Dihexa
N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide
Popular for:Cognitive enhancement, synaptogenesis, HGF/c-Met agonist
17
Total Studies
8
Human Studies
Animal
Evidence Level
Not Approved
FDA Status
Overview
Dihexa (N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide) is a synthetic peptide analog of angiotensin IV developed at Washington State University. It is one of the most potent cognitive-enhancing compounds identified in research, reported to be approximately 10 million times more potent than BDNF at promoting synaptic connectivity.
Dihexa was designed as a stable, orally bioavailable hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor agonist. Research has focused on its potential for treating cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline, primarily in animal models.
Mechanism of Action
Dihexa acts as a potent agonist of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) / c-Met receptor system in the brain. Activation of c-Met signaling promotes synaptogenesis (formation of new synaptic connections), dendritic spine growth, and neuronal survival. This mechanism is distinct from and potentially complementary to other neurotrophic pathways (BDNF, NGF).
Key Research Benefits
Clinical Evidence Summary
Research Pipeline
17
Total Studies
8
Human Studies
Not FDA-approved. Pre-clinical research compound. Developed at Washington State University. No human clinical trials. The HGF/c-Met pathway has oncogenic implications that require careful evaluation.
Key Studies / PubMed References
Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions.
ReviewRahman OF, Lee SJ, Seeds WA · Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Global research & reviews · 2026
PMID: 41490200Effects of an Angiotensin IV Analog on 3-Nitropropionic Acid-Induced Huntington's Disease-Like Symptoms in Rats.
Animal StudyWells RG, Azzam AF, Hiller AL, et al. · Journal of Huntington's disease · 2024
PMID: 38489193Efficiently generate functional hepatic cells from human pluripotent stem cells by complete small-molecule strategy.
In VitroPan T, Wang N, Zhang J, et al. · Stem cell research & therapy · 2022
PMID: 35410439Stem cell, Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor and/or Dihexa to promote limb function recovery in a rat sciatic nerve damage-repair model: Experimental animal studies.
Animal StudyWeiss JB, Phillips CJ, Malin EW, et al. · Annals of medicine and surgery (2012) · 2021
PMID: 34703584AngIV-Analog Dihexa Rescues Cognitive Impairment and Recovers Memory in the APP/PS1 Mouse via the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway.
In VitroSun X, Deng Y, Fu X, et al. · Brain sciences · 2021
PMID: 34827486Side Effects & Safety
Known Interactions
No curated interaction entry is live for Dihexa yet.
Until the interaction table is fully populated, use the interaction checker and related peptides below to explore adjacent compounds and likely research pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research Disclaimer
This page is for research and educational purposes only. The information presented is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Dihexa is not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The studies referenced are linked to their original PubMed sources for verification.