Thymosin Alpha-1

Thymosin Alpha-1

Thymosin Alpha-1 (Tα1) is a 28-amino acid peptide naturally derived from prothymosin alpha, a protein produced by the thymus gland. First isolated and characterised in the 1970s, Tα1 has been extensively studied for its role in modulating innate and adaptive immune responses. It is one of the most well-characterised immunomodulatory peptides in the research literature, with a broad body of preclinical and clinical data supporting its investigation across infectious disease, oncology, and immunodeficiency models.

Mechanism of Action

Thymosin Alpha-1 exerts its immunomodulatory effects primarily through activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly TLR2 and TLR9, on dendritic cells and macrophages. This triggers downstream signalling via MyD88 and NF-κB pathways, promoting the maturation of dendritic cells and enhancing T-cell differentiation — particularly towards Th1 responses. Tα1 also upregulates MHC class I and II expression, augments natural killer (NK) cell activity, and has been shown to modulate cytokine profiles including IL-2, IL-12, and IFN-γ.

Research Applications

• Innate and adaptive immune response modulation studies
• Dendritic cell maturation and antigen presentation research
• T-cell differentiation and Th1/Th2 balance investigation
• NK cell activity and cytotoxicity assays
• Infectious disease and immunodeficiency preclinical models

Specifications

• Molecular Formula: C₁₂₉H₂₁₅N₃₃O₅₅
• Molecular Weight: 3108.4 g/mol
• CAS Number: 62304-98-7
• Purity: ≥98%
• Form: Lyophilised powder
• Storage: -20°C
• Shelf Life: 24 months

This product is intended for legitimate laboratory and analytical research use only. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumer use.