Dihexa
Angiotensin IV analog (heptapeptide)
An order of magnitude beyond BDNF?
Half-life
~ short
Mol. weight
462.5 g/mol (approx, small molecule/peptide analog)
Sequence
Modified angiotensin IV analog
Discussions
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Overview
A synthetic angiotensin IV analog developed to activate hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met signaling — a pathway distinct from BDNF. In preclinical models of memory, Dihexa demonstrated exceptionally potent pro-cognitive effects; its discoverers reported it capable of restoring function in models of profound cognitive impairment, fueling intense interest (and debate) about its potency.
Mechanism of action
Dihexa activates the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor c-Met — a neurotrophic pathway distinct from the BDNF/TrkB axis targeted by compounds like Semax. HGF/c-Met signaling supports synaptogenesis and neuronal connectivity. In preclinical memory models, Dihexa was reported to be extraordinarily potent on a per-molecule basis compared to BDNF-derived approaches, which is the source of its reputation and the controversy around it. The mechanism is real but the data are preclinical and limited.
Researched benefits
- Activates HGF/c-Met (distinct from BDNF pathway)
- Potent pro-cognitive effects in preclinical memory models
- Studied for profound cognitive impairment models
Considerations
- Data are preclinical and limited
- Not approved for human use
- Potency claims remain debated
Key Academic Literature & Studies
Search more in PubMedPeer-reviewed citations and clinical trials evaluating Dihexa in scientific literature.
Query PubMed for recent peer-reviewed preclinical and clinical publications on Dihexa:
View Dihexa index on PubMed (NCBI)