Your blood vessels age faster than you think. By the time most people reach their 40s, the inner lining of their arteries has already begun losing its ability to relax, repair, and regulate blood flow, setting the stage for everything from high blood pressure to cognitive decline.

Vesugen is a bioregulator peptide developed specifically to target this vascular aging process. Unlike medications that treat symptoms, this tripeptide works at the genetic level to restore youthful function to the cells lining your blood vessels.

This guide covers everything known about Vesugen: its mechanisms, researched benefits, dosing protocols, and how it fits into cardiovascular and anti-aging strategies.

What is Vesugen?

Vesugen is a synthetic tripeptide consisting of three amino acids: lysine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid (abbreviated as Lys-Glu-Asp or KED). It was developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson at the Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology in Russia as part of decades of research into peptide bioregulators.

Key characteristics:

What makes Vesugen different from other peptides?

Most therapeutic peptides work by binding to receptors on cell surfaces. Vesugen operates differently—it penetrates into the cell nucleus and interacts directly with DNA to regulate gene expression.

This epigenetic mechanism allows Vesugen to:

• Upregulate genes that decline with age

• Normalize protein synthesis in vascular tissues

• Restore cellular functions that have deteriorated over time

Think of it as a "reset signal" for aging blood vessel cells rather than a drug that forces a specific response.

For background on peptide bioregulator research, see our getting started with peptides guide.

How Vesugen works

Vesugen's mechanisms center on the vascular endothelium, the single layer of cells lining the inside of every blood vessel in your body.

These endothelial cells control blood flow, regulate blood pressure, prevent clotting, and repair vessel damage.

Endothelial cell regulation

As we age, endothelial cells lose their regenerative capacity. Vesugen addresses this through multiple pathways:

1. Ki-67 upregulation

Ki-67 is a protein marker of cell proliferation. Its expression naturally declines with age, reducing the body's ability to replace damaged endothelial cells. Research shows Vesugen interacts with the promoter region of the MKI67 gene, stimulating Ki-67 expression and restoring endothelial cell renewal capacity.

2. SIRT1 activation

SIRT1 (sirtuin 1) is one of the body's most important longevity proteins. It repairs DNA damage, protects against oxidative stress, and supports cardiovascular function. Vesugen has been shown to increase SIRT1 expression, essentially mimicking some effects of calorie restriction—a proven longevity intervention.

3. Nitric oxide production

Nitric oxide (NO) is essential for blood vessel relaxation. Vesugen promotes NO-dependent vasorelaxation and upregulates eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase), the enzyme that produces nitric oxide. This improves blood flow and reduces vascular stiffness.

4. Endothelin-1 normalization

Endothelin-1 is typically elevated in atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. Vesugen helps normalize endothelin-1 levels, potentially reducing the progression of these conditions.

5. Connexin enhancement

Connexin proteins form gap junctions—the "communication channels" between endothelial cells that coordinate blood pressure regulation and vessel repair. Vesugen increases connexin expression, improving cellular communication.

The epigenetic mechanism

Unlike most peptides that work through receptor binding, Vesugen enters the cell nucleus and interacts directly with DNA. Specifically, it binds to the minor grooves of DNA, forming hydrogen bonds with specific base pairs to regulate gene transcription.

This allows Vesugen to influence:

• Which genes are activated or silenced

• How much of specific proteins are produced

• The overall functional state of vascular tissue

For comparison with other vascular-supporting compounds, see our best peptides for anti-aging guide.

Researched benefits of Vesugen

Most Vesugen research comes from Russian clinical and experimental studies. While this limits Western validation, the body of evidence is substantial.

