Dihexa
An experimental angiotensin IV-derived hexapeptide investigated preclinically for potent synaptogenic and pro-cognitive effects. There is essentially no human data; use is entirely exploratory and its long-term safety is unknown.
01 Overview
Dihexa (N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide) is a small peptide derived from angiotensin IV, developed in academic research as a candidate for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. In rodent models it showed striking effects on synapse formation, reportedly acting through hepatocyte growth factor / c-Met signalling.
It has not undergone human clinical trials. It is sold as a research chemical and used by a small number of biohackers, but because it powerfully promotes synaptogenesis and interacts with a growth-factor pathway implicated in cancer, its safety in humans is completely uncharacterised.
02 Mechanism
Proposed to potentiate hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signalling at its c-Met receptor, driving synaptogenesis and dendritic spine formation; derived from the pro-cognitive angiotensin IV system.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exploratory | 5–45 mg/day | Oral | No validated human dose; ranges are anecdotal only. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synaptogenesis / cognitive enhancementPotent effects on synapse formation and memory in rodents; unconfirmed in humans. | Preclinical | ||
| NeuroprotectionReported in Alzheimer's models only. | Preclinical |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unknown human safety profileNo human trials of any kind. | Moderate | Unknown | Unconfirmed | |
| Theoretical cancer/proliferation riskHGF/c-Met signalling is implicated in tumour growth, raising a theoretical concern with chronic potent activation. | Severe | Unknown | Unconfirmed |