Dihexa
An angiotensin IV analog studied for synaptogenesis via the HGF/MET signaling pathway.
Mechanism of Action
Bioregulator compound with targeted biochemical activity.
Evidence Chain
Dihexa
COMPOUND
1 Research Goal
• Cognitive & Neurological
Evidence Strength
13 articles sourced
Knowledge Graph
(14 connections)Research Goals
(1)Research Evidence
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Overview
Dihexa is an angiotensin IV analog developed by researchers at Washington State University, designed to address the limitations of earlier angiotensin-based cognitive enhancers. Dihexa represents a novel approach to cognitive enhancement through the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met signaling pathway, distinguishing it from other nootropic peptides that primarily target neurotrophic factor expression. It has been described in research literature as one of the most potent cognitive-enhancing compounds studied.
Mechanism of Action
Dihexa acts as an angiotensin IV analog that activates the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway in the brain. HGF activation promotes synaptogenesis — the formation of new synaptic connections — through mechanisms including dendritic arborization and spine remodeling. This pathway is distinct from the BDNF and NGF pathways targeted by other nootropic peptides. Dihexa has been shown to be significantly more potent than BDNF in promoting synaptogenesis in some assay systems, with research suggesting activity at concentrations orders of magnitude lower than other cognitive enhancers.
Research Highlights
Animal studies have demonstrated Dihexa's efficacy in improving learning and memory in models of cognitive impairment, including models of Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline. Research showed that Dihexa can reverse scopolamine-induced learning deficits in rats, with effects described as dramatically superior to BDNF in the same assays. Studies have explored its potential in traumatic brain injury, stroke recovery, and neurodegenerative conditions. The HGF/c-Met pathway represents a novel target for cognitive enhancement research.
Dosage & Administration
In research, Dihexa has been administered via subcutaneous injection and oral routes in animal models. No standardized human dosing protocols exist. For research use only (RUO).
Safety Profile
Preclinical studies have reported favorable safety profiles in animal models. However, long-term safety data in humans is absent. As an investigational peptide, full safety characterization is pending. The potent activity of Dihexa at very low concentrations necessitates careful dosing research. Not approved by the FDA for any indication.
References
Wright JW, et al. Dihexa and cognitive enhancement. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2015. McCoy B, et al. Dihexa and synaptogenesis. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2013. Harding JW, et al. Angiotensin IV and cognition. ACS Chem Neurosci. 2011. All content is for educational and research purposes only.
FDA 2026 Regulatory Update
As of April–June 2026, this compound was among the 14 peptides formally removed from the FDA's Category 2 restricted compounding list following review by the Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee (PCAC). This regulatory shift permits licensed compounding pharmacies to produce and dispense this compound under appropriate oversight, subject to final 503A Bulks List adjudication expected following the July 23–24, 2026 PCAC meeting. This does not constitute FDA approval for therapeutic use. All information on this page is for research purposes only.
Related Compounds
Synergy & Compatibility
(5)Computational assessment of bio-regulatory compatibility with compounds sharing research goals. Scores reflect half-life alignment, receptor target overlap, and bioavailability data.
Computational assessment based on available pharmacology data. Does not account for individual variability, dose-dependent effects, or unstudied interactions. For research use only.
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