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Thymosin Alpha-1

Thymosin Alpha-1 (Tα1)

Human Evidence
Polypeptide (28 amino acids)PeptidesMW: 3,108 Da

For educational and research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human or animal use. Research peptides are Research Use Only (RUO).

Amino Acid Sequence

Ac-Ser-Asp-Ala-Ala-Val-Asp-Thr-Ser-Ser-Glu-Ile-Thr-Thr-Lys-Asp-Leu-Lys-Glu-Lys-Lys-Glu-Val-Val-Glu-Glu-Ala-Glu-Asn
Research Timeline

Thymosin Alpha-1 Research Milestones

An interactive map of key discoveries, clinical trials, and major findings across 7 research milestones.

1972
Discovery

Isolated from Thymus Tissue

Thymosin Fraction 5 was isolated from calf thymus by Goldstein and White. Thymosin Alpha-1 was later purified as a key active 28-amino-acid component.

1 of 7

Timeline compiled from published research literature for educational reference. Dates reflect first major publication or event; subsequent research continues to refine findings.

What is Thymosin Alpha-1?

Your thymus gland (a small organ behind your breastbone that is most active in childhood) makes a family of proteins called thymosins that help train your immune system. Thymosin Alpha-1 is the most important member of this family. Think of it as a drill sergeant for your immune cells — it helps activate and coordinate the immune response. As a pharmaceutical, it has been used in dozens of countries.

Mechanism of Action

Tα1 is hypothesized to enhance T-cell maturation and function, activate dendritic cells, and modulate the balance between Th1 and Th2 immune responses. It acts through Toll-like receptors (TLR2 and TLR9) and stimulates the production of interferon-alpha and interleukins involved in antiviral and antitumor immunity.

Research Evidence

Human Evidence

Human Evidence

Extensive human clinical data. Approved as Zadaxin® in over 35 countries for hepatitis B treatment and as an immune modifier. Clinical trials have been conducted in hepatitis, cancer adjunct therapy, HIV, and sepsis.

Animal Evidence

Animal Evidence

Animal studies established the immunomodulatory mechanism and safety profile. Preclinical models of infection, cancer, and immunosuppression.

Laboratory Evidence

In-Vitro / Lab

Well-characterized Toll-like receptor interactions. Extensive in vitro studies on T-cell activation, dendritic cell maturation, and cytokine modulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Thymosin Alpha-1 approved as a drug?

Yes. Under the brand name Zadaxin®, it is approved in over 35 countries (not in the US) primarily for hepatitis B treatment and as an immune modulator. It has Orphan Drug status in the US for certain conditions.

Research Areas

Immune modulationHepatitis B/CCancer immunotherapy adjunctVaccine enhancementSepsisImmunodeficiency

Delivery Methods Studied

  • Injectable (subcutaneous)

Stability Notes

Relatively stable peptide. Commercial pharmaceutical preparations (Zadaxin) have established stability profiles. Lyophilized form for research use.

Research Use Only

For educational and research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human or animal use. Research peptides are Research Use Only (RUO).