FOXO4-DRI
A designed peptide studied for its ability to selectively induce apoptosis in senescent (“zombie”) cells.
Overview
FOXO4-DRI is a designed peptide developed by researchers studying cellular senescence — the state in which cells stop dividing but resist normal cell death, accumulating with age and contributing to tissue dysfunction. It’s built as a “D-retro-inverso” peptide, a specific engineering technique that reverses the peptide backbone to resist enzymatic degradation while preserving its binding activity.
Mechanism of Action
FOXO4-DRI is designed to disrupt the interaction between FOXO4 and p53, two proteins that, when bound together in senescent cells, block p53 from triggering apoptosis (programmed cell death). By interrupting this interaction specifically in senescent cells, research has shown FOXO4-DRI can selectively trigger apoptosis in “zombie” cells while sparing healthy ones — the basis of the “senolytic” research classification.
Cited Research
FOXO4/p53 interaction disruption
Foundational research (de Keizer lab) demonstrating selective apoptosis induction in senescent cells.
Senolytic research
Part of a broader research field studying compounds that selectively clear senescent cells to address age-related tissue dysfunction.
Animal-model healthspan studies
Studied in aged and chemotherapy-treated mouse models for effects on physical function and organ health markers.
This is a summary, not an exhaustive review. Search the primary literature yourself: FOXO4-DRI on PubMed →
Safety & Handling
FOXO4-DRI should be handled only by qualified personnel in a laboratory setting, stored and reconstituted per its Certificate of Analysis, and kept refrigerated once reconstituted. It is not evaluated or approved by the FDA for any human or veterinary use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “senolytic”?
It’s a research category of compounds studied for their ability to selectively clear senescent (“zombie”) cells that have stopped dividing but resist normal cell death, without harming healthy cells.
Is FOXO4-DRI legal to purchase?
It’s legal to sell and purchase as a research chemical for laboratory use in the U.S. It is not approved by the FDA as a drug or supplement for human consumption.
How should it be stored?
Keep the lyophilized powder refrigerated or frozen prior to reconstitution. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated and use within the timeframe on its Certificate of Analysis.
Is this page medical advice?
No. This page summarizes published literature for research and educational context only. It does not recommend a dose, protocol, or use in humans or animals outside a laboratory setting.
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