What is DSIP? How does it work?

What is DSIP? How does it work?

Delta-sleep-inducing peptide (DSIP) was first isolated from rabbits by Monnier and associates in 1964. It is an endogenous neuropeptide that has been shown to induce natural delta EEG sleep. It has a wide range of modulatory effects in the central nervous system and its mechanism of action has not been fully determined. Aside from its sleep inducing effects, it acts on circadian rhythms by interacting with serotonin and melatonin. It has also been shown to have a regulatory effect on the endocrine system by interacting with temperature regulation and having a direct or indirect effect on alleviating hypothermia. Further studies have shown that it has significant effects on the protection against oxidative damage.

DSIP has the ability to enhance the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation and contributes to pronounced stress protective and antioxidant action. DSIP also has been shown to reduce the body’s natural response to acute stress. Laboratory studies suggest marked changes in substance P, beta-endorphin, and cortisol levels in hypothalamus and blood plasma. This suggests that the acute and long-term stress-coping effect of DSIP depends on considerable changes in the level of other oligopeptides and hormones induced by DSIP. It seems DSIP triggers a cascade of complex interrelated molecular reactions in response to emotional stress.