Vascular health and circulation

Improved blood flow

The most consistently reported benefit across multiple studies is improved circulation. In clinical research involving 41 elderly patients with lower limb arterial insufficiency, Vesugen treatment resulted in:

• 53-61% improvement in blood flow velocity

• Significant improvements in both clinical outcomes and ultrasonic blood flow parameters

• Sustained benefits at 4-month follow-up

Endothelial function restoration

In aged rat models, Vesugen treatment demonstrated:

• Improved endothelial cell morphology

• Increased nitric oxide production

• Enhanced vasodilation capacity

• Better microcirculation

Atherosclerosis support

Research suggests Vesugen may help protect against atherosclerosis through:

• Normalized endothelin-1 expression

• Enhanced cellular communication via connexins

• Reduced oxidative stress in vascular tissues

Cardiovascular protection

When combined with standard therapy in patients with cardiovascular disorders, Vesugen has been associated with:

• Decreased angina frequency

• Reduced cardiac arrhythmias

• Normalized sleep patterns

• Longer remission periods between hypertensive crises

Important note: Vesugen is studied as a complement to conventional treatment, not a replacement.

Anti-aging effects

Vesugen's influence on longevity-related pathways makes it of significant interest in anti-aging research:

Biological age markers

Studies suggest Vesugen may slow biological aging as measured by various biomarkers. This is attributed to:

• SIRT1 activation (mimicking calorie restriction effects)

• Enhanced DNA repair mechanisms

• Improved cellular regeneration capacity

Tissue repair

The peptide supports the production of collagen and elastin—the proteins that maintain vessel strength and flexibility. This helps maintain structural integrity as tissues age.

For more on anti-aging peptides, see our Epithalon guide.

Neuroprotection and cognitive function

Vesugen's vascular benefits extend to the brain, where healthy blood flow is essential for cognitive function:

Alzheimer's disease research

In a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, Vesugen treatment:

• Prevented loss of dendritic spines (the connection points between neurons)

• Increased mushroom spine density by 20-27%

• Supported neuroplasticity in hippocampal regions

Cognitive improvements

Human studies report improved cognitive functions in elderly individuals with central nervous system disorders following Vesugen treatment.

Ischemic protection

In ischemia models, Vesugen-treated animals showed:

• Reduced infarct (damaged tissue) size

• Improved survival rates

• Enhanced neurovascular protection

Sexual function

Vesugen has been studied for vasculogenic erectile dysfunction, ED caused by impaired blood flow:

In a study of 41 patients with ED related to atherosclerosis:

• Significant improvements in penile arterial blood flow

• Increased sexual function scores by 7 points

• Improved quality of sleep and mental health

These benefits are consistent with Vesugen's overall mechanism of improving microcirculation throughout the body.

For other peptides supporting similar functions, see our PT-141 guide.

Metabolic support

Through SIRT1 activation, Vesugen may also influence metabolic health:

• SIRT1 is associated with improved insulin sensitivity

• May help mitigate insulin resistance

• Potential protective effects against metabolic syndrome

Research in murine models suggests these effects parallel those seen with resveratrol, another SIRT1 activator.

Vesugen dosage protocols

Vesugen follows the short-course therapy model typical of Russian bioregulator peptides, used in cycles rather than continuously.

Oral dosing (capsules)

The most common form of Vesugen is oral capsules containing 10mg of peptide each.

Standard protocol:

• 1-2 capsules, 1-2 times daily

• Taken with meals

• Course duration: 1 month

• Repeat every 4-6 months

Sublingual protocol:

• 5-6 drops (0.25-0.35 mL) under the tongue

• Hold for 10-15 minutes before eating

• 3-4 times daily

• Course duration: 1 month

• Repeat in 3-6 months

Injectable dosing

For those using reconstituted Vesugen powder:

Reconstitution:

• Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to 20mg vial

• Concentration: 10 mg/mL

• Store refrigerated after reconstitution

• Use within 14 days

Injection protocol:

• 0.5-1 mg daily (0.05-0.1 mL)

• Subcutaneous injection

• Course duration: 10-30 days

• Repeat 2-3 times per year

Age-based frequency

The Saint Petersburg Institute recommends increasing course frequency with age:

For general peptide reconstitution guidance, see our how to reconstitute peptides guide.

