Cerebrolysin is a peptide preparation from pig brain cells containing various natural active peptide fragments that exhibit neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects similar to the endogenous neurotrophic factors. This unique property makes cerebrolysin a highly potent and effective neuropeptide capable of exerting pharmacodynamic action to enhance physiological, biochemical and neuropathological functions.
This therapeutic peptide improves synapse function, lowers amyloid deposition (a key driver in Alzheimer’s Disease) and increases metabolic activity of neurons. It also prevents the breakdown of glycolysis and enhances protein synthesis, which leads to improved neuronal survival and recovery after ischemic injury. It also scavenges free radicals during CNS injuries and induces protection from intracellular accumulation of Ca2 +, a major cause of neuronal death and apoptosis (Gutmann et al., 2002).
The method of action of this peptide is not yet fully understood. However, it has been shown to modulate inhibitory factors and enhance the synaptic transmission of acetylcholine in the brain. This leads to enhanced memory and cognitive function. In addition, it has been shown to significantly reduce the symptoms of dementia and vascular Alzheimer’s Disease.
Although cerebrolysin is not FDA approved, it has been used in Eastern Europe, Russia, and China for decades, and it has a high safety profile. It is currently undergoing extensive clinical research to determine its effects on multiple neurological disorders, including schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries. This neuropeptide is safe, well tolerated and has a minimal side effect profile that includes only standard injection site redness.