PEP-51

PEP-51 is a preclinical-stage natural peptide drug candidate being developed by **Proteimax Biotechnology** for the treatment of epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases. It is a formulated version of a naturally occurring hemoglobin-derived peptide belonging to the hemopressin family, which represents the first peptide cannabinoids ever discovered. PEP-51 modulates cannabinoid receptor signaling, specifically targeting the **Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1)** and the **Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2)**. In preclinical studies, PEP-51 has demonstrated the ability to delay seizure onset in models of epilepsy and prevent neurodegeneration in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) models. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as **Interleukin 1 beta** and **Interleukin 6**. Notably, PEP-51 has shown high potency in oral administration without the common cannabinoid side effects of depression or euphoria.

Other names

hemopressin-family peptide