Thymosin Alpha 1

Thymosin Alpha 1 (Tα1)

Primary Function: Immune modulation, antiviral activity, immune system support
Research Use: Immunodeficiency studies, chronic viral infections, cancer immunotherapy
Molecular Formula: C129H215N33O55
CAS Number: 62304-98-7
Synonyms: Tα1, Thymalfasin

Description:
Thymosin Alpha 1 (Tα1) is a naturally occurring peptide fragment derived from prothymosin alpha, produced by the thymus gland. It is widely researched for its ability to enhance immune system function, particularly by promoting T-cell maturation and activity, modulating cytokine production, and enhancing innate immune response. Tα1 is being investigated in models involving chronic viral infections (e.g., Hepatitis B and C, HIV), cancer, and immunodeficiency syndromes, due to its potent immunoregulatory effects.

Mechanism of Action:

• Enhances CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell activity
• Increases production of Th1 cytokines (e.g., IFN-γ, IL-2)
• Promotes dendritic cell function and antigen presentation
• Inhibits viral replication and tumor cell growth in immunosuppressed models

Key Research Areas:

• Viral infections (HBV, HCV, HIV, HPV)
• Cancer immunotherapy (melanoma, NSCLC)
• Immunodeficiency conditions
• Sepsis and post-surgical immune recovery

History of Discovery:
Thymosin Alpha 1 was isolated in the 1970s by Dr. Allan Goldstein and his team at George Washington University, who discovered it as part of a family of thymic peptides essential for T-cell development. It has since been studied in over 70 clinical trials worldwide and received regulatory approval in several countries for chronic viral infections and immune-related disorders under the brand name Zadaxin.

Case Studies:

1. Hepatitis B Treatment (2004, Hepatology): Tα1 improved viral clearance and liver function markers when combined with interferon in chronic HBV patients. [Hepatology. 2004;39(4):1065–1073.]
2. Melanoma Immunotherapy (2011, J Immunother): Tα1 enhanced immune checkpoint therapy, increasing tumor suppression and overall survival. [J Immunother. 2011;34(3):273–279.]
3. Sepsis Recovery (2020, Crit Care): Administration of Thymosin Alpha 1 improved immune regulation and reduced 28-day mortality in septic patients. [Crit Care. 2020;24(1):54.]

Packaging Information:

• Form: Lyophilized powder
• Purity: ≥ 99%
• For research use only. Not for human or veterinary use.