Quick summary
Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) developed by Khavinson as a brain cortex bioregulator. It is studied for neuroprotection and peripheral nerve regeneration, with preclinical data showing up to 40% increase in regenerating nerve fibers, but no Western RCTs exist.
Overview
Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson as a brain cortex bioregulator. It belongs to the family of Khavinson short peptide bioregulators and is studied primarily for neuroprotection, peripheral nerve regeneration, and restoration of cortical function in aging. It acts on the central nervous system and has secondary effects on cardiac and immune tissue.
Mechanism of action
Cortagen is proposed to act as an epigenetic regulator in the Khavinson model: short peptides penetrate cell membranes and bind to specific DNA regulatory sequences, modulating chromatin accessibility and transcriptional activation. Transcriptomic analysis of Cortagen-treated cells reveals changes across 110 genes spanning 234 DNA regions, with effects on oxidative stress pathways, cellular repair signaling, and apoptosis regulation. In peripheral nerve injury models, intramuscular Cortagen at 10 mcg/kg increased regenerating nerve fiber counts by up to 40% following transection. It may also decondense heterochromatin, restoring expression of epigenetically silenced genes associated with aging.
Dosing protocols
| Purpose | Route | Dosage | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| neuroprotection and nerve regeneration (research) | subcutaneous | 1–5 mg | once daily | Typical research cycles: 10–20 consecutive days, repeated every 3–6 months. Preclinical models used 10 mcg/kg IM. Research use only. |
| CNS bioregulation (research, nasal) | nasal | 200–600 mcg | once to twice daily | Intranasal route pursued for direct CNS delivery. Limited pharmacokinetic data in humans. Research use only. |
Dosing information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide.
Research summary
Preclinical studies (primarily Russian-language publications) show nerve regeneration promotion, neuroprotective effects against ischemic and toxic insults, and restoration of cortical function in aged animal models. Cortagen has been evaluated for optic nerve repair and post-stroke neurological recovery in limited observational studies. No large-scale Western RCTs specific to Cortagen have been published. The evidence base consists largely of in vitro work, small animal studies, and Russian clinical reports that lack independent replication as of 2026.[1][2][3]
Evidence grading
Each claimed benefit is graded by the strength of available evidence. Grades reflect study quality, not effect size.
Strong = multiple RCTs · Moderate = limited trials or observational · Preliminary = animal or in vitro only · Insufficient = anecdotal or no published data
Side effects
Side effects vary by individual. This is not an exhaustive list. Report unusual symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Common stacks
Peptides commonly paired with Cortagen for synergistic effects.
Legal status
Not FDA or EMA approved. Sold by research peptide suppliers in the US and EU as a research compound. Not a scheduled substance. Human self-administration outside clinical research is not endorsed by regulatory bodies.
Sourcing & access
Research compound
Cortagen is classified as a research compound. Regulatory status varies by jurisdiction. Always verify current legal status and source from vendors providing third-party certificates of analysis (COA).
Frequently asked questions
Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide (AEDP) from Professor Vladimir Khavinson's bioregulator family, studied primarily for neuroprotection, peripheral nerve regeneration, and restoration of cortical function in aging. It is classified as a research compound and is not FDA-approved.
Cortagen is proposed to act as an epigenetic regulator that penetrates cell membranes and binds to DNA regulatory sequences, modulating chromatin accessibility and transcription across approximately 110 genes. In preclinical models it promotes nerve fiber regeneration and may decondense heterochromatin silenced during aging.
Limited human safety data exists. Preclinical studies report no significant toxicity. Anecdotally reported side effects include injection site reactions and headache. The evidence base consists primarily of Russian-language publications without independent replication.
Research protocols typically use 1 to 5 mg subcutaneously once daily for 10 to 20 consecutive days, repeated every 3 to 6 months. Intranasal dosing of 200 to 600 mcg once or twice daily has also been explored for direct CNS delivery.