Cortistatin
CST · Cortistatin-14 · Cortistatin-17
A neuropeptide structurally related to somatostatin but with distinct immunomodulatory properties, researched for anti-inflammatory effects in autoimmune and inflammatory disease models including Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and sepsis.
Half-Life
~1–5 minutes (IV, like somatostatin); tissue-bound forms may persist longer
MW
1818 Da (CST-17)
Amino Acids
17 AA
Evidence
Preclinical
Regulatory Status
Research peptide. No FDA-approved indications. Active academic research for Crohn's disease, RA, and sepsis applications.
In Plain English
A brain-produced peptide that looks almost identical to somatostatin but acts very differently in the immune system — it's one of the most potent natural inflammation-dampeners ever identified. In animal models of life-threatening inflammation (sepsis, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis), it dramatically reduced injury and mortality. It's exciting because it fights inflammation through multiple pathways simultaneously without being a broad immunosuppressant.
Overview
Cortistatin (CST) is a neuropeptide discovered in the late 1990s expressed predominantly in the cortex and hippocampus of the brain. Despite sharing structural similarity with somatostatin (about 11 of 14 core amino acids identical), cortistatin has distinct biological properties: it binds all five somatostatin receptors (SSTR1-5) but also binds GHSR-1a (ghrelin receptor), MHC class I molecules, and a cortistatin-specific receptor not shared by somatostatin. CST is robustly anti-inflammatory, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokine production from immune cells, and has shown striking efficacy in animal models of septic shock, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
Common Formats
- Lyophilized powder (injectable)
- Research-grade peptide (custom synthesis)
Storage Notes
Lyophilized: -80°C long term, -20°C short term. Protect from light and humidity. Reconstituted in sterile water or saline: use within 24-48 hours or freeze in aliquots.
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Related Compounds
Somatostatin
A 14 (or 28) amino acid cyclic inhibitory neuropeptide produced throughout the body that suppresses growth hormone, insulin, glucagon, and multiple other hormones; the endogenous counterbalance to GHRH.
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
A 28-amino acid neuropeptide and potent immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and neuroprotective properties, with an extensive clinical research history in autoimmune, inflammatory, and pulmonary conditions.
BPC-157
A 15 amino acid peptide derived from human gastric juice, widely researched for its tissue-healing and cytoprotective properties.
KPV
C-terminal tripeptide fragment of alpha-MSH with potent anti-inflammatory and gut-healing properties.
Educational Disclaimer: All information on this page is for educational and research purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.