Peptide-based Anxiolytics: The Molecular Aspects of Heptapeptide Selank Biological Activity

Heptapeptide Selank (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) is presented as a potential anxiolytic with prolonged anti-anxiety and nootropic effects. The work investigates Selank's molecular mechanism in relation to GABA receptors. Using a radioligand-receptor approach plus HPLC and brain cell membrane preparations, the authors report that Selank acts as a positive allosteric modulator of [3H]GABA binding. Selank is further tested in combination with other anxiolytic drugs. The joint action of Selank with some benzodiazepines is described as non-cumulative and differs from either substance alone, and Selank can block modulatory activity associated with diazepam and olanzapine, suggesting overlapping but distinct interaction sites. Overall, the study links Selank's anti-anxiety mechanism to subtype-selective, concentration-dependent allosteric modulation of GABA receptors.