PNC-27
Also called p53-derived membrane-active peptide
An experimental peptide that damages cancer cell membranes in lab and animal studies. It has no demonstrated benefit in people, and the FDA has warned about PNC-27 products marketed as cancer treatments.
Overview
What it is
A synthetic 32-amino-acid peptide that combines a segment of the p53 protein with a membrane-penetrating sequence. The "27" does not refer to its length.
How it works
Lab work suggests it binds HDM-2 (MDM2) on cancer cell membranes and forms pores, causing the cell to burst. This is different from restoring p53 function.
What the research shows
Studies in cancer cell lines, patient-derived ovarian cancer cells and mouse models showed cancer cell death. A ClinicalTrials.gov search in October 2026 returned no registered trials.
Studied for
- Cancer cell membrane disruptionlab, mouse
Safety and regulatory status
Safety and side effects
No reliable human side-effect data exist. An FDA-tested 2017 sample contained bacteria. Anyone who has used an experimental product should tell their oncology team.
Regulatory status
Not FDA approved. FDA lists PNC-27 among products illegally claiming to treat cancer.
Mixing and dosing reference
Reference information only. Read before using this section.
PNC-27 (30 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
- Vial
- 30 mg PNC-27
- Add diluent
- 3 mL
- Concentration
- 10 mg/mL
- 1 unit (U-100)
- 100 mcg in 0.01 mL
- Route
- Subcutaneous
- How often
- Once per day (subcutaneous).
- Typical range
- 100–500 mcg daily with gradual titration.
- Cycle length
- 8–12 weeks; optional extension to 16 weeks.
Standard / Gradual Approach
| Week | Daily Dose (mcg) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 100 mcg (0.10 mg) | 1 unit (0.01 mL) |
| Weeks 3–4 | 200 mcg (0.20 mg) | 2 units (0.02 mL) |
| Weeks 5–8 | 300 mcg (0.30 mg) | 3 units (0.03 mL) |
| Weeks 9–12 | 400 mcg (0.40 mg) | 4 units (0.04 mL) |
| Weeks 13–16 | 500 mcg (0.50 mg) | 5 units (0.05 mL) |
How to mix
- Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/roll until dissolved (do not shake).
- Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light.
Dosing details
- Start: 100 mcg daily for 1–2 weeks; increase by ~100 mcg every 2 weeks as tolerated.
- Target: 300–500 mcg daily by Weeks 5–16.
- Frequency: Once per day (subcutaneous).
- Cycle Length: 8–12 weeks; optional extension to 16 weeks.
- Timing: Any consistent time; rotate injection sites.
Storage
- Lyophilized: Follow the exact product’s labeled storage temperature and expiration instructions; keep the vial dry and protected from light.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); follow product-specific use-by instructions and avoid freeze–thaw.
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening to reduce condensation uptake.
Administration technique
- Clean the vial stopper and skin with alcohol; allow to dry.
- Pinch a skinfold; insert the needle at 45–90° into subcutaneous tissue.
- Do not aspirate for subcutaneous injections; inject slowly and steadily.
- Rotate sites systematically (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to avoid lipohypertrophy.
Important notes
- Use new sterile insulin syringes; dispose in a sharps container.
- Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to reduce local irritation.
- Inject slowly; wait a few seconds before withdrawing the needle.
- Document daily dose and site rotation to maintain consistency.
- Regulatory Warning: PNC-27 has no FDA approval and no established human safety data. This information is strictly educational.
Protocol source: PeptideDosages.com
Common questions
Does PNC-27 kill cancer cells?
In lab and animal models, yes. That is not proof it treats cancer in people.
Are there human trials?
No registered trials were found.
Should it replace cancer treatment?
No. Discuss any research with your oncology team and continue recommended care.
Sources and further reading (5)
- PNC-27 binding to HDM-2 and pore formation. PNAS, 2010.
- FDA. Products illegally claiming to treat cancer (PNC-27 warning).
- PNC-27 and HDM-2 in mitochondrial membranes. Ann Clin Lab Sci, 2024.
- ClinicalTrials.gov search, Oct 2026.
- Source summary: PeptideDosages.com research overview (rewritten for NVO).
Laboratory research material: PNC27 Research Use Only