Thymogen

Thymogen (L-Glu-L-Trp)

In simple words

Thymogen is a peptide made of just two amino acids, isolated from the thymus gland as its smallest immunologically active fragment. It is studied as a gentle agent for restoring immunity, for example in older adults after surgery.

What this molecule is

2 amino acids: L-glutamic acid + L-tryptophan. Glu-Trp. ~333 Da. A dipeptide isolated from the thymus. The smallest immunologically active fragment.

Why it is studied

One of Khavinson's most "pure" immune bioregulators. RCT in older cancer patients (double-blind): restoration of immunity after surgery, ↓postoperative complications. Reduced carcinogenesis in rats 1.5-fold. A gentle and safe immunostimulant.

How it works

Stimulates T-cell differentiation and maturation. ↑synthesis of IL-2 and IFN-γ. Regulates cytokine balance. ↓inflammatory cascades. ↑DNA synthesis in thymic cells. Gentle activation without overstimulation.

Doses used in studies

Studies used 100 mcg (0.1 mg) IM once daily for a course of 10 days; the solution was prepared with 1 ml of bacteriostatic water. The intranasal form (Thymogen 0.01%) was used at 1–2 doses in each nostril 2–3 times/day for a course of 5–10 days.

Combined with in studies

  • Thymalin — comprehensive thymic support
  • Crystagen — nuclear regeneration + immunity
  • Epitalon — anti-aging synergy

Level of evidence

Level A-C Human clinical trials. There are randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or the compound has been approved by a regulatory agency. The most reliable level. Human RCTs (oncology, older adults). Well studied in Russian science.

Important to know

⚠️ Most studies are Russian, with small samples. Two routes of administration (IM and intranasal). Research only.

Studies in PubMed

  1. [Application thymogen for preoperative preparation of elderly patients with tumor processes in abdominal cavity]. (Adv Gerontol, 2011)
  2. Immunomodulatory synthetic dipeptide L-Glu-L-Trp slows down aging and inhibits spontaneous carcinogenesis in rats. (Biogerontology, 2000)
  3. The First Reciprocal Activities of Chiral Peptide Pharmaceuticals: Thymogen and Thymodepressin, as Examples. (Int J Mol Sci, 2024)
  4. [The effect of the synthetic immunomodulator thymogen on radiation-induced carcinogenesis in rats]. (Vopr Onkol, 1992)

Research peptides are laboratory reagents (Research Use Only). They are not medicines and are not intended for use in humans or animals.