Catestatin
Also known as: Chromogranin A Fragment, CgA352-372, Human Catestatin
Catestatin is a 21-amino acid peptide fragment derived from chromogranin A that acts as a natural antihypertensive agent by inhibiting catecholamine release and promoting vasodilation.
Catestatin is a 2.4 kDa research peptide. Catestatin is a 21-amino acid peptide fragment derived from chromogranin A that acts as a natural antihypertensive agent by inhibiting catecholamine release and promoting vasodilation.
Also called: Chromogranin A Fragment, CgA352-372, Human Catestatin
2.4 kDa
Molecular Weight
Daltons
2
Strong Evidence
benefits
4
Studies Cited
peer-reviewed
1-5
Typical Dose
nmol/kg
Overview
Catestatin represents a fascinating endogenous peptide that functions as a powerful regulator of cardiovascular homeostasis. This bioactive fragment originates from the larger chromogranin A protein and demonstrates remarkable ability to counteract excessive sympathetic nervous system activity. The peptide works through multiple pathways including direct inhibition of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, modulation of calcium channels, and enhancement of nitric oxide production. Research shows catestatin levels often decrease in hypertensive patients, suggesting its therapeutic potential for blood pressure management. The peptide also exhibits protective effects against cardiac stress and may play roles in metabolic regulation. Its unique dual action of reducing catecholamine release while promoting vasodilation makes it an attractive target for cardiovascular research applications.
Key Takeaways: Catestatin
- Strongest evidence supports Catestatin for blood pressure reduction and sympathetic nervous system modulation
- Research doses typically range from 1 to 5 nmol/kg via intravenous
- 2 benefits with strong evidence, 3 moderate, 2 preliminary
- Half-life: 15-30 minutes
- 4 cited research studies in this guide
Mechanism of Action
Catestatin inhibits catecholamine release by blocking nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on chromaffin cells and sympathetic nerve terminals. It also activates endothelial nitric oxide synthase, promoting NO-mediated vasodilation, while modulating L-type calcium channels to reduce vascular smooth muscle contraction. The peptide demonstrates additional cardioprotective effects through inhibition of cardiomyocyte apoptosis and reduction of oxidative stress markers.
Research Benefits
Catestatin at a Glance
Catestatin inhibits catecholamine release by blocking nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on chromaffin cells and sympathetic nerve terminals.
Blood Pressure Reduction
Strong EvidenceCatestatin significantly lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure through dual mechanisms of reduced catecholamine release and enhanced vasodilation. Studies show 15-25 mmHg reductions in hypertensive animal models.
Sympathetic Nervous System Modulation
Strong EvidenceCatestatin acts as a natural brake on excessive sympathetic activity by inhibiting norepinephrine and epinephrine release from adrenal chromaffin cells and sympathetic nerve terminals.
Cardioprotective Effects
Moderate EvidenceThe peptide protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by reducing infarct size and preserving cardiac function. It inhibits cardiomyocyte apoptosis and reduces inflammatory markers in cardiac tissue.
Endothelial Function Improvement
Moderate EvidenceThe peptide enhances endothelium-dependent vasodilation by increasing nitric oxide bioavailability and improving endothelial cell function, contributing to better vascular health.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Moderate EvidenceThe peptide demonstrates ability to reduce inflammatory cytokine production and oxidative stress markers, particularly in cardiovascular tissues.
Metabolic Regulation
PreliminaryResearch indicates catestatin may influence glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, with potential benefits for metabolic syndrome and diabetes management.
Arrhythmia Protection
PreliminaryCatestatin shows potential for reducing cardiac arrhythmias by stabilizing calcium handling in cardiomyocytes and modulating autonomic nervous system balance.
Research Dosing Protocols
Research Purposes Only: All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
| Research Protocol | Dose Range | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular research | 1–5 nmol/kg | intravenous |
| Hypertension studies | 0.5–2 nmol/kg | subcutaneous |
| Acute cardioprotection | 2–10 nmol/kg | intravenous |
Frequency
Single dose or twice daily for multi-day protocols
Timing
30 minutes before cardiovascular stress tests or as continuous infusion
Cycle Length
1-14 days depending on research protocol
Research Notes
- 1Higher doses may be required for subcutaneous administration due to lower bioavailability
- 2Continuous infusion protocols show better sustained effects than bolus dosing
- 3Dose adjustment may be needed based on baseline blood pressure
- 4Research purposes only - not approved for human therapeutic use
Reconstitution Guide
Standard Reconstitution
Vial Size
1 mg
Bacteriostatic Water
1 mL
Concentration
10 mcg
per 0.1 mL (10 units)
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Materials
Catestatin vial, bacteriostatic water, alcohol swabs, insulin syringes.
