DNSP-11
Aliases: Dopamine Neuron Stimulating Peptide-11
Last verified: 2026-09-24
The short version
DNSP-11 is one of the few peptides from the 'neurotrophic' story that shows something special in animal data — peripheral administration with a central effect. If confirmed, that is a big deal: the whole class of neurotrophic therapies has fallen on the question of bioavailability. But the current level of evidence is 'a few rats from one laboratory', in models of acute toxic damage that are historically poor predictors of human Parkinson's disease. The CDNF family is a legitimate scientific direction; a DNSP-11 vial on the gray market is, at best, premature and at worst — pure speculation on a name.
Identity & type
- Molecular type
- peptide
- Molecular weight
- ~1.4 kDa
- Origin
- A fragment of the natural human CDNF protein; identified by screening sequences for neurotrophic potential.
Mechanism of action
An eleven-amino-acid peptide derived from CDNF (cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor); in Parkinson's disease models it stimulates survival and function of dopaminergic neurons — partly via ERK/AKT pathways; it works even when given peripherally, which sets it apart from most neurotrophic peptides.
not confirmed in humans
Dosing & routes
Official / clinical context
No official context exists.
Regulator-approved labeling and published study designs — never a recommendation.
Community-reported practice
Very rare; occasionally in neuroprotective discussions about Parkinson's, without reported regimens or results.
Unverified self-reports. Not medical advice. Not endorsement.
Protocol — official vs community
Official / label
No approved protocol exists — preclinical agent. DNSP-11 has been given at µg doses SC or intracranially in rat Parkinson's models only.
Duration: —
Its one distinguishing feature — activity after peripheral administration, unusual among neurotrophic peptides — is an animal finding, not a dosing basis.
Community (anecdotal)
Structured protocol data for this entry is coming.
Human evidence
None.
Preclinical evidence
Interesting and mechanistically coherent, but narrow: a few studies from the same laboratory, in two toxic models. Without larger independent replication.
Known risks
- Everything unknown in humanstheoretical
Teal: characterized in clinical/labeling contexts. Amber: theoretical or reported outside controlled settings.
Unknowns & evidence gaps
- Pharmacokinetics, peripheral-to-central transfer and safety in humans
Frequently asked questions
References
- DNSP-11 neuroprotection in 6-OHDA/MPTP models (University of Nebraska program)
- CDNF phase 1 program (parent molecule context)