PE-22-28 is a seven-amino-acid peptide fragment derived from Cerebral Dopamine Neurotrophic Factor (CDNF), a protein that belongs to the evolutionarily conserved MANF/CDNF family of neurotrophic factors. CDNF was discovered in 2007 and found to protect and restore dopaminergic neurons in animal models of Parkinson's disease. PE-22-28 represents the active fragment responsible for much of CDNF's neuroprotective activity. The peptide works by modulating the unfolded protein response (UPR) in the endoplasmic reticulum, a cellular stress pathway implicated in multiple neurodegenerative conditions. Research suggests PE-22-28 may improve cognitive function, enhance memory consolidation, and provide protection against age-related cognitive decline. It has become popular in the biohacking community as a nootropic peptide.
Key Data
Mechanism of Action
PE-22-28 acts on the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway, reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress and promoting neuronal survival. It modulates MANF/CDNF signaling to protect dopaminergic neurons and enhance cognitive function.
Reported Benefits
All information is presented for Research Use Only (RUO). Not medical advice.