TA-1

Thymosin alpha-1, first isolated from tissue of the thymus gland, is a potent regulator of immune function. The thymus is responsible for making T-cells and for ensuring that they mature properly. T-cells are some of the most important parts of the adaptive immune system, where they help the immune system remember past infections and improve the function of other immune system cells to boost their ability to fight infection.

Research in mice without thymus glands shows that thymosin alpha-1 alone is enough to restore immune function and prevent widespread infection. The peptide works at the most fundamental levels of the immune system to activate signaling pathways and stimulate the production of cytokines and other molecules that help to coordinate the activities of various cells in the immune system[1]. In other words, thymosin alpha-1 has broad, positive effects on the immune system.

A. 4-week-old mice given thymosin alpha-1 learn how to escape from mazes faster. Source: PubMed

The role of thymosin alpha-1 in regulating dendritic cells cannot be overstated. Dendritic cells are responsible for taking antigens, bits of invading bugs like bacteria and fungi, and presenting them to other immune system cells in a way that makes it easy for those cells to recognize the antigens and respond appropriately. Dendritic cells are found in high numbers in the skin, nose, lungs, and GI system where they act as one of the first responders of the immune system. By regulating dendritic cells, thymosin alpha-1 affects immune system functioning at one of its most fundamental levels[6].

Interestingly, thymosin alpha-1 may also boost the ability of the body to fight HIV infection. It appears that the peptide stimulates CD8 T-cells to release a number of factors that inhibit HIV infection of other immune cells and prevent latent HIV from becoming active[9].

Thymosin alpha-1 has been tested and is undergoing active testing in a number of different cancers. Positive results have been seen in

• breast cancer,
• melanoma,
• liver cancer,
• lung cancer, and
• colon cancer.

Research into the benefits of thymosin alpha-1 in the setting of avulsed (pulled out) and replanted permanent front teeth indicates that the peptide can improve healing of the gums and soft tissue surrounding the injury and promotes survival of the replanted tooth[18]. Though more research is required, the findings indicate that thymosin alpha-1 may be of huge benefit in the setting of traumatic tooth damage, making it easier for dentists to rescue teeth that have been knocked out.