Stacking Vesugen

Vesugen is often combined with other bioregulator peptides for synergistic effects:

Cardiovascular stack

Vesugen + Cardiogen

• Vesugen targets blood vessels

• Cardiogen targets heart muscle tissue

• Together: comprehensive cardiovascular support

Longevity stack

Vesugen + Epithalon

• Vesugen: vascular protection and SIRT1 activation

• Epithalon: telomerase activation and circadian rhythm support

• Together: multi-pathway anti-aging approach

Immune and vascular stack

Vesugen + Crystagen (Vilon)

• Vesugen: vascular regeneration

• Vilon: immune balance and thymus support

• Together: tissue health and recovery support

Neuroprotective stack

Vesugen + Pinealon

• Vesugen: cerebral blood flow and vascular protection

• Pinealon: direct brain tissue support

• Together: cognitive preservation and neuroprotection

Stacking principles:

• Start with 1-2 peptides and assess tolerance

• Combine peptides targeting different systems (vascular + immune + metabolic)

• Avoid redundant peptides targeting the same tissue simultaneously

• Track improvements in relevant biomarkers

For complementary healing peptides, see our BPC-157 guide and TB-500 guide.

Side effects and safety

Vesugen has an excellent safety profile based on available research. As a tripeptide composed of natural amino acids, it's easily metabolized and doesn't accumulate in tissues.

Reported side effects

Common (mild, uncommon):

• Minor digestive upset

• Mild stomach discomfort

Rare:

• Injection site reactions (with injectable form)

• Minor skin irritation or itching at injection site

• Allergic reactions (rare)

Safety considerations

Favorable characteristics:

• Well-tolerated in short treatment courses (10-30 days)

• Low toxicity (breaks down into natural amino acids)

• No sedative or stimulant effects

• No reported drug dependency

Theoretical concerns:

• Over-angiogenesis: Since Vesugen promotes new capillary growth, there's a theoretical concern about abnormal blood vessel growth in certain conditions

• Limited long-term human data from Western studies

Contraindications

Avoid Vesugen if you:

• Are allergic to any of its amino acid components

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding (no safety data)

• Have active cancer or history of cancer (theoretical angiogenesis concern)

• Have uncontrolled medical conditions

Use with caution:

• In moderate-to-severe kidney or liver disease

• If taking blood thinners or cardiovascular medications

• In combination with other bioregulators (start slowly)

For comprehensive peptide safety information, see our peptide safety and risks guide.

Limitations and considerations

While Vesugen shows promising research, several important limitations exist:

Research limitations

Limited Western validation: Most clinical data comes from Russian studies. Large-scale, peer-reviewed Western trials are lacking, making it difficult to independently verify findings.

Small sample sizes: Human studies typically involved 40-60 participants, enough to suggest trends but not enough for definitive conclusions.

Short-term focus: Long-term effects beyond 6-12 months are not well-documented.

Practical considerations

Regulatory status:

• Not FDA-approved in the United States

• Sold as a research peptide or dietary supplement

• Quality control varies between sources

Availability:

• Available from research peptide suppliers

• Also sold as bioregulator capsule supplements

• Verify source quality and purity testing

Setting expectations

Vesugen is not a:

• Replacement for cardiovascular medications

• Cure for heart disease or atherosclerosis

• Substitute for healthy lifestyle factors

It may be useful as:

• A complementary approach to vascular health

• Part of a comprehensive anti-aging protocol

• Support for age-related circulation decline

Vesugen vs. other vascular support options

Vesugen vs. traditional supplements

Vesugen vs. BPC-157

Vesugen vs. SS-31

For mitochondrial support comparison, see our SS-31 peptide benefits guide.

Practical considerations

Quality and sourcing

When selecting Vesugen:

Look for:

• Third-party testing with Certificate of Analysis (COA)

• Purity ≥98% (preferably ≥99%)

• Proper lyophilization for injectable forms

• Cold-chain shipping for temperature sensitivity

• Reputable supplier with track record

Avoid:

• Suppliers without testing documentation

• Unusually low prices

• Products without proper storage instructions

Monitoring response

Track these markers to assess Vesugen's effects:

Subjective:

• Energy levels and mental clarity

• Exercise tolerance and recovery

• Cold hands/feet improvement

• Overall sense of wellbeing

Objective (with healthcare provider):

• Blood pressure measurements

• Lipid panel

• Markers of inflammation (CRP, etc.)

