Peptide Bioregulators in the Rehabilitation of Cosmonauts
Khavinson V.H., Trofimov S.V.
St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology
Abstract
Spaceflight imposes extreme physiological stress characterized by radiation exposure, microgravity, circadian disruption, and immune dysregulation. This 15-year longitudinal study examined the efficacy of peptide bioregulators (Epithalamin and Thymalin) in the post-flight rehabilitation of Russian cosmonauts. Participants received intramuscular courses of Epithalamin (pineal gland peptide complex) and Thymalin (thymus peptide complex) within 72 hours of return to Earth. Results demonstrated rapid restoration of T-cell immunity to baseline levels within 14 days, compared to several months in historical controls. Chromosomal aberration frequency in lymphocytes was significantly reduced, suggesting radioprotective effects. Circadian rhythms, as measured by melatonin secretion profiles, normalized within 10 days. The combined peptide protocol proved highly effective for mitigating accelerated aging effects and immune suppression associated with spaceflight.
Study Population
Russian cosmonauts (age 35-52 years) with cumulative spaceflight exposure of 90-450 days
Background
Spaceflight imposes extreme stress on the human body, characterized by radiation exposure, microgravity, and psychological strain. These factors lead to "spaceflight osteopenia," immune dysregulation, and circadian disruption.
Methodology
The study followed cosmonauts over a 15-year period. Participants received courses of Epithalamin (pineal gland peptide) and Thymalin (thymus peptide) post-flight.
Results
Immune System
T-cell counts, which typically plummet after spaceflight, returned to baseline levels within 14 days in the treated group, compared to months in the control group.
Chromosomal Stability
The frequency of chromosomal aberrations in lymphocytes was significantly lower in the peptide-treated group, suggesting a radioprotective effect.
Circadian Rhythms
Epithalamin restored normal melatonin secretion profiles, improving sleep quality and adaptation to Earth's day-night cycle.
Conclusion
The combined use of Epithalamin and Thymalin is a highly effective protocol for rapid rehabilitation of cosmonauts, mitigating the accelerated aging effects of space travel.
Statistical Results
T-cell counts (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+) returned to pre-flight baseline within 14 ± 3 days in the treated group vs. 89 ± 21 days in historical controls (p < 0.001). Chromosomal aberrations per 100 metaphases: treated group 2.3 ± 0.8, controls 8.7 ± 2.1 (p < 0.001). Melatonin peak secretion time normalized to 02:00-04:00 within 10 days (vs. 45+ days in controls).
Study Limitations
- •No randomized control group (historical controls used)
- •Small sample size limits statistical power
- •Confounding factors (individual radiation exposure, mission duration) not fully controlled
- •Russian-language publication with limited international peer review
Key Findings
- ✓Restoration of T-cell immunity to baseline levels within 14 days
- ✓Normalization of melatonin secretion profiles
- ✓Significant reduction in chromosomal aberrations
- ✓Improved adaptation to Earth gravity
Mechanism of Action
Epithalamin induces telomerase activity and chromatin condensation, protecting DNA. Thymalin restores thymic function via zinc-dependent gene activation.