Cortagen vs P21
A side-by-side research comparison of Cortagen and P21 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Cortagen | P21 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Cortagen (Brain Cortex Peptide) | P21 (CNTF-Derived Tetrapeptide) |
| Category | Cognitive & Nootropic | Cognitive & Nootropic |
| Status | Research compound | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Regulates gene expression in cerebral cortex neurons, modulating neurotransmitter receptor density, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal energy metabolism. | Mimics CNTF neurogenesis-enhancing portion by increasing BDNF and activating PI3K/Akt. Inhibits LIF signaling to selectively promote neural stem cell proliferation. |
| Molecular weight | ~420 Da | ~450 Da |
| Half-life | ~2-4 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Bioavailability | ~70% oral (as capsule); ~85% subcutaneous | Moderate (crosses BBB) |
| Typical dose | 10 mg | 50-100 mcg/kg |
| Frequency | Daily for 10-15 days | Daily |
| Route | Oral capsule or subcutaneous injection | Intranasal or Subcutaneous |
Cortagen reported benefits
- Cerebral cortex optimization
- Cognitive function improvement
- Memory enhancement
- Neuroprotection
P21 reported benefits
- Hippocampal neurogenesis
- BDNF increase
- Cognitive enhancement
- BBB penetrant
- No appetite suppression
- Dendritic branching
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.