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Large human trials Energy and WellnessImmune Health

Thymogen

Also called Glu-Trp; oglufanide; IM862

A two-amino-acid peptide studied for effects on immune signaling. Its research includes cell work, small clinical reports and a negative phase 3 cancer trial.

Overview

What it is

A dipeptide of glutamic acid and tryptophan, also known as oglufanide (studied clinically as IM862). It is not thymosin alpha-1.

How it works

In a 2023 lab study using donor immune and blood-vessel cells, it lowered some inflammatory signals and raised others. "Immunomodulation" describes this better than "immune boosting."

What the research shows

A small 2011 Russian report described improved immune measures and post-surgery outcomes in older patients before tumor surgery. A phase 3 trial of IM862 in 202 people with HIV-associated Kaposi sarcoma found a 23% response rate versus 21% with placebo, no benefit, and shorter time to progression.

Studied for

  • Immune signaling in donor cellslab
  • Pre-surgery immune support in older patientssmall report
  • Kaposi sarcomaphase 3, negative

Safety and regulatory status

Safety and side effects

No long-term safety data across populations or routes. People on cancer treatment, immune-suppressing therapy or being treated for serious infection should involve their care team.

Regulatory status

Not approved by the FDA for any use.

Common questions

Does Thymogen prevent colds?

That has not been shown. Changes in lab immune markers are not the same as fewer infections.

Is Thymogen a cancer treatment?

No. The phase 3 cancer trial did not show a benefit.

Is it the same as thymosin alpha-1?

No. They are different peptides with separate evidence.

Related in Energy and Wellness

CrystagenEarly human data GlutathioneEarly human data L-CarnitineFDA approved NAD+Early human data Vitamin B12FDA approved
Sources and further reading (5)
  1. PubChem. Thymogen / Glu-Trp compound record.
  2. National Cancer Institute. Oglufanide disodium drug dictionary entry.
  3. Alpha-glutamyl-tryptophan, cytokine secretion and ICAM-1 in vitro. Cell and Tissue Biology, 2023.
  4. Noy A, et al. IM862 in AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma: phase 3 trial. J Clin Oncol, 2005.
  5. Source summary: PeptideDosages.com research overview (rewritten for NVO).
Educational information only. This content summarizes published research for general education. It is not medical advice, not a recommendation to use any substance, and not an instruction for human or animal use. It does not describe any Research Product sold on this site.