Human Ezrin Peptide 1

Human Ezrin Peptide 1 (HEP-1), marketed under the brand name Gepon, is a synthetic 14-amino acid peptide (TEKKRRETVEREKE) corresponding to the 1-14 sequence of the human ezrin protein. It functions as an immunomodulator and antiviral agent. HEP-1 has been shown to induce the production of alpha and gamma interferons, activate natural killer cells, and mobilize macrophages. It was originally developed in Russia by the Ataullakhanov group and is approved there for treating various conditions, including Hepatitis C, HIV-related opportunistic infections, and ulcerative colitis. In the context of COVID-19, it is being evaluated by Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences for its ability to prevent or treat the cytokine storm and hyper-inflammation associated with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Brand names

Gepon

Other names

Ezrin peptide14-mer peptidetetra deca peptide