PE-22-28
PE-22-28 (spadin analogue)
An experimental peptide studied for rapid antidepressant effects and neurogenesis by blocking a potassium channel in the brain.
Overview
PE-22-28 is a synthetic analogue of spadin that blocks the TREK-1 potassium channel, a target linked to depression. In animal models it produced rapid antidepressant effects and increased neurogenesis, generating interest as a fast-acting antidepressant concept. It is experimental with no human clinical trials.
Mechanism of action
Blocks the TREK-1 potassium channel, which is implicated in mood regulation, producing rapid antidepressant-like effects in animals.
Key studies & citations
- Animal2010
Spadin, a sortilin-derived peptide, targeting rodent TREK-1 channels: a new concept in the antidepressant drug design
Spadin bound TREK-1 with 10 nM affinity, blocked the channel and produced antidepressant-like effects in five mouse behavioral tests after only four days of treatment.
PLoS Biology - Animal2017
Shortened spadin analogs display better TREK-1 inhibition, in vivo stability and antidepressant activity
The 7-amino-acid analogue PE 22-28 inhibited TREK-1 with an IC50 of 0.12 nM (versus 40 to 60 nM for spadin) and reduced immobility in the forced swim test and other depression models in mice.
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Frequently asked questions
Is PE-22-28 a proven antidepressant?
No. Its antidepressant effects are from animal studies. There are no human trials, so it is experimental.