Thymalin Restores Immune Function in Aging and Stress
Khavinson V.K., Kuznik B.I., Ryzhak G.A.
St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology
Immunology and Immunopharmacology 15(2): 158-167
Abstract
Age-related immunosenescence is characterized by thymic involution and progressive T-cell dysfunction, leading to increased susceptibility to infections and cancer. This multi-center study evaluated Thymalin (thymus peptide extract) in 214 elderly subjects (age 62-87 years) with documented immune deficiency. Participants received Thymalin (10mg IM daily for 10 days) with 6-month follow-up. Post-treatment analysis revealed significant normalization of CD4+ T-cell counts (from 387±52 to 821±94 cells/μL, p<0.0001), restoration of CD4/CD8 ratio (from 0.9±0.2 to 1.6±0.3, p<0.001), and enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity (+73%, p<0.001). Functional assays demonstrated restored lymphocyte proliferative response to mitogens (PHA stimulation index increased 2.8-fold). Clinically, incidence of acute respiratory infections decreased by 68% over the following year. Thymalin also accelerated immune recovery in post-surgical patients and cancer patients after chemotherapy.
Study Population
Elderly patients (age 62-87) with age-related immune deficiency, documented low T-cell counts, no active malignancy
Background
The thymus gland atrophies with age, leading to progressive immune dysfunction. Thymalin is a peptide extract from calf thymus designed to rejuvenate immune function.
Study Design
Over 200 elderly patients with measurable immune deficiency received Thymalin treatment and were monitored for immune markers and clinical outcomes.
Key Findings
T-Cell Restoration
CD4+ T-helper cells, which decline dramatically with age, were restored to youthful levels within weeks of Thymalin treatment.
Functional Immunity
Not just cell counts, but actual immune function improved:
- NK cells killed cancer cells more effectively
- T-cells responded better to immune challenges
- Overall resistance to infections increased
Clinical Benefits
Patients experienced 68% fewer respiratory infections in the year following treatment, demonstrating real-world health benefits.
Conclusion
Thymalin effectively reverses immunosenescence, making it a valuable therapeutic for elderly populations and immunocompromised patients.
Statistical Results
CD4+ count: baseline 387±52 cells/μL vs. post-treatment 821±94 (p<0.0001). CD4/CD8 ratio: 0.9±0.2 to 1.6±0.3 (p<0.001). NK cytotoxicity: +73% increase (p<0.001). PHA proliferation index: 2.8-fold increase (p<0.0001). Respiratory infection incidence: 68% reduction over 12 months (p<0.001).
Study Limitations
- •No placebo control group
- •Open-label design
- •Heterogeneous patient population
- •Limited mechanistic investigation at molecular level
- •Short follow-up period (6 months)
Key Findings
- ✓Restoration of T-cell counts to normal levels
- ✓Enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity
- ✓Improved lymphocyte proliferation
- ✓Dramatic reduction in infection rates
Mechanism of Action
Direct stimulation of thymic epithelial cells, promoting T-cell maturation and differentiation via thymic hormones.