Immune System Support
Thymosin Alpha-1
Immune modulator for T-cell regulation and viral defense
Overview
Thymosin Alpha-1 (TA-1) is a synthetic 28-amino acid peptide originally isolated from the thymus gland. It is a potent immune modulator that enhances T-cell function, dendritic cell maturation, and viral defense. Unlike immune stimulants that can cause inflammation, TA-1 balances the immune system, boosting response to pathogens while dampening cytokine storms.
Chemical Information
IUPAC Name
Thymosin alpha-1
Sequence
Ac-Ser-Asp-Ala-Ala-Val-Asp-Thr-Ser-Ser-Glu-Ile-Thr-Thr-Lys-Asp-Leu-K-E-K-K-E-V-V-E-E-A-E-N
Molecular Mass
3108.3 Da
Formula
C129H215N33O55
Mechanism of Action
Functions as a Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) agonist and biological response modifier. It primarily targets TLR9 and TLR2 on dendritic cells and T-cells. Upon binding, it triggers the maturation of T-cells (specifically increasing CD4+ helpers and CD8+ killers) and stimulates the release of essential signaling molecules like Interferon-alpha/gamma and IL-2. Crucially, it possesses a 'smart' regulatory mechanism: in cases of sepsis or 'cytokine storm,' it downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines (like IL-6 and TNF-α) to prevent tissue damage, effectively acting as an immune thermostat that turns up defense against viruses/cancer but turns down autoimmunity.
Potential Research Fields
Hepatitis B/CSepsisCancer ImmunotherapyCOVID-19 / Viral DefenseVaccine Adjuvant
Recent Research
Following the global focus on viral immunology (2020-2024), Thymosin Alpha-1 has emerged as a premier agent for 'immune restoration.' Recent studies in Frontiers in Immunology (2025) confirm its unique ability to rescue exhausted T-cells in chronic infections and cancer. Unlike interferons which can be toxic, TA-1 improves patient survival in sepsis models by preventing the immune system from attacking organs (cytokine storm) while keeping it active against the bacteria/virus. It is currently being investigated as a 'universal adjuvant' to make vaccines more effective in the elderly, whose thymus glands have atrophied.
Bibliography / Scientific References
- [1]Thymosin alpha 1 mitigates cytokine stormOpen Forum Infect Dis • 2021 - Clinical data on reducing mortality in severe viral infections.
- [2]Immunomodulation in sepsisFrontiers in Immunology • 2025 - Restoration of CD4+/CD8+ ratios and reduced CRP.
Related Peptides
Peptide Information Guide
Administration Type
Injectable (Subcutaneous)Injectable administration protocol for research.
Vial Strength
10mg
Reconstitution
Reconstitute with 1.5ml bacteriostatic water
Dosage Options
300 mcg (approx 4.5 units)
Daily (Week 1)
Protocol: 10mg/1.5ml = 6.66mg/ml. 0.3mg = ~4.5 units.
500 mcg (approx 7.5 units)
Daily (Weeks 2-8)
Protocol: 10mg/1.5ml = 6.66mg/ml. 0.5mg = ~7.5 units.
Schedule
1x daily
Timing: One specific day.
Duration
3 Months
Potential Side Effects
Injection site soreness
lowcommon
None significant (highly tolerated)
lowvery rare
Research Use Only
This information is for research purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any peptide protocol. Individual responses may vary, and proper medical supervision is recommended for all peptide therapies.