FOXO4-DRI
FOXO4-D-Retro-Inverso Peptide
Senolytic peptide that targets zombie cells
FOXO4-DRI is a modified peptide that selectively induces apoptosis in senescent cells by disrupting the FOXO4-p53 interaction that keeps these cells alive.
Admin routes
Subcutaneous, Intravenous
Popularity
Medium
Side effects
Monitor closely
AU vendors
0 rated
✓Key benefits
📈What to expect
Possible fatigue and reduced appetite as senescent cells are cleared
Anecdotal reports of improved energy and skin quality
Benefits may persist for months as senescent cell burden remains reduced
Based on community reports and published research. Individual results vary significantly.
💊Dosing protocols
Anti-aging (community-derived, not clinically validated)
5-10 mg/kg
Every other day for 3 weeks
3-week cycles with extended breaks
Dosing information is sourced from published research and community protocols. This is not a recommendation. Consult a healthcare professional.
Research status|Preclinical - published mouse aging study, no human trials
Overview
As we age, senescent cells (sometimes called 'zombie cells') accumulate in tissues. These cells have stopped dividing but refuse to die, secreting inflammatory molecules (the SASP) that damage surrounding tissue. FOXO4-DRI was designed by Peter de Keizer at Erasmus University Medical Center to specifically target these cells. It works by disrupting the interaction between FOXO4 and p53 that normally prevents senescent cells from undergoing apoptosis. In aged mice, FOXO4-DRI improved fur density, kidney function, and physical fitness. The peptide uses D-amino acids in a retro-inverso configuration for protease resistance.
⚙️How it works
In senescent cells, FOXO4 binds to p53 and sequesters it in the nucleus, preventing p53 from triggering apoptosis. This FOXO4-p53 interaction keeps senescent cells alive despite their damaged state. FOXO4-DRI is a modified peptide that competes with endogenous FOXO4 for p53 binding but cannot maintain the survival signal. This releases p53 to activate the apoptotic cascade, selectively killing senescent cells while sparing healthy cells where FOXO4-p53 interaction is not critical for survival.
⚡Side effects
📅Research history
De Keizer publishes senescent cell clearance study in Cell
The de Keizer mouse study
In 2017, de Keizer published results in Cell showing that FOXO4-DRI treatment in naturally aged mice (24 months old, equivalent to ~70 human years) produced striking improvements. Treated mice showed restored fur density, improved renal function (reduced plasma creatinine), and increased willingness to explore and exercise. Fast-aged mice (XpdTTD/TTD model) treated with FOXO4-DRI showed restored liver and kidney function. The peptide selectively killed senescent cells without apparent toxicity to healthy cells, confirmed by the absence of widespread apoptosis markers.
References
- [1]Baar MP, et al. 'Targeted apoptosis of senescent cells restores tissue homeostasis in response to chemotoxicity and aging.' Cell, 2017.
Frequently asked questions
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Disclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The dosing protocols listed are sourced from published research and community reports and do not constitute a recommendation. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Australian regulations classify many peptides as Schedule 4 (prescription-only) substances. Check current TGA guidelines before purchasing.