Longevity research asks what drives aging inside the body, and whether any of it can be changed. The best-known map of the subject is the Hallmarks of Aging, set out by López-Otín and colleagues in 2013 (Cell 153:1194) and widened to twelve linked hallmarks in 2023 (Cell 186:243). The list includes damaged DNA, shortening telomeres, failing mitochondria, worn-out stem cells, cells that stop dividing but do not die, and long-running inflammation. It gives a way to judge any proposed treatment. Research peptides touch a small part of this map. SS-31 and MOTS-c are studied for failing mitochondria, Epithalon for telomeres and cells that have stopped dividing, and GHK-Cu for aging skin and tissue. This section collects that research. It makes no medical claims and follows our evidence labels.
Compounds in longevity research
- Epithalon Epithalon is a four amino acid peptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly). Scientists have tested it in cells and rodents for effects on telomerase, the pineal gland and lifespan. Preclinical
- NAD+ A coenzyme that cells need for energy, DNA repair and sirtuin enzymes. Evidence runs from basic chemistry to small human trials with mixed results. Mixed Evidence
- MOTS-c A 16-amino-acid peptide coded in mitochondrial DNA. Tested in mice and small human groups for AMPK signaling, blood sugar control and exercise-like effects. Preclinical / Early Clinical
- SS-31 / Elamipretide A lab-made peptide (elamipretide) that binds cardiolipin in mitochondria. Tested in animals and human trials for how well mitochondria make energy. Early Clinical
- GHK-Cu A three-amino-acid peptide that carries copper. Hundreds of cell and animal studies tested it for collagen, wound healing and gene activity. Preclinical
- Glutathione Glutathione is the main antioxidant that cells make. Small human trials have tested supplements for redox balance and detox, with mixed results. Human RCTs
- Thymosin Alpha-1 A 28 amino acid thymus peptide tested for T cell growth, TLR signaling and fighting viruses. Approved in several countries for hepatitis B and C and immune uses. Approved Pharma
- Tesamorelin A lab-made form of GHRH, FDA approved for HIV-related lipodystrophy. It cuts deep belly fat by raising the body's own growth hormone. Approved Pharma