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Research peptide

P21

P21 (P021) is a synthetic peptide designed as a mimetic of an active region of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). It has been studied in animal models of neurogenesis and cognitive aging and is not authorized as a medicine by Health Canada.

By The Peptides Codex Editorial TeamReviewed July 10, 2026
Length
4 aa
Class
Research peptide
Function
CNTF-mimetic studied for neurogenesis in animal models
Context
Preclinical research compound (not authorized by Health Canada)

Small neurotrophic-mimetic peptide from CNTF research; preclinical only.

Also known as: P021 · CNTF-derived peptide

Part of the Neuropeptides & signaling cluster

Overview

P21 (P021) is a synthetic peptide designed as a mimetic of an active region of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). It has been studied in animal models of neurogenesis and cognitive aging and is not authorized as a medicine by Health Canada.

Source & context

Biological / chemical source: Synthetic mimetic of a ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) region

Primary research or clinical context: Preclinical research compound (not authorized by Health Canada)

Design concept

Researchers reduced the active region of CNTF to a short, chemically stabilized peptide intended to cross the blood–brain barrier. The core is an acetylated tetrapeptide bearing an adamantane modification, illustrating peptidomimetic design strategies.

Evidence status

Published findings on P21 come from preclinical rodent studies, including models of Alzheimer-type pathology and cognitive aging. There are no completed human clinical trials, and this page does not present it as a treatment.

FAQ about P21

What is P21?+

P21 (P021) is a synthetic peptide designed as a mimetic of an active region of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). It has been studied in animal models of neurogenesis and cognitive aging and is not authorized as a medicine by Health Canada.

Is P21 an approved medicine?+

P21 is discussed here as a research / educational topic. Preclinical research compound (not authorized by Health Canada). This is not medical advice.

What is the typical length of P21?+

P21 is commonly described as approximately 4 amino acids (Research peptide).

Related peptides

References & further reading

  1. 1.PubMed — Bolognin et al., rescue of cognitive-aging with a neurogenic compound (2014, PMID 24702821)
  2. 2.PubMed — Kazim et al., neurotrophic peptidergic compound in a triple-transgenic AD model (2014, PMID 25046994)
Disclaimer: Educational content only. Not medical advice. Not instructions for human use. Research peptides and unapproved products may be restricted or illegal to market for human consumption in your jurisdiction. Consult qualified professionals and applicable law.
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Cite this: Peptides Codex — P21 educational profile.
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