FOXO4-DRI
What it is
FOXO4-DRI is a synthetic cell-penetrating peptide built as a D-retro-inverso isoform, meaning it uses D-type (mirror-image) amino acids in a reversed sequence, which is where the "DRI" in the name comes from. It is a relatively long peptide of roughly 46 amino acids derived from the FOXO4 transcription factor, and the D-amino-acid design makes it resistant to protease breakdown.
Research context and categorization
FOXO4-DRI is generally grouped under the anti-aging and longevity research category, and more specifically it is described as a senolytic candidate, meaning a compound studied for its effect on senescent (aged, non-dividing) cells. In laboratory and preclinical work it is commonly discussed in relation to the interaction between the FOXO4 protein and the p53 protein, which is thought to help senescent cells avoid apoptosis. FOXO4-DRI has been investigated for whether it can disrupt that FOXO4-p53 interaction and thereby prompt selective clearance of senescent cells in cell culture and rodent models. It is also studied in the context of age-related tissue changes, fibrosis-related conditions such as keloids, and certain cancer-cell models. These uses are investigational only. FOXO4-DRI has not been tested in completed human clinical trials, and the effects described in the literature are not confirmed or approved outcomes in humans.
Status
- Regulatory status: Research-only. FOXO4-DRI is not FDA-approved for any indication, has no approved application on the public record, and is supplied for laboratory and research use only.
- Sport status: Prohibited under the WADA Prohibited List. As a peptide with no current approval by any governmental regulatory health authority for human therapeutic use, it falls under the S0 Non-Approved Substances category, which is prohibited at all times, in and out of competition.
Reconstitution notes (general)
FOXO4-DRI is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder that is dissolved before use in the laboratory. The working concentration is a simple ratio: concentration equals the milligrams of peptide in the vial divided by the millilitres of bacteriostatic water added. For example, a 10 mg vial reconstituted with 3 mL of bacteriostatic water gives about 3.33 mg/mL. To work out a target concentration without doing the arithmetic by hand, use the calculator at our reconstitution and blend calculators.
Dilution and handling notes (compound-specific)
Reported reconstitution ranges for a 10 mg vial run from roughly 2 mL of bacteriostatic water (about 5 mg/mL) to 3 mL (about 3.33 mg/mL), with the larger water volume chosen when a more dilute, easier-to-measure solution is preferred. To dissolve the powder cake gently, the diluent is typically run down the inside glass wall of the vial rather than squirted directly onto the powder, then the vial is left to sit briefly and swirled or rolled between the palms rather than shaken. A properly reconstituted solution should read as clear and colorless. Because this is a long peptide, it is reported to be sensitive to oxidation and to repeated freeze-thaw cycles, so the practical approach is to reconstitute what will be used, avoid vigorous shaking, and keep the material protected from light. If the solution stays cloudy, shows particles, or will not clear, that is a sign the material is degraded or was handled too harshly.
Handling and storage
Store reconstituted material refrigerated at 2 to 8 C and out of direct light. Wipe the vial stopper with an alcohol swab before drawing, and label the vial with the mix date so the age of the solution is tracked. A refrigerated solution is generally treated as usable for roughly a 4-week window. Discard the vial if the contents become cloudy or discolored or develop floaters, and keep lyophilized (unmixed) powder frozen until it is prepared for use.
Related reading
Tools and supplies
- Reconstitution & blend calculators
- Bacteriostatic Water 30 ml
- Gansulin Metal Reusable Pen
- 3 ml Glass Cartridges (10-pack)
- Complete Starter Kit
For laboratory and research reference only. Educational content, not medical, dosing, injection, or therapeutic guidance, and not intended for human or animal use. Any research uses described are investigational and not confirmed or approved benefits. Confirm anything involving health with a licensed professional. References linked above.