• Vascular function tests if available

Integration with lifestyle

Vesugen works best when combined with vascular-supportive lifestyle factors:

• Regular cardiovascular exercise

• Heart-healthy diet (Mediterranean-style)

• Stress management

• Adequate sleep

• Smoking cessation

• Moderate alcohol consumption

• Healthy weight maintenance

Frequently asked

What is Vesugen peptide used for?

Vesugen is primarily used to support vascular health and blood vessel function. It's researched for improving circulation, protecting endothelial cells, and addressing age-related vascular decline. Secondary applications include cardiovascular support, cognitive function through improved cerebral blood flow, and anti-aging protocols.

How long does it take for Vesugen to work?

Most users notice improvements in vascular circulation and reduced vascular discomfort within a few weeks. More comprehensive benefits, like improved blood flow measurements, typically appear with longer-term use over the full 1-month course and may continue improving for several months after.

Is Vesugen safe?

Based on available research, Vesugen has an excellent safety profile. As a tripeptide made from natural amino acids, it's easily metabolized and doesn't accumulate in tissues. Side effects are rare and typically mild. However, long-term safety data from Western studies is limited.

Can I take Vesugen with blood pressure medication?

Vesugen is generally considered compatible with conventional medications. However, because it affects vascular function, you should consult with your healthcare provider before combining it with blood pressure medications or blood thinners. Monitoring may be advisable.

How often should I take Vesugen courses?

Standard recommendations suggest 1-month courses repeated every 4-6 months for preventive use. For those over 50 or with vascular concerns, 3 courses per year may be beneficial. The pattern is short-term use with breaks rather than continuous administration.

Does Vesugen require injection?

No, Vesugen is available in oral capsule form as well as injectable. The capsules are convenient and show effectiveness in clinical studies. Injectable forms may offer higher bioavailability but aren't strictly necessary for benefits.

What's the difference between Vesugen and other bioregulator peptides?

Each Khavinson bioregulator peptide targets specific tissues. Vesugen specifically targets vascular endothelium (blood vessels), while Cardiogen targets heart muscle, Pinealon targets brain tissue, and Epithalon targets the pineal gland. They can be combined for comprehensive support.

Is Vesugen FDA-approved?

No, Vesugen is not FDA-approved in the United States. It's available as a research peptide or dietary supplement. Most clinical evidence comes from Russian research programs. This doesn't mean it's unsafe, but it does mean less regulatory oversight in Western markets.

The bottom line on Vesugen

Vesugen represents a unique approach to vascular health—working at the genetic level to restore youthful function to aging blood vessels rather than simply treating symptoms.

Key takeaways:

• Tripeptide (Lys-Glu-Asp) targeting vascular endothelium

• Works through epigenetic mechanisms, not receptor binding

• Upregulates Ki-67, SIRT1, and nitric oxide production

• Clinical studies show 53-61% improvement in blood flow

• Used in short courses (1 month) repeated several times yearly

• Excellent safety profile with minimal side effects

• Limited Western validation—most research is Russian

Best suited for:

• Adults over 40 concerned about vascular aging

• Those with circulation concerns

• People seeking natural cardiovascular support

• Anti-aging protocol enhancement

• Complement to conventional cardiovascular care

Limitations:

• Lack of large-scale Western clinical trials

• Not a replacement for medical treatment

• Quality varies between sources

As with any peptide, work with a knowledgeable healthcare provider and source from reputable suppliers with third-party testing.

Related guides

• Best peptides for anti-aging – Comprehensive longevity options

• Epithalon peptide – Telomerase and circadian support

• SS-31 peptide benefits – Mitochondrial support

• BPC-157 guide – Tissue healing peptide

• TB-500 guide – Recovery and repair

• PT-141 guide – Sexual function support

• Peptide safety and risks – Understanding safety profiles

• How to reconstitute peptides – Preparation guide

• Getting started with peptides – Beginner's introduction

• Peptide storage guide – Keeping peptides stable

Take care of yourself. <3