Anturein

Anturein is a synthetic peptide originally developed as a potential therapeutic agent for treating inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. It is derived from the sequence of the human protein annexin A1, a protein involved in regulating inflammation and immune responses. The peptide was designed to mimic the anti-inflammatory properties of annexin A1 while avoiding potential side effects associated with full-length protein administration.

Research into anturein has primarily focused on its ability to modulate inflammation through interactions with specific receptors, such as formyl peptide receptors (FPRs). Studies suggest it may reduce excessive immune responses, making it a candidate for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and sepsis. However, clinical development has been limited, and anturein has not yet been approved for medical use.

The compound was first described in scientific literature in the late 1990s, emerging from research on annexin A1’s anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Its structure consists of a short amino acid sequence, which enhances its stability and bioavailability compared to larger proteins. While preclinical and early clinical trials showed promise, further investigation was discontinued due to challenges in advancing it to marketable status.

Anturein remains of academic interest as a model for studying anti-inflammatory pathways. Its research highlights the potential of peptide-based therapies in modulating immune responses, though no ongoing clinical trials or commercial applications are currently documented. The peptide’s mechanism of action continues to be explored in basic science studies.