1. Epithalon — The Telomere Peptide

Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide developed by the Russian Institute of Gerontology that may stimulate the pineal gland to restore melatonin production and activate telomerase — the enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length. Studies over four decades show potential associations between epithalon use in aging populations and extended telomere length biomarkers.

2. MOTS-c — Mitochondrial Longevity Signaling

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded in the mitochondrial genome. It activates AMPK pathways — the cell's energy-sensing master regulator — improving metabolic flexibility, insulin sensitivity, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Circulating MOTS-c levels decline significantly with age, suggesting exogenous supplementation may support restoration of these longevity-associated pathways.

3. Thymosin Alpha-1 — Immune Fortification

Thymosin Alpha-1 is a 28-amino-acid peptide naturally produced by the thymus that supports T-cell maturation, dendritic cell activation, and cytokine regulation. Approved in over 37 countries for hepatitis B and C, it is particularly relevant for longevity protocols as the immune system declines with age (immunosenescence), potentially supporting restoration of adaptive immune competence.

4. NAD+ — The Foundation of Cellular Energy

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme required for over 500 enzymatic reactions including mitochondrial ATP production, DNA damage repair via PARP enzymes, and sirtuin activation. NAD+ levels decline by approximately 50% between ages 40 and 60, contributing to widespread metabolic and cellular decline. Intravenous or subcutaneous NAD+ protocols may support restoration of cellular energy and repair capacity.

5. Semax — Cognitive and Neuroprotective Longevity

Semax is a synthetic ACTH 4-7 fragment that significantly upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), promoting neuroplasticity and neuroprotection. It may support working memory, executive function, and stress resilience. As a longevity compound, it addresses the cognitive dimension of aging — increasingly recognized as central to quality of life outcomes.

Building a Comprehensive Longevity Stack

A comprehensive longevity protocol typically combines compounds that address multiple aging mechanisms in parallel: telomere maintenance (epithalon), mitochondrial function (MOTS-c, NAD+), immune competence (thymosin alpha-1), and cognitive preservation (semax). Protocols are cyclical, individualized by clinical assessment, and monitored with biomarker tracking.

Medically reviewed by Romy Fontoura, MD

The Top 5 Peptides for Anti-Aging and Longevity in 2026 | Auryx

The top 5 peptides for anti-aging and longevity in 2026 — epithalon, MOTS-c, thymosin alpha-1, NAD+, and semax. A physician's review of the evidence and how to build a longevity stack.

About this Auryx page

Auryx is an MD-led peptide therapy clinic that serves eligible patients nationwide via telemedicine. Founded and led by Romy Fontoura, MD, the practice designs physician-supervised protocols and fulfills approved compounds through regulated United States compounding pharmacies. Public pages are research and education. They do not replace personalized advice from a licensed clinician and they do not give dosing instructions.

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