Summary
Vilon is a 2-residue peptide from the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, described by its developers as a bioregulator of the immune system and thymus. Vilon (Lys-Glu) is one of the shortest peptides in the series. The group reports it stimulates thymocyte proliferation and influences chromatin structure in lymphocytes.
Structure
- K1
- E2
HydrophobicGly / ProPolarBasic (+)Acidic (−)
Sequence as published by the developing group (K-E).
How it works
The developers propose that ultrashort peptides enter the cell nucleus, bind specific DNA sequences or histone proteins, and switch tissue-specific genes on or off. That model has support from the group’s own cell, docking and animal studies, but it has not been widely tested by independent laboratories.
Research use cases
Areas where Vilon has been studied. Inclusion here does not mean it works for that purpose.
- Gene expression in immune system and thymus cell models
- Ageing research
What the research found
Developer research
Vilon (Lys-Glu) is one of the shortest peptides in the series. The group reports it stimulates thymocyte proliferation and influences chromatin structure in lymphocytes.1
Systematic review by the developers
A 2021 review from the same group summarizes cell, molecular-docking and animal studies of more than a dozen short peptides and their proposed gene-regulating effects.1
Safety and open questions
Very short peptides of natural amino acids are generally considered low in toxicity, and Russian reports describe few side effects. There are no large, independent, controlled human trials.
Regulatory status
Not approved in the US or EU. Some related products are sold in Russia as dietary supplements or registered medicines.
Status was accurate when this page was last reviewed on October 26, 2026. Regulations change; check with the relevant authority before relying on it.
Vilon: common questions
Has Vilon been independently studied?
Very little. Nearly all published work comes from the developing institute and its collaborators, often in Russian-language journals. Treat tissue-specific claims as unconfirmed.
Is Vilon approved for human use?
Not approved in the US or EU. Some related products are sold in Russia as dietary supplements or registered medicines.
References
- Khavinson VK, Popovich IG, Linkova NS, Mironova ES, Ilina AR. (2021). Peptide Regulation of Gene Expression: A Systematic Review. Molecules.
Links open a PubMed search for the exact title, or the original source where one is given.