Dihexa (N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide) Produces Robust Cognitive Enhancement in Aged Rats
McCoy AT, Benoist CC, Wright JW, Kawas LH, Bhatt DL, Bhatt S, Harding JW
Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics · Vol. 347(2) · pp. 374–382 · 2013
Demonstrates that Dihexa, a potent HGF/MET activator derived from angiotensin IV, produces dramatic cognitive enhancement in aged rats — reportedly 7 orders of magnitude more potent than BDNF at promoting synaptogenesis. Establishes Dihexa as a candidate for Alzheimer's and age-related cognitive decline.
Citation
Key Findings
Dihexa is approximately 10 million times more potent than BDNF at promoting synaptogenesis
Significant improvement in spatial memory and learning in aged rat models
Activates HGF/MET signaling pathway to promote dendritic spine formation
Reverses cognitive deficits induced by scopolamine (cholinergic blockade)
Orally bioavailable and CNS-penetrant — crosses blood-brain barrier effectively
Methodology
Aged rat cognitive testing using Morris water maze and novel object recognition. Synaptogenesis quantification via dendritic spine counting and HGF/MET pathway analysis.
Limitations
Animal data only; no human clinical trials published. Potency claims require independent replication. Long-term safety unknown.
Protocols Using This Research
Tags
Educational use only. Research summaries are provided for informational purposes. Always consult the original publication and a qualified healthcare provider before making clinical decisions.
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