Pyroglutamate
Pyroglutamic Acid (5-Oxoproline)
Overview
Pyroglutamate (pyroglutamic acid) is a cyclic amino acid formed from glutamine or glutamic acid that occurs naturally in many proteins and has cognitive-enhancing properties as a standalone supplement. It is the terminal residue of several neuropeptides including TRH and has been studied for memory enhancement learning and age-related cognitive decline. Pyroglutamate is noteworthy as a naturally occurring nootropic compound with a reasonable safety profile and evidence base supporting its use as a cognitive supplement particularly in aging populations.
Mechanism of Action
Pyroglutamate enhances cholinergic neurotransmission by increasing the density and sensitivity of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the hippocampus and cortex. It also enhances NMDA receptor-mediated glutamatergic neurotransmission involved in long-term potentiation — the synaptic strengthening process underlying memory formation. Pyroglutamate improves cerebral blood flow and energy metabolism in neural tissue and has shown neuroprotective effects against various forms of neurotoxicity. Its cognitive benefits appear strongest in aging populations where cholinergic and glutamatergic systems naturally decline. As a precursor to proline-containing neuropeptides pyroglutamate may also contribute to endogenous peptide synthesis in neural tissue.
Dosage Information
Typical Dose
500-1000 mg daily
Frequency
Once or twice daily
Administration
Oral capsule
Notes
Often sold as the magnesium or potassium salt for improved absorption. Well tolerated with a long history of use as a cognitive supplement in Europe.
Where does Pyroglutamate sit?
See how this peptide compares across all 111 peptides in our database.
Evidence Score
0.63
Compound Data
Molecular Formula
C5H6NO3-
Molecular Weight
128.11 g/mol
IUPAC Name
(2S)-5-oxopyrrolidine-2-carboxylate
PubChem CID
5289118Potential Side Effects
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Quick Facts
- Administration
- Oral capsule
- Typical Dose
- 500-1000 mg daily
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- References
- 0 curated + 44 from PubMed
- Clinical Trials
- 19 registered
- Evidence Score
- 0.6 / 100