DIHEXA

Dihexa was developed by Joseph Harding and his team at Washington State University . The compound was later commercialized by M3 Biotechnology, a company founded to further develop and market Dihexa . The peptide was formally discovered in 2007, and its first scientific study in rats was published in 2012 .

Dihexa is derived from angiotensin IV, a peptide hormone that affects the central nervous system . It binds with high affinity to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and potentiates its activity at its receptor, c-Met . This interaction promotes brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, which are crucial for neuron growth, differentiation, and overall synaptic plasticity . In an assay of neurotrophic activity, Dihexa was found to be seven orders of magnitude more potent than brain-derived neurotrophic factor .

Dihexa has shown promise in improving cognitive function in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease-like mental impairment . It is also being explored for its potential to treat other neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington’s disease . Fosgonimeton, a phosphate pro-drug of Dihexa, is currently in clinical trials for the treatment of these diseases .

Short duration safety studies with Dihexa have uncovered no apparent toxicity . Of particular note is the lack of neoplastic induction, which is significant since c-Met is recognized as an oncogene . This suggests that Dihexa may be a safe option for long-term use in cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection.

As research continues, Dihexa stands at the forefront of cognitive enhancement and neurological health . Its unique mechanism of action and potent effects make it a promising candidate for future therapies aimed at improving brain function and treating neurodegenerative diseases.