Thymulin
Thymulin (zinc-dependent thymic hormone)
A zinc-dependent thymic hormone studied for immune regulation, inflammation, and pain, mostly in preclinical work.
Overview
Thymulin is a nonapeptide thymic hormone whose activity depends on zinc. It regulates T-cell function and has been studied for immune modulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and pain in animal models. Because its activity falls with age and zinc status, it is of interest in immune aging. Human therapeutic evidence is limited and it is not approved.
Mechanism of action
In its zinc-bound form, regulates T-cell differentiation and dampens inflammatory signaling.
Key studies & citations
- Review1989
Thymulin, a zinc-dependent hormone
Thymulin's activity and antigenicity depend on bound zinc; it induces T-cell differentiation and enhances T-cell subset functions.
Medical Oncology and Tumor Pharmacotherapy - Animal2002
Potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions of a novel thymulin-related peptide in the rat
A thymulin analogue (PAT) dose-dependently reduced endotoxin-induced hyperalgesia and inflammation in rats.
British Journal of Pharmacology - Review2014
Physiology and therapeutic potential of the thymic peptide thymulin
Reviews thymulin's neuroendocrine regulation and the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of thymulin and its analogue.
Current Pharmaceutical Design
Frequently asked questions
Why is thymulin linked to zinc?
Thymulin only becomes active when bound to zinc. Low zinc or aging reduces its activity, which is part of why it is studied in immune aging.