Review · PMID 41490200
Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions — VialBase Research
Selank identified among neuroactive peptides enhancing BDNF and HGF/c-Met pathways
Last updated · 2026 · Rahman OF, Lee SJ, Seeds WA · J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev
Key findings
- Selank identified among neuroactive peptides enhancing BDNF and HGF/c-Met pathways
- Critical to neuroplasticity and musculoskeletal recovery
- Grouped with semax and dihexa for neuroactive properties
- Preclinical promise but lack of clinical trials noted
Selank in Orthopaedic Peptide Therapeutics Review (PMID: 41490200)
Review Scope
- Comprehensive review of therapeutic peptides in orthopaedic medicine
- Covers wound healing (BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu), GH secretagogues, recovery agents, and neuroactive peptides
- Selank grouped with Semax and Dihexa as neuroactive peptides
Key Points on Selank
- Enhances BDNF expression (brain-derived neurotrophic factor)
- Modulates HGF/c-Met pathways critical to neuroplasticity
- Relevant to musculoskeletal recovery through neuroplasticity mechanisms
- Preclinical evidence promising but clinical trials lacking
Relevance
Positions Selank in the broader therapeutic peptide landscape beyond psychiatry/neurology. The BDNF and neuroplasticity mechanisms have implications for musculoskeletal recovery, pain modulation, and rehabilitation.