Cortagen is a synthetic short peptide developed from biologically active fragments of cortexin, a protein complex associated with central nervous system (CNS) function. As a cytogenetic peptide, Cortagen has been studied in preclinical models for its ability to regulate gene expression in neural tissue, protect neurons under stress, and support brain plasticity.
While not intended for human use, Cortagen has been evaluated in multiple experimental studies for its potential effects on neuroprotection, synaptic signaling, memory performance, and anti-inflammatory modulation in CNS-related pathways.
1. Neuroprotection and Stress Resilience in CNS Models
Cortagen has demonstrated protective effects in models of hypoxia, ischemia, and neurotoxic injury. Rodent studies show that Cortagen can reduce the extent of neuronal death following oxygen deprivation or trauma by stabilizing mitochondrial function and attenuating oxidative stress markers[1]. Its neuroprotective properties appear particularly relevant in cerebrovascular injury, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and stroke research.
2. Gene Regulation and Synaptic Plasticity
As a cytogenetic peptide, Cortagen is believed to exert epigenetic influence on genes related to neurotrophic signaling, synaptic connectivity, and antioxidant defense. Research shows that Cortagen can upregulate expression of BDNF, NGF, and other neuroprotective genes while suppressing apoptotic pathways[2]. This supports its use in models exploring learning, memory, and long-term potentiation (LTP).
3. Cognitive Enhancement in Aging and Degenerative Models
In behavioral studies involving aged rodents, Cortagen improved performance in maze navigation and memory retention tasks, indicating enhanced cognitive function[3]. It has also been studied alongside cortexin in experiments modeling age-related cognitive decline, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s-like pathologies—where it showed potential in preserving synaptic integrity and reducing neuroinflammation[4].
4. Ophthalmic and Visual System Research
Cortagen’s effects have also extended into retinal and optic nerve studies, where it was shown to improve recovery in models of retinal ischemia and optic nerve damage. Treated animals exhibited improved visual evoked potentials (VEPs) and preservation of retinal ganglion cells[5]. This opens a niche for Cortagen in vision-related neuroregenerative research.
Suggested Research Applications
Researchers may find Cortagen suitable for the following experimental study areas:
- CNS injury models (e.g., ischemia, hypoxia, neurotrauma)
- Gene regulation and neurotrophic peptide research
- Aging-related memory and learning studies
- Retinal ischemia and optic nerve degeneration models
- Inflammatory signaling and oxidative damage in the brain
- Mitochondrial stabilization in neurons
Its broad neural impact and gene-modulating properties make Cortagen a valuable tool in neurobiological and geroscience-focused laboratories.
For Research Use Only
At Battle Born Peptides, we offer high-purity Cortagen in a 20mg lyophilized format for laboratory research use only. Our peptides are not for human consumption, clinical application, or therapeutic use. All research materials are intended for qualified professionals conducting controlled studies.
References
- Khavinson, V.K., et al. (2009). Peptide bioregulators and neuroprotection in brain ischemia models. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 147(3), 336–340.
- Kvetnoy, I.M., et al. (2011). Regulation of neurotrophic gene expression by short peptides in cortical tissue. Neurochemical Journal, 5(2), 155–160.
- Trofimova, S.V., et al. (2008). Cortagen improves cognitive function in aged rodents. Advances in Gerontology, 21(1), 45–50.
- Malinin, V.V., et al. (2010). Peptide therapy in Alzheimer’s disease models: Cortagen and cortexin effects. Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology, 40(2), 195–202.
- Shtompel, A.V., et al. (2012). Protective effect of Cortagen on retinal neurons in ischemia. Experimental Eye Research, 95(4), 357–362.