7,8‑DHF
Natural flavone and putative small-molecule BDNF mimetic (TrkB agonist), preclinical data only.
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Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS 7,8-DHF?
Detailed overview
7,8-DHF (7,8-dihydroxyflavone, tropoflavin) is a naturally occurring flavone described as a small-molecule BDNF mimetic: it is proposed to bind the TrkB receptor, trigger its dimerization and autophosphorylation, and engage the downstream PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK neurotrophic pathways, while also acting as an independent antioxidant. It has been studied extensively in rodent models of depression, fear extinction (PTSD), Alzheimer's disease and neuroprotection, often with favorable results. Importantly, several independent laboratories could not reproduce the claim of direct TrkB activation, so the exact mechanism is disputed. There are no human clinical trials, oral bioavailability is low and clearance is rapid, so efficacy and safety in humans are essentially unstudied; it is currently available only as research-grade or supplement-grade material.
Mechanism
Putative TrkB agonist (BDNF mimetic)
Evidence
Preclinical only (no human data)
Legal status
Research-grade / supplement-grade powder
Receptor profile
- TrkB receptor (BDNF receptor)Strong
- PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signaling (downstream)Moderate
- Antioxidant / oxidative stress reductionWeak
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 6
- No formal human safety or toxicology data: the evidence comes almost entirely from rodent studies
- Low oral bioavailability and rapid clearance in rodents, so human exposure is uncertain
- Whether it truly activates TrkB directly in humans is scientifically disputed (several independent groups could not reproduce it)
- Purity of research-grade or supplement-grade powder can be variable
- Theoretical pro-oxidant/quinone effect at very high concentrations (catechol structure)
- Use in pregnancy and drug interactions are unstudied
Contraindications · 4
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: safety not established, avoid
- Not an approved medicine; exists only as research-grade or supplement-grade material, not recommended without clinical supervision
- Unknown interaction profile: caution with other neuroactive agents and antidepressants
- Uncertain sourcing and purity risk due to unregulated supply
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
A selective TrkB agonist with potent neurotrophic activities by 7,8-dihydroxyflavone
Jang SW, Liu X, Yepes M, Shepherd KR, Miller GW, Liu Y, Wilson WD, Xiao G, Blanchi B, Sun YE, Ye K
Effect of 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, a small-molecule TrkB agonist, on emotional learning
Andero R, Heldt SA, Ye K, Liu X, Armario A, Ressler KJ
Fear extinction and BDNF: translating animal models of PTSD to the clinic
Andero R, Ressler KJ
The prodrug of 7,8-dihydroxyflavone development and therapeutic efficacy for treating Alzheimer's disease
Chen C, Wang Z, Zhang Z, Liu X, Kang SS, Zhang Y, Ye K
Optimized TrkB Agonist Ameliorates Alzheimer's Disease Pathologies and Improves Cognitive Functions via Inhibiting Delta-Secretase
Chen C, Ahn EH, Liu X, Wang ZH, Luo S, Liao J, Ye K
FAQ
FAQ
Natural flavone and putative small-molecule BDNF mimetic (TrkB agonist), preclinical data only.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.