ACT-1 Peptide (DB18201): A Comprehensive Report on a Modulator of Cellular Communication for Tissue Repair and Regeneration

1. Introduction

ACT-1 peptide (DrugBank ID: DB18201) is an investigational biotech therapeutic agent designed to modulate cellular communication and promote tissue repair. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of ACT-1 peptide, encompassing its identity, originator and developer information, detailed mechanism of action, pharmacological properties, non-clinical development, extensive clinical trial program, current therapeutic indications, pipeline status, and regulatory and intellectual property landscape. The focus is on its development for various dermatological and ophthalmological conditions, leveraging its unique interactions with key junctional proteins.

2. Drug Identity and Basic Information

ACT-1 peptide, also known by synonyms such as α-Connexin carboxyl-Terminal 1 peptide, Granexin, Granexin Peptide, iNexin, Zifogaptide, and PEPTIDE 328967, is classified as a biotech drug, specifically a peptide-based therapeutic.[1] It is a synthetic 25-amino acid peptide.[4] Its chemical formula and average protein weight are not definitively available in all databases, characteristic of complex biologic entities.[1] The peptide's design incorporates a cell internalization sequence linked to a domain mimicking the C-terminus of Connexin43 (Cx43).[4] Pharmacologically, it functions as a modulator of gap junction and tight junction proteins, primarily targeting Connexin 43 and Zonula Occludens Protein 1 (ZO-1).[2] Its therapeutic class includes skin disorder therapies, eye disorder therapies, and potentially antineoplastics based on early research.[2]

3. Originator and Developer Information