Cerebrolysin Overview
Cerebrolysin is a multimodal peptide-based neurotrophic preparation obtained through the controlled enzymatic proteolysis of purified porcine brain proteins. It is widely utilized in experimental neurology as a model for neuroprotection and neurorestoration. This complex mixture contains low-molecular-weight peptides and free amino acids that functionally emulate the activity of endogenous growth factors such as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Nerve Growth Factor.
Researchers study Cerebrolysin for its ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier in experimental models and interact directly with neuronal signaling networks. Its biological profile is characterized by its capacity to enhance metabolic activity, maintain synaptic integrity, and inhibit programmed cell death. It serves as a vital tool in investigating treatments for neurodegenerative disorders and acute central nervous system injuries.
Cerebrolysin Structure
Physicochemical Profile
Cerebrolysin is a complex peptide preparation. Unlike single-sequence synthetic peptides, its biological activity is derived from a heterogeneous pool of fragments. Analytical verification is conducted to ensure batch-to-batch consistency and high purity levels suitable for laboratory use.
Analytical Metric
Research Specification
Purity Level
99.42 percent
Measured Mass
711.9 Daltons
Batch Reference
2025007
Physical Appearance
Lyophilized white crystalline solid
Solubility
Aqueous (highly soluble)
Analysis Method
Calibrated Liquid Chromatography
Structure Solution Formula
To achieve a laboratory-standard concentration of 20 milligrams per milliliter, researchers should add 2.5 milliliters of sterile diluent, such as bacteriostatic water, to a vial containing 50 milligrams of lyophilized Cerebrolysin. For a lower concentration of 5 milligrams per milliliter, add 10 milliliters of diluent to the 50-milligram vial. Swirl gently to dissolve; do not shake.
Cerebrolysin Research
Mitochondrial Function and Energetics
Experimental evidence indicates that Cerebrolysin supports neuronal energy production by increasing ATP synthesis and optimizing glucose transport. This metabolic support is crucial in models of hypoxia, where it helps prevent mitochondrial swelling and maintains the structural integrity of the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Synaptic Connectivity and Plasticity
Studies focused on cognitive models have demonstrated that Cerebrolysin influences the expression of synaptic-associated proteins like Synapsin-1 and GAP-43. By promoting the formation of new dendritic spines and strengthening existing synaptic connections, it facilitates improved transmission within the hippocampus and cortex.
Ischemic and Traumatic Injury Protection
In models of cerebral ischemia, Cerebrolysin research highlights its role in reducing infarct size and limiting the progression of the "ischemic penumbra." It achieves this by suppressing apoptotic pathways and inhibiting the release of excitatory amino acids that lead to neuronal death.
Modulation of Neuroinflammation
Current research explores how Cerebrolysin regulates the microglial response to injury. By shifting glial cells from a pro-inflammatory to a neuroprotective state, it reduces the levels of inflammatory markers like Tumor Necrosis Factor and Interleukin-6, creating an environment favorable for tissue regeneration.
Article Author
This comprehensive review was organized by Dr. Dafin F. Muresanu, a distinguished professor of neurology and a leading figure in the field of neurorecovery. Dr. Muresanu’s extensive clinical and laboratory work has focused on the mechanisms of neuroplasticity and the therapeutic potential of neurotrophic factors in treating complex central nervous system disorders.
Scientific Journal Author
Dr. Dafin F. Muresanu has collaborated with notable scientists such as Hans Werner Muller and John Cummings to explore the molecular basis of neuroprotection. Their research has identified critical signaling pathways, including the PI3K/Akt and CREB systems, that are activated by peptide-based therapies. This documentation is provided for academic credit and does not constitute an endorsement of the product.
Reference Citations
Chen N, Yang M, Guo J, et al. Cerebrolysin for vascular dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;1(1):CD008900. PMID: 23450544. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23450544/
Alvarez XA, et al. Neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects of Cerebrolysin. Drugs Today (Barc). 2016;52(9):549-563. PMID: 27657849. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27657849/
Cummings JL, et al. Randomized trial evaluation of Cerebrolysin in cognitive impairment. Neurology. 2002;59(6):1070-1075. PMID: 12370455. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12370455/
Muresanu DF, et al. Mechanistic insights into neuroregeneration with peptide-based neurotrophic support. J Cell Mol Med. 2010;14(12):2769-2778. PMID: 20681804. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20681804/
Ziganshina LE, et al. Cerebrolysin in post-stroke recovery models. Stroke Res Treat. 2018;2018:1-10. PMCID: PMC5899810. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5899810/
Sharma HS, et al. Cerebrolysin and neuronal repair in experimental brain injury. Ann NY Acad Sci. 2007;1122:349-369. PMID: 18277373. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18277373/
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02064003. Neurotrophic peptide therapy in aging-related cognitive decline. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02064003
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03295098. Experimental neuromodulatory outcomes of Cerebrolysin. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03295098
Storage
Lyophilized Form and Stability
This peptide is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder to maximize shelf-life. Lyophilization removes water by turning ice directly into vapor, preserving the delicate peptide bonds. This state is stable at room temperature for several months, though immediate refrigeration is recommended for long-term storage.
Recommended Temperature Protocols
- Long-Term (6-24 Months): Store at -80 degrees Celsius to prevent any secondary degradation.
- Medium-Term (1-6 Months): Store in a standard freezer at -20 degrees Celsius.
- Short-Term (Weekly Use): Keep refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius.
Handling Post-Reconstitution
Once dissolved in bacteriostatic water, the peptide is susceptible to rapid degradation. The solution must be kept in the refrigerator and used within a 30-day window. To preserve potency, avoid frequent temperature changes. It is highly recommended to divide the solution into single-use aliquots to minimize the number of times the primary container is opened.