Pancragen
What it is
Pancragen is a synthetic short-chain peptide, commonly described as the tetrapeptide lysine-glutamic acid-aspartic acid-tryptophan (Lys-Glu-Asp-Trp, or KEDW), with a molecular weight around 576 g/mol. It belongs to the Khavinson peptide bioregulator family developed at the Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, a group of short peptides each associated with a specific tissue type.
Research context and categorization
Pancragen is generally grouped as a Khavinson bioregulator with a metabolic and endocrine focus, specifically associated with pancreatic tissue. In neutral research-framed terms, it is studied in the context of the endocrine pancreas and the islets of Langerhans, and is commonly discussed in relation to insulin-related gene expression and beta-cell differentiation markers in cell-culture and laboratory models. Published work from the originating group has investigated whether the peptide is linked to changes in pancreatic differentiation factors and cellular signaling.
These uses are investigational. Pancragen is not an approved therapy, most published literature originates from the institute associated with its development, and independent replication remains limited. Any effects described in that literature should be read as unconfirmed research observations rather than established or approved benefits.
Status
- Regulatory status: Research-only, not FDA-approved. Pancragen has no approved human indication in the United States and is handled as a research chemical. Some sources note separate registration in Russia, which does not confer FDA approval.
- Sport status: Not specifically listed on the WADA Prohibited List. Short Khavinson bioregulator peptides such as KEDW are not named in the current list, and they are not growth-hormone secretagogues or growth factors of the type covered under the S2 peptide hormones and growth factors class. Because WADA also applies catch-all language and updates its list annually, anyone in a tested sport should confirm current status directly with WADA or their anti-doping authority.
Reconstitution notes (general)
Concentration equals the milligrams of peptide in the vial divided by the millilitres of bacteriostatic water added. For example, a 20 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water gives 10 mg/mL. To plan a target concentration, use the calculator at /pages/tools.
Dilution and handling notes (compound-specific)
Pancragen ships as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder and is reconstituted with bacteriostatic water before use in liquid form. Vials are commonly sold in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 50 mg sizes, so the water-per-vial amount is chosen to reach a workable concentration for the vial size, with roughly 1 to 2 mL being a typical range. Adding more water simply yields a lower, easier-to-measure concentration.
As a small, highly water-soluble tetrapeptide, Pancragen generally dissolves readily and forms a clear solution, and it is less prone to the gelling, clouding, or precipitation seen with larger or more hydrophobic peptides. Standard practice still applies: add the water slowly by aiming the stream down the inside wall of the vial rather than directly onto the powder, then swirl or roll the vial gently until fully dissolved, usually within a minute or two. Do not shake vigorously, since agitation can foam or stress the peptide for no benefit. One compound-specific quirk is the tryptophan (Trp) residue at the end of the sequence: its indole side chain is light-sensitive, so limit exposure to bright or direct light during and after mixing. If any haze, particulate, or floaters persist after gentle swirling, the solution should not be considered clear.
Handling and storage
Store the lyophilized powder cold, and keep reconstituted solution refrigerated at 2 to 8 C, out of direct light. Wipe the stopper with an alcohol swab before drawing, and label the vial with the mix date. Treat a refrigerated reconstituted vial as usable for roughly a 4-week window. Discard if the solution turns cloudy or discolored, or if floaters or particulates appear.
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.