Huberman Lab Podcast: Peptides

Introduction

• Host: Andrew Huberman, Professor of Neurobiology and Ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine.
• Topic: Peptides, with a focus on those used for tissue healing, repair, longevity, and vitality.

Key Points

Overview

• Peptides: Small proteins made up of chains of amino acids. Examples include insulin and oxytocin.
• Discussion Focus: Therapeutic peptides excluding GLP-1 analogs.
• Confusion: Nomenclature of peptides often confusing (e.g., BPC-157, MK-677).
• Categories of Peptides:
  1. Prescription peptides (FDA-approved).
  2. Gray market peptides (questionable safety and efficacy).
  3. Black market peptides (risk of contamination and mislabeling).
• Risk and Efficacy: Importance of sourcing from reliable, clean sources to avoid LPS contamination.

What Are Peptides?

• Peptides: Small proteins (2-50 amino acids) involved in various bodily functions, including hormone activity (e.g., insulin, oxytocin).
• Pleiotropic Effects: Many peptides have multiple effects depending on cell type and conditions.
• Receptors and Pathways: Peptides bind to cell receptors, initiating complex cellular responses.
• Therapeutic Use and Caution: Highlight potential risks, including peptide interactions and tumor growth.

Categories of Therapeutic Peptides

1. Tissue Rejuvenation and Repair

• Peptides in Use:
  • BPC-157: Promotes angiogenesis and fibroblast migration, useful for injuries but has concerns regarding tumor growth.
  • Thymosin Beta-4 (TB-500): Promotes stem cell proliferation and extracellular matrix growth.
• Mechanisms: Increase vascular supply and encourage cell migration and growth.
• Safety and Efficacy: High LD50 (lethal dose 50%), but lack of human clinical trials. Potential risk includes tumor growth.

2. Peptides for Metabolism and Growth

• Growth Hormone Pathway:
  • Growth Hormone (GH): Secreted by pituitary gland, regulates tissue growth, metabolism, and energy.
  • IGF-1: Released by liver in response to GH, involved in metabolism and growth.
• Categories of GH-Promoting Peptides:
  • Type 1 Peptides: GHRH analogs, including Sermorelin (FDA-approved) and Tesamorelin.
  • Type 2 Peptides: GHRPs like Ipamorelin, Hexarelin; known to increase growth hormone but may also increase cortisol and prolactin.
• Safety and Caution: Risk of receptor desensitization, increased tumor growth, and other side effects.

3. Peptides for Longevity

• Key Peptide: Epithelon (epitalon), mimics epithalamin from the pineal gland.
  • Effects: Anti-inflammatory, telomere lengthening, circadian rhythm regulation.
  • Animal Studies: Mixed results; potential for anti-aging effects but lacks clinical trials in humans.
• Thymosin Beta-4: Also considered for potential longevity benefits.

4. Peptides for Vitality (Mood and Libido)

• Melanocortin System:
  • Peptides: Melanotan I, II, III, IV, V, and PT-141 (FDA-approved to treat hypoactive sexual desire in women).
  • Effects: Increase pigmentation, potentially enhance mood and libido.
  • Risks: Nausea, blood pressure changes, concern for melanoma patients.
• Kispeptin:
  • Role: Stimulates GNRH, leading to LH and FSH release, upstream of sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
  • Uses: Treatment for hypothalamic amenorrhea, studied for effects on vitality and libido.
  • Cautions: Recently discovered; full range of effects not completely known.

Sponsorships and Additional Information

• Sponsors: Matina (yerba mate), Levels (continuous glucose monitor), Juve (red light therapy), AG1 (vitamin/mineral drink), Element (electrolytes).
• Key Points: Each sponsor highlighted with its unique benefits, emphasizing Andrew Huberman’s personal use and endorsement. Links and offers provided for further exploration.