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.