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Research Only Longevity & Mitochondrial

Klotho Peptide

also known as: KL-VS, Soluble Klotho, α-Klotho

The 'longevity protein' — a soluble Klotho fragment that extends lifespan in mice, enhances cognition across species, and declines with aging, making it a leading target for anti-aging therapeutics.

The shed ectodomain of α-Klotho, a type I transmembrane protein predominantly expressed in kidney and brain, which circulates as a soluble hormone-like factor that enhances cognition, suppresses aging-related signaling (Wnt, insulin/IGF-1), and promotes synaptic plasticity via GluN2B/NMDA receptor enrichment.

Mechanism of action

Multiple mechanisms: (1) Inhibits insulin/IGF-1 signaling, activating FOXO transcription factors and promoting stress resistance; (2) Suppresses Wnt signaling, reducing cellular senescence and fibrosis; (3) Enhances synaptic plasticity by increasing GluN2B-containing NMDA receptor trafficking to the synapse; (4) Regulates FGF23-mediated phosphate metabolism in kidney; (5) Reduces oxidative stress via Nrf2 activation.

Primary uses

  • Longevity and aging research
  • Cognitive enhancement studies
  • Kidney disease biomarker
  • Anti-aging therapeutic development

Typical dosing

Not established

Research compound. No human therapeutic dosing established. Mouse studies: 10 mcg/kg IP injection.

Regulatory status

Not approved. Active preclinical research at UCSF (Bhatt lab), Stanford, and others. Recombinant Klotho injection improves cognition in aged mice and nonhuman primates (Nature 2023).

References

  1. [pubmed] Kurosu H, et al. "Suppression of aging in mice by the hormone Klotho." Science, 2005;309:1829-1833.
  2. [pubmed] Castner SA, et al. "Longevity factor klotho enhances cognition in aged nonhuman primates." Nat Aging, 2023;3:931-937.

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Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.