immunology & Biochemistry
Jasmin Kharazmi-Khorassani; Ahmad Asoodeh
Volume 28, Issue 1 , January and February 2021, , Pages 69-81
Abstract
Introduction: Thymosin alpha-1 (zadaxin) a 28-amino acid peptide, which was first identified in the calf thymus. This peptide is a biological modifier which leads to activation of various cells of the immune system. In the recent years, thymosin alpha-1 has been studied in in vitro and in vitro studies ...
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Introduction: Thymosin alpha-1 (zadaxin) a 28-amino acid peptide, which was first identified in the calf thymus. This peptide is a biological modifier which leads to activation of various cells of the immune system. In the recent years, thymosin alpha-1 has been studied in in vitro and in vitro studies to evaluate its biological activities and therapeutic applications. Materials and Methods: This study was done to summarize findings from the biological and clinical applications of thymosin alpha-1 peptide. We searched at the sites of Google, Google Scholar and PubMed over 1966-2019 using Thymosin alpha-1, Immunomodulatory, Cancer, Hepatitis and AIDS as keywords. Results: The results showed that thymosin alpha-1 interacts with Tolllike receptors (TLR) and brings about to activation of some intracellular pathways that ultimately stimulate the immune system by modulating cytokine production, enhancing T-cell and dendritic cells. The peptide also shows antitumor activity and a protective role against oxidative damage by increasing the level of antioxidant enzymes. Clinical studies with thymosin alpha-1 have been shown a broad effective application against many infectious diseases, including hepatitis B and C and AIDS. In addition, thymosin alpha-1 is considered as a promising and adjunctive approach for subjects suffering from some cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma and melanoma. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate the multiple biological properties of thymosin alpha-1. However, further studies are needed to understand the mechanism of action of thymosin alpha-1.