peptide 5

Peptide 5 is a synthetic dodecapeptide that mimics a specific sequence within the second extracellular loop (EL2) of the Gap junction alpha-1 protein, commonly known as Connexin 43 (Cx43). It functions primarily as a selective blocker of Cx43 hemichannels. During conditions of cellular stress, inflammation, or injury, Cx43 hemichannels—which are normally closed—can open abnormally, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory molecules such as ATP and glutamate into the extracellular space, thereby exacerbating tissue damage and neuroinflammation. Peptide 5 binds to the extracellular loop of the connexin protein, preventing the opening of these hemichannels and the subsequent inflammatory cascade. Notably, at low concentrations, Peptide 5 selectively inhibits hemichannels without disrupting established gap junction communication between cells, although it may inhibit gap junctions at higher concentrations. It has been investigated for its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory potential in treating spinal cord injury, stroke, and various retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

Other names

Cx43 mimetic peptide 5Cx-43 mimetic peptide 5Cx 43 mimetic peptide 5Connexin 43 mimetic peptide 5Connexin43 mimetic peptide 5Connexin-43 mimetic peptide 5VDCFLSRPTEKT