P21

P21 is a small 17-amino acid peptide derived from the active binding site of CNTF (Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor) that interacts selectively with the CNTF receptor complex (CNTFRα) without fully activating the JAK/STAT3 inflammatory cascade associated with full-length CNTF signaling.

This partial agonist or biased agonist activity allows P21 to capture the neurotrophin-like benefits of CNTF — particularly upregulation of BDNF expression in hippocampal neurons and promotion of hippocampal neurogenesis — while avoiding the systemic inflammation and weight loss side effects of native CNTF. P21 is studied in models of cognitive enhancement, particularly spatial memory and learning, as well as in neurodegenerative disease models where neurotrophin support is a therapeutic target.

• CNTF receptor (CNTFRα) partial agonism and biased signaling studies
• BDNF upregulation and hippocampal neurogenesis promotion research
• Spatial memory, learning, and cognitive enhancement models
• JAK/STAT3 signaling modulation without inflammatory activation
• Neurodegenerative disease neuroprotection models (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's)
• Comparison with full-length CNTF and other neurotrophic factors

Dose levels referenced by the MVLabs peptide calculator, shown for research reference only:

CNTF-derived peptide studied for neurogenesis pathways.

Research reference only — not dosing guidance for human use. Use the calculator for other vials or volumes.

Supplied as a lyophilized powder. Store at 2–8 °C on receipt; protect from heat, light and moisture, and avoid excessive agitation. If reconstitution is required for laboratory work, use sterile technique — bacteriostatic water, or 0.6% acetic acid for low-solubility peptides. Protocols vary by research application.