Colostrinin
Cognitive & MoodAlso known as: PRP, Proline-Rich Polypeptides, Colostrinin-CLN, ReGen, CLN
Mechanism
Colostrinin is a mixture of proline-rich polypeptides naturally found in colostrum (the first milk produced after birth). It has been studied extensively for Alzheimer's disease, where clinical trials showed it could stabilize or improve cognitive function in patients with mild-to-moderate AD. It works as a powerful immune modulator — it can boost a weak immune system or calm an overactive one — and also has direct neuroprotective effects. It is available as an oral supplement (the peptides survive digestion) under brand names like ReGen.
Technical detail
Colostrinin (CLN) is a complex of proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs, MW 500-3000 Da) isolated from ovine colostrum by Janusz et al. (1974). Contains at least 32 distinct peptide components, with the nonapeptide Trp-Gln-Pro-Pro-Arg-Ala-Arg-Ile identified as an active fragment. Mechanisms: (1) Immunomodulatory — bidirectional: upregulates Th1 cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-2) when immune function is suppressed, downregulates Th2 responses in hyperactive states; inhibits excessive ROS production by activated macrophages and neutrophils; (2) Neuroprotective — inhibits amyloid-beta aggregation and fibril formation in vitro; reduces beta-secretase activity; attenuates 4-HNE (lipid peroxidation marker) in neuronal cultures; (3) Anti-apoptotic — inhibits cytochrome c release and caspase activation in oxidatively stressed neurons; (4) Gene regulation — modulates expression of genes involved in oxidative stress response (Nrf2 pathway). Double-blind RCTs in mild-to-moderate AD: stabilized MMSE scores over 15 months vs. decline in placebo; ~40% of patients showed improvement or stabilization (Leszek et al., 1999, 2002).