for the development of some diseases.
Due to its effects on nervous tissue, scientific studies have shown that PE-22-28 can be used in the treatment of various primary and depressive conditions. A dominant state of sadness and unhappiness characterized patients with this diagnosis. They lack motivation for everyday life activities which can lead to suicidal thoughts and death in the final stages of the disease. By acting on the hippocampus (a part of the central nervous system responsible for the perception of emotions), this peptide can reduce symptoms of depression and improve the quality of life of these patients.
Most patients included in studies on people suffering from depression reported an improvement in their condition, a decrease in feelings of sadness, an increase in motivation, and an absence of suicidal thoughts after taking the peptide.
In addition to being a primary condition, depression can also occur as a result of somatic diseases or difficulty coping with illness. In such cases, the diagnosis is secondary depression, but the symptoms are the same as in the primary form. This case often occurs after a stroke, a condition that occurs as a result of compromised circulation and reduced blood flow to the brain. After a stroke, severe physical and psychological consequences can occur, such as paralysis, memory loss, or problems with movement. As this condition occurs suddenly, problems with facing these problems can result in mental decline and depression. After using PE-22-28, patients generally reported an improvement in their condition, a feeling of motivation and desire for health, and the cessation of suicidal thoughts.
Antidepressants have been used so far to treat depression, especially SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), which have provided primarily beneficial effects. However, this group of drugs takes up to several weeks to achieve an impact. In addition, they show many side effects, such as loss of libido, worsening of depression, and cognitive dysfunction. PE-22-28 is more potent, shows no significant side effects, and only takes a few days to take effect. Due to these advantages, it is believed that the peptide will eventually replace antidepressants in treating depressive conditions.
The level of expression of the TREK-1 receptor to which this peptide binds may have an impact on the development of various myogenic diseases, as it may affect muscle contraction and relaxation. However, this property remains insufficiently studied and applied.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action depends on the indication, but since its use is mainly limited to depressive states, the peptide acts primarily through its neuroprotective functions. As depression develops, neurons and their synapses are torn apart. Since neurons cannot be restored on their own, their new creation is necessary.
By binding to receptors, PE-22-28 can induce biochemical processes that restore neurogenesis and return the number of neurons to the state before depression. Additionally, it has been observed that patients with this diagnosis experience hippocampal atrophy and a reduction in neuronal volume. The peptide can induce the growth of this part of the central nervous system by regulating other physiological processes. The effect on neuronal growth significantly aids the recovery process, and there are certain assumptions that its use can lead to resistance to depression.
Similar mechanisms of action are also expressed in the treatment of secondary depression, as in the post-stroke case. Of particular importance is the reconstruction of cognitive dysfunctions that occur together with depression or separately in other neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease.
PE-22-28 could play a key role in regulating muscle function. It has been observed that reduced levels of TREK-1 receptor expression lead to contraction, while increased levels of these receptors lead to relaxation. This property is crucial because it may be an essential component of treating myogenic bladder dysfunction and other muscle diseases.
Structure
The chemical structure of this compound consists of
- ninety-six carbon atoms,
- one hundred and forty-two hydrogen atoms,
- twenty nitrogen atoms,
- twenty-two oxygen atoms.
These occupy a special arrangement in space, while the compound has a high molecular weight.
Side Effects
Water Retention
One of the more common and serious side effects is water retention. This protein binds water, and the most common place for it to accumulate is the knee joints. The fluid can compromise neurovascular elements, leading to impaired impulse transmission and symptoms such as tingling and numbness. Additionally, it can lead to subcutaneous edema, particularly in the lower legs and arms, commonly referred to as peripheral edema. If not treated in time, difficulty moving can occur, which can be a particular problem for obese patients or those with pre-existing joint and bone conditions. This side effect occurs relatively frequently but is easily resolved with diuretic therapy, which helps eliminate the accumulated fluid. The occurrence of this phenomenon does not require the withdrawal of the peptide from therapy and passes relatively quickly.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Symptoms
Some of the rare side effects include breathing problems, chest pain, and fast heart rate, which can lead to symptoms such as sweating, hot flashes, dizziness, and disorientation. These side effects usually occur in patients who already have heart and respiratory problems but are not life-threatening. In these cases, the peptide is still not contraindicated, and the therapy can be continued. However, the healthcare professional may need to adjust the dose and method of administration or possibly include additional treatment. Therefore, the patient must never adjust the dose themself, skip the therapy, or exceed the maximum dose.
Injection Site Reaction
PE-22-28 is most often administered as an intranasal spray. In addition to being an effective method of administration, it is more comfortable for the patient. In depressive states, it would be difficult to find an adequate site for subcutaneous injection and administer the peptide daily. However, suppose the doctor has decided on this method of administration. In that case, it always carries with it widespread but also very mild side effects in the form of reactions at the site of administration.
These include pain, redness, swelling, itching, or skin reactions. After a few applications, it usually subsides. However, if it persists for a long time or worsens, consulting the doctor is necessary. Patients are advised to change the region of application to avoid any potential reactions.
Safety
According to scientific studies, PE-22-28 is a peptide when used as directed and under the guidance of a doctor. The maximum specified dose should never be exceeded or changed independently. Due to its use in the treatment of depressive conditions, family members should supervise its use so that the patient does not intentionally or unintentionally discontinue treatment. Regardless of the results achieved so far, PE-22-28 will remain a subject of research.