Immunomodulatory and Thymic Peptides
12 compounds in this family, each with its recorded mechanism, routes of administration, safety notes and references to published literature.
- AlmurtideAlmurtide (also known as Murabutide or MDP‑butyl ester) is a synthetic analogue of the bacterial cell‑wall component muramyl dipeptide. It belongs to the immunomodulatory peptide family and has been investigated experimentally as an immune‑stimulating adjuvant. Research has examined its ability to modulate lymphocyte proliferation, enhance macrophage‑related colony‑stimulating activity, and act as a vaccine adjuvant, while animal studies have also reported joint inflammation with certain formulations.
- Dialyzable leukocyte extractDialyzable leukocyte extract (DLE), also called transfer factor, is a prescription‑only mixture of low‑molecular‑weight peptides derived from leukocyte filtrates. It is marketed as an immunomodulatory agent and has been investigated as an adjunct in conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, human papillomavirus‑related cervicitis, allergic rhinitis, and certain infections. The product can be administered intravenously, subcutaneously, or orally.
- DiaPep 277DiaPep 277 is a synthetic peptide derived from the heat‑shock protein 60 (Hsp60) that is being investigated as an antigen‑specific immunotherapy for type 1 diabetes. The goal is to modulate the autoimmune response that destroys pancreatic beta‑cells, potentially preserving endogenous insulin production and reducing the need for exogenous insulin.
- EdratideEdratide (also known as hCDR1, CEL‑2000, TV‑4710) is an investigational immunomodulatory peptide derived from the complementarity‑determining region 1 of an anti‑double‑stranded DNA antibody. It is being studied as a disease‑specific therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), aiming to restore immune tolerance and reduce disease activity.
- ForigerimodForigerimod (also known as IPP-201101, Lupuzor, P140 peptide) is an investigational phosphopeptide belonging to the immunomodulatory and thymic peptide family. It is being explored as a therapeutic agent for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease. The compound is classified as an immunomodulatory peptide that inhibits Toll‑like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways. Development is ongoing, and it has not yet received regulatory approval for any indication.
- GlatiramerGlatiramer acetate (Copaxone) is a synthetic polypeptide immunomodulator approved for subcutaneous injection in the treatment of relapsing‑remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). It is used to reduce the frequency of clinical relapses and may modestly slow disability progression. The drug has been in clinical use for decades and is considered one of the first‑line disease‑modifying therapies for MS.
- GolotimodGolotimod is an investigational immunomodulatory peptide, structurally related to the thymic peptide thymopentin. It is being explored as a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory and oncologic conditions, notably ulcerative colitis and head‑and‑neck cancer, based on early computational studies. The compound can be administered orally or by subcutaneous injection, but it remains experimental and has not received regulatory approval for any indication.
- NBI-6024NBI-6024 is an investigational altered peptide ligand (APL) derived from the insulin B‑chain (amino acids 9‑23). It is being studied as an immunomodulatory therapy for recent‑onset type 1 diabetes, with the aim of altering autoreactive T‑cell responses that destroy pancreatic beta‑cells.
- NonathymulinNonathymulin is a synthetic analogue of the thymic peptide hormone thymulin, classified among immunomodulatory and thymic peptides. Research has examined its use as an adjunctive therapy for rheumatoid arthritis, where it showed clinical benefit, and for multiple sclerosis, where it did not demonstrate efficacy. The compound remains in the research stage and is not approved for clinical use.
- OglufanideOglufanide (also known as gamma‑D‑glutamyl‑L‑tryptophan, Oglufanide disodium, SCV‑07) is an investigational immunomodulatory dipeptide that has been explored in early‑stage research. It belongs to the family of immunomodulatory and thymic peptides and is listed as a compound of interest in clinical‑trial databases, although no published efficacy or safety data are provided in the available literature.
- ThymalfasinThymalfasin (thymosin‑α1) is a synthetic immunomodulatory peptide approved as a prescription drug. Delivered by subcutaneous injection, it is used as an immune‑enhancing adjuvant in chronic viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and selected solid‑tumour settings. The peptide seeks to strengthen Th1‑type cellular immunity, promote T‑cell maturation, and augment antiviral or antitumour responses when combined with standard therapies.
- ThymocartinThymocartin (TP‑4), also known as RKDV, is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Arg‑Lys‑Asp‑Val) that corresponds to the 32‑35 fragment of the natural thymic factor thymopoietin. Classified among immunomodulatory thymic peptides, it is currently investigated as a research compound for potential immune‑enhancing uses. Studies focus on its physicochemical behaviour, delivery via injectable or nasal routes, and methods to protect it from rapid enzymatic degradation.