Equilibrate Temperature
Remove the vial from storage and allow it to reach room temperature (5-10 minutes).
Sanitize
Swab the rubber stopper of both the peptide vial and bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol.
Draw Water
Draw 1 mL of bacteriostatic water into a syringe.
Add Water to Vial
Insert the needle into the peptide vial and direct the water stream against the glass wall — not directly onto the powder.
Mix Gently
Swirl the vial gently until the powder is fully dissolved. Never shake. The solution should be clear and colorless.
Store Properly
Refrigerate at 2-8°C. 30 days refrigerated after reconstitution.
Storage Temperature
2-8°C
Shelf Life
30 days refrigerated after reconstitution
Important Notes
- •Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose vials
- •Allow to reach room temperature before injection
- •Avoid vigorous shaking - gentle swirling preferred
- •Store lyophilized powder at -20°C for maximum stability
Catestatin Dosing Calculator
Calculate daily intake, cycle totals, and vials needed with pre-filled protocols →
Catestatin Reconstitution Calculator
Calculate concentration, syringe units, and doses per vial with auto-filled values →
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- !Hypotension (excessive blood pressure reduction)
- !Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- !Injection site reactions
- !Dizziness or lightheadedness
- !Fatigue or weakness
- !Nausea
- !Flushing
- !Potential allergic reactions
- !Transient changes in heart rhythm
Potential Interactions
- ⚡May enhance effects of antihypertensive medications, requiring dose adjustment
- ⚡Potential interactions with beta-blockers due to overlapping cardiovascular effects
- ⚡May interfere with catecholamine-based medications or supplements
- ⚡Calcium channel blockers may have additive hypotensive effects
- ⚡Nitrates and vasodilators could cause excessive blood pressure reduction
Important: Side effects and interactions listed here are compiled from published research and community reports. This is not a complete list. No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted for most research peptides. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Research Studies
The following studies are referenced in this profile. PubMed IDs are provided where available for independent verification.
Catestatin: A Novel Endogenous Peptide with Antihypertensive Activity
Foundational study demonstrating catestatin's role as an endogenous antihypertensive peptide, showing reduced plasma levels in hypertensive patients and blood pressure lowering effects in animal models.
Cardioprotective Effects of Catestatin in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Research demonstrating catestatin's ability to reduce myocardial infarct size and preserve cardiac function through anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Role of Catestatin in Cardiovascular Function and Disease
Comprehensive review of catestatin's cardiovascular effects, including its mechanisms of action in blood pressure regulation and cardiac protection.
Catestatin Regulates Vesicular Quantal Size and Affects Catecholamine Release
Mechanistic study showing how catestatin inhibits catecholamine secretion through modulation of nicotinic receptors and calcium channels in chromaffin cells.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all published research. Studies are selected for relevance and quality. Click PubMed IDs to verify sources independently. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of the peptide for any clinical use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Catestatin is primarily researched for its cardiovascular effects, particularly blood pressure reduction, cardioprotection during ischemia, and modulation of sympathetic nervous system activity. It's also studied for metabolic and anti-inflammatory applications.
Catestatin reduces blood pressure through two main mechanisms: inhibiting the release of catecholamines (norepinephrine and epinephrine) from sympathetic nerves and promoting vasodilation by enhancing nitric oxide production in blood vessels.
Research doses typically range from 0.5-10 nmol/kg depending on the study protocol and administration route. Intravenous doses are generally lower (1-5 nmol/kg) while subcutaneous doses may be higher due to reduced bioavailability.
Catestatin has a relatively short half-life of 15-30 minutes, with cardiovascular effects typically lasting 1-4 hours after a single dose. Continuous infusion or repeated dosing may be needed for sustained effects.
Yes, catestatin can cause excessive blood pressure reduction, especially in individuals already taking antihypertensive medications or those with low baseline blood pressure. Careful monitoring is essential during research protocols.
Yes, catestatin is an endogenous peptide derived from chromogranin A. It's naturally produced and released by various tissues including the adrenal glands, heart, and blood vessels as part of normal cardiovascular regulation.
Reconstituted catestatin should be stored at 2-8°C and used within 30 days. The lyophilized powder should be stored at -20°C for maximum stability before reconstitution.
The most common side effects are related to its blood pressure-lowering effects: hypotension, dizziness, fatigue, and potential bradycardia. Injection site reactions and nausea may also occur.
Research & Educational Use Only
All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
The information presented here is compiled from published research studies and is intended for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.