What is Dihexa??
Dihexa (PNB-0408, CAS 1239264-98-2) is a small peptidomimetic derived from angiotensin IV (Ang IV) that potentiates hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signalling at the MET receptor. Molecular formula C₂₄H₃₉N₃O₄, MW 437.58 g/mol. Unlike classical nootropics, Dihexa operates by stabilising HGF–MET complexes, driving de novo synaptogenesis — the formation of new dendritic spines and synaptic connections — rather than simply modulating existing neurotransmitter systems. In preclinical studies it outperformed BDNF in spine density and was estimated to be 10⁷-fold more potent than BDNF at synaptogenesis. It is highly lipophilic and CNS-penetrant, active via sc, ip, and transdermal routes.
Research Applications
HGF/MET Synaptogenesis
HGF–MET complex stabilisation, dendritic spine formation, synaptic density quantification by microscopy
Cognitive Function
Morris Water Maze, radial arm maze, NOR — spatial memory and learning in aged/lesioned rodent models
Neurodegeneration Models
Scopolamine-induced amnesia, cholinergic lesion, Alzheimer’s-like transgenic model reversal
vs BDNF Potency Comparison
10⁷× BDNF potency at synaptogenesis — dose-response and receptor pathway comparison studies
Neuroplasticity & Repair
Post-stroke and TBI recovery, dendritic arborisation, long-term potentiation (LTP) modulation
Quick Specs
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Purity | ≥99% by HPLC — every batch |
| CAS Number | 1239264-98-2 |
| Also Known As | PNB-0408, N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₄H₃₉N₃O₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 437.58 g/mol |
| Mechanism | HGF/MET receptor complex potentiation → synaptogenesis |
| Identity | MS molecular weight confirmed — every batch |
| COA | Janoshik-independent, publicly verifiable |
| Manufacture | In-house Fmoc SPPS — Qingdao, China |
| Storage | -20°C sealed | 2–8°C reconstituted (2–4 weeks) |
| Shelf Life | 24 months unopened |