Davunetide: Molecular Structure
Chemical properties, amino acid sequence, and structural analysis
📌TL;DR
- •Molecular formula: C36H60N10O12
- •Molecular weight: 824.93 Da
- •Half-life: Short plasma half-life; intranasal delivery provides direct CNS access
Amino Acid Sequence
42 amino acids
Formula
C36H60N10O12
Molecular Weight
824.93 Da
Half-Life
Short plasma half-life; intranasal delivery provides direct CNS access
Molecular Structure and Properties#
Davunetide is a synthetic octapeptide with the sequence NAPVSIPQ (Asn-Ala-Pro-Val-Ser-Ile-Pro-Gln). It has a molecular weight of 824.93 Da, molecular formula C36H60N10O12, and CAS number 211439-12-2. The peptide represents the minimal active fragment of the activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP).
Amino Acid Sequence#
NAPVSIPQ
| Property | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence length | 8 amino acids | Octapeptide |
| Molecular weight | 824.93 Da | Free base |
| Molecular formula | C36H60N10O12 | Complete molecule |
| CAS number | 211439-12-2 | Registry identifier |
| Parent protein | ADNP | Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein |
| Key motif | SIP | Tubulin binding motif |
The SIP (Ser-Ile-Pro) motif within the NAPVSIPQ sequence is critical for tubulin binding and microtubule stabilization activity.
Pharmacokinetics#
Davunetide is administered intranasally, providing direct access to the CNS via the olfactory and trigeminal nerve pathways, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. The clinical dose was 30 mg twice daily via nasal spray in the PSP trial. The peptide has a short plasma half-life but achieves therapeutic CNS concentrations through intranasal delivery.
Physicochemical Properties#
- Solubility: Soluble in aqueous buffers
- Stability: Stable as lyophilized powder at -20 degrees C
- Formulation: Nasal spray solution for intranasal administration
- Appearance: White to off-white powder
Molecular Context#
Davunetide belongs to the Neuroprotective category of research peptides. The molecular properties of Davunetide determine its pharmacological behavior, including receptor binding, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Understanding these properties is fundamental to interpreting clinical data and designing research protocols.
Structural Overview#
Davunetide is characterized as: Linear octapeptide derived from activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP).
Amino Acid Sequence Details#
The amino acid sequence of Davunetide is: NAPVSIPQ (Asn-Ala-Pro-Val-Ser-Ile-Pro-Gln). This sequence determines the peptide's three-dimensional structure, receptor binding properties, and biological activity.
Pharmacokinetic Profile#
Half-Life: Short plasma half-life; intranasal delivery provides direct CNS access
The half-life of a peptide influences dosing frequency, duration of effect, and the clinical utility of the compound. Researchers should consider the half-life when designing experimental protocols.
Related Reading#
Frequently Asked Questions About Davunetide
What type of peptide is Davunetide?
Davunetide (NAP, AL-108) is an eight-amino-acid neuroprotective peptide (NAPVSIPQ) derived from activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP). It stabilizes microtubules and has been studied for neurodegenerative diseases including progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and Alzheimer's disease. A phase 2/3 trial in PSP (Boxer et al., 2014) failed to show efficacy, and the developer Allon Therapeutics became insolvent. ExoNavis licensed the compound in 2021 and began a phase 3 trial for ADNP syndrome in 2024.
What is the half-life of Davunetide?
The reported half-life of Davunetide is Short plasma half-life; intranasal delivery provides direct CNS access. Half-life can vary depending on the route of administration, formulation, and individual factors. This information is based on available preclinical or pharmacokinetic data.
What is the amino acid sequence of Davunetide?
The amino acid sequence of Davunetide is NAPVSIPQ (Asn-Ala-Pro-Val-Ser-Ile-Pro-Gln). Linear octapeptide derived from activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP). This sequence determines its biological activity and binding properties.
How stable is Davunetide in storage?
Davunetide is typically supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability. Linear octapeptide derived from activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP). When reconstituted, it should be stored refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C and protected from light. Lyophilized powder should be stored at -20 degrees C.
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