What the research shows

Analysts separated the components of a TB-500 preparation and used high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify the acetylated fragment corresponding to positions 17–23 of human thymosin beta-4. They also synthesized a reference fragment. Identification of the TB-500 fragment.

Another team used chromatography and mass spectrometry to detect the parent fragment and breakdown products in plasma and urine from horses. The study validated detection following exposure, without measuring injury recovery. Equine detection study.

Documented formats

The analytical papers describe a veterinary preparation, a synthesized reference peptide and biological samples used for detection.

Testing and purity

A useful report distinguishes Ac-LKKTETQ from unmodified LKKTETQ and from the 43-residue parent. Look for fragment-ion data and comparison with a characterized reference.

How to read a batch report

Questions about TB-500

What does ‘Ac’ mean in the sequence?

It denotes an acetyl group at the start of the peptide chain. That change affects the mass an analyst expects to find.

Would a study of full-length thymosin beta-4 establish efficacy of TB-500?

Each molecule requires direct evidence. They differ in length, structure and the material actually tested.