Tissue Repair/ImmuneUnregulated/Therapeutic
Thymosin Alpha-1
Synonyms: Zadaxin, Thymalfasin
Sequence: Ac-Ser-Asp-Ala-Ala-Val-Asp-Thr-Ser-Ser-Glu-Ile-Thr-Thr-Lys-Asp-Leu-Lys-Glu-Lys-Lys-Glu-Val-Val-Glu-Glu-Ala-Glu-Asn
History & Discovery Timeline
Thymosin Alpha-1 was isolated in the 1970s (specifically 1977) from thymus gland extract by Allan Goldstein. It was developed to restore immune competence in patients with thymic deficiencies.
What it is: Thymosin Alpha-1 is a synthetic peptide containing 28 amino acids corresponding to the natural peptide. It is classified as an immunomodulator (brand name Zadaxin).
Proposed Mechanisms & Research Findings: It modulates immune function by stimulating T-cell maturation, increasing cytokine production (IL-2, IFN-gamma), and enhancing NK cell activity. It also exhibits direct antiviral and antitumor properties.
Regulatory & Safety Status: It is approved in over 30 countries under the orphan drug designation for Hepatitis B/C and as an immune adjuvant. In the US, it is restricted to clinical trials and orphan status. Gray-market forms carry severe safety risks.
Athletic & Anti-Doping Status: It is not prohibited by WADA, as it modulates immune responses rather than enhancing performance or muscle growth.
Understanding Thymosin Alpha-1 Key Facts
Primary Target System:IMMUNE, NEUROENDOCRINE
Residue Count / Length:29 Amino Acids
Primary Action & Category:Immunomodulator (Tissue Repair/Immune)
Primary Receptors:Toll-like Receptor 9 (TLR9), Toll-like Receptor 2 (TLR2), Neuroendocrine CRF Receptors
Figure 1: Detailed molecular mechanism pathways of Thymosin Alpha-1 (click to enlarge).