TB4-Frag 500

TB4-Frag 500 is a fragment of a naturally occurring peptide called Thymosin Beta-4 (TB4) combined with salcaprozate sodium (SNAC) for enhanced absorption.

Thymosin Beta-4 Frag(1-4) (Ac-SDKP) is a naturally occurring tetrapeptide from thymosin beta-4 that is made up of the amino acids Ac-Ser-Asp-Lys-Pro. It is a shorter fragment of the original peptide, which has been found to have better oral bioavailability and approximately 10 times more potent by weight compared to the full-length peptide. This is due to its smaller size and modified structure, which allows it to be more easily absorbed by the body when taken orally.

Research underscores its regenerative properties, ability to modulate the immune system, address inflammaging,and its supportive roles in gut health, cardiovascular health and reducing kidney/liver fibrosis.* It may even inform a more natural approach for high blood pressure due to its association with angiotensin-converting enzyme.*

Salcaprozate sodium, or SNAC, is a cutting-edge ingredient created to promote intestinal permeation. It was originally developed for improving the oral delivery of macromolecules. Clinical research demonstrates SNAC’s ability to significantly enhance absorption, increasing peptide uptake by up to nine times without disrupting the integrity of intestinal tight junctions.  This innovative approach supports optimal absorption for maximum effectiveness.

Peptide Bioavailability

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that are being extensively researched for their potential therapeutic benefits. While they are commonly associated with subcutaneous (SubQ) Administration, recent advancements in peptide modification have allowed for better oral bioavailability. In fact, many peptides can now be taken orally in pill or capsule form, making them more convenient and accessible to a wider range of research and clinical studies.

Thymosin Beta 4 is a peptide with a wide range of potential therapeutic benefits. It has been shown to promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and stimulate tissue repair in numerous animal studies.

However, in its original form, TB4 had to be administration subcutaneously to be effective. Thymosin Beta4 Fragment SDKP is a modified form of TB4 and TB500 that has been shown to have better oral bioavailability, allowing it to be effective when taken orally rather than via SubQ administration.

A study published in the Journal of Chromatography B demonstrated that Thymosin Beta4 Fragment SDKP had approximately 30% oral bioavailability in rats, which is significantly higher than the less than 1% bioavailability observed with TB500. Another study published in the Journal of Peptide Science showed that Thymosin Beta4 Fragment SDKP had a longer half-life and a greater area under the curve (AUC) than TB500 when taken orally in rats. These findings provide strong scientific evidence that modifications to peptide sequences, such as fragmenting longer sequences, can significantly improve their bioavailability and effectiveness when taken orally.

The development of oral availability is an exciting advancement in the field of peptide therapeutics. While subQ administrations have been the primary mode of administration for many peptides, recent research has shown that modifying the salt form of a peptide like BPC-157, can improve its oral bioavailability, making it a viable alternative to injections. This offers numerous benefits, including greater convenience, reduced pain and discomfort, and improved compliance.

With ongoing research and development, it is likely that we will continue to see progress in the field of orally available peptides, providing new treatment options