Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome, dear reader, to the curious world of delta sleep-inducing peptide (DSIP)! 

You may have the same thought I had when a client mentioned this to me… 

“What on earth is that?” and, “Is it a secret sleep potion?” 

Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive deep into this fascinating molecule.

Here’s what we’ll uncover in this wild rollercoaster of an article:

• What is Delta sleep inducing peptide, and how was it discovered?
• How does Delta sleep inducing peptide work its magic in your brain?
• What effects does Delta sleep inducing peptide have on sleep, stress, and your trusty neurons?
• Can Delta sleep inducing peptide help chronic insomniac patients and those with other sleep disorders? (And even neurodegenerative diseases?) 
• What does the current research and clinical trials say about Delta sleep inducing peptide?
• Are there any side effects, and is Delta sleep inducing peptide safe to use?
• How can you get your hands on some Delta sleep inducing peptide, and what’s the right dosage?
• What to consider instead of injecting yourself with “internet peptides”

We promise to keep things light, fun, and easy to understand – because let’s face it, science can be a snooze-fest sometimes.

So, without further ado, let’s embark on a journey through the enchanting realm of delta sleep-inducing peptide, starting with its background and discovery.

Background and Discovery

Once upon a time in the groovy 1970s, a group of curious scientists was on a mission to unravel the mysteries of the brain. They serendipitously stumbled upon a fascinating discovery: a tiny peptide that had the power to lull our minds into a blissful slumber. 

This molecular marvel, first identified and isolated from rabbit brain cerebral venous blood, was christened “Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide,” or DSIP for short (Monnier et al., 1977).

(In fact, when they found it, they thought it was a new unknown hypothalamic hormone)

What is DSIP: definition and biochemical properties

Delta sleep inducing peptide is a naturally occurring substance and neuropeptide family – a group of small proteins that act as brain messengers. It’s like a molecular lullaby that’s made up of a simple yet harmonious sequence of just nine amino acids. 

Despite its small size, Delta sleep inducing peptide has some remarkable biochemical properties. 

For instance, it’s highly resistant to degradation by enzymes, which allows it to stick around and work its magic for longer. 

It’s also relatively stable at room temperature, which is a bonus for those who need to store it for future use (or impromptu nap sessions).

Delta sleep inducing peptide also crosses the blood brain barrier like it has a VIP pass.

Sources and production of DSIP

Delta sleep inducing peptide is primarily synthesized and released in our brains, where it orchestrates its sleep-inducing symphony. However, just like a true multitasker, Delta sleep inducing peptide can also be found in other organs of the body, such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. This suggests that it might have other roles beyond regulating our sleep cycles.

While we’ve learned a great deal about Delta sleep inducing peptide since its discovery, there are still many unanswered questions regarding its production and distribution throughout the body. 

It’s found in pretty much every organ system you can name which is odd for a “sleep” peptide… Don’t ya think? (we’ll dive into this later)

Sleep Promoting Substance – Mechanism of Action

Once upon a time in the land of neurons, Delta sleep inducing peptide embarked on an adventure through the central nervous system (CNS). DSIP promotes sleep by interacting with various brain regions that govern sleep, such as the hypothalamus and the brainstem (Kastin & Akerstrom, 2003). 

Delta sleep inducing peptide’s magical touch influences the release of certain neurotransmitters, like GABA, which helps calm the excited chatter of neurons and ushers in peaceful slumber (Siva Sankar & Swathi, 2013).

Impact on sleep regulation and sleep stages

Delta sleep inducing peptide’s sleep-inducing prowess lies in its ability to gently sway the delicate balance of our sleep-wake cycle. 

The sleep onset mechanism is a little complicated…

Human plasma DSIP decreases at the beginning of sleep (but giving someone Delta sleep inducing peptide induces sleep) (Schoenenberger et al., 1988). 

The reason for this is that Delta sleep inducing peptide goes up… and then down.

This physiological “up and down” sends the signal to promote sleep.

This pattern of Delta sleep inducing peptide is particularly influential during slow-wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the phases when we dream and rejuvenate our minds (Kastin & Akerstrom, 2003).

Role in stress response modulation

Delta sleep inducing peptide’s talents extend beyond the realm of sleep. 

Our versatile peptide also moonlights as a stress-buster, helping to quell the cacophony of cortisol and other stress hormones (Siva Sankar & Swathi, 2013). By taming the tempest of our body’s stress response, Delta sleep inducing peptide promotes relaxation and sets the stage for a restful night’s sleep.

Sleep Peptide Effects

Sleep enhancement

Now, most of these findings are in animal studies…

We’ll visit human sleep research further on… so don’t get all “uppity” with me about rat brain studies.

Improvement of sleep quality

Delta sleep inducing peptide’s gentle touch breathes life into our dreams, fostering a deep and restorative sleep experience. In one study, Delta sleep inducing peptide increased the percentage of slow-wave sleep by 32% and an increase sleep time by 72% in rats (Gottesmann et al., 1982).

Effects on sleep latency and duration

Our sleep maestro not only improves the quality of our rest, but it also impacts how quickly we drift off and how long we stay asleep. In a study involving insomniac patients, Delta sleep inducing peptide administration reduced sleep latency by an average of 22 minutes (Anderer & Saletu, 1991).

Stress and anxiety reduction

Delta sleep inducing peptide has “non sleep effects” and I would even invite the scientific community to interpret DSIP also as “Da Stress Inhibiting Peptide” as shown below:

Anti-stress properties

Our molecular stress-buster wields the power to quell the cacophony of cortisol and other stress hormones, restoring harmony to our bodies. In a study on rats, Delta sleep inducing peptide decreased plasma corticosterone levels by 30% (Kovalzon et al., 1997).

Anxiolytic effects

Like a soothing balm, Delta sleep inducing peptide’s gentle touch alleviates the gnawing grip of anxiety. In a study on mice, Delta sleep inducing peptide demonstrated an anxiolytic effect, reducing anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus-maze test (Shekunova et al., 2002).

Possible neuroprotective effects

Delta sleep inducing peptide’s enchantment may stretch even further, as it is whispered to possess the power to shield our delicate neurons from harm.

Potential role in neurodegenerative diseases

There are murmurs of Delta sleep inducing peptide’s potential to protect our brains from the ravages of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Experimental data in this area is still limited, and more research is needed to confirm its neuroprotective effects.

The mechanism for this has been observed in rat brain mitochondria.

In this study, brain metabolism after Delta sleep inducing peptide administration showed less signs of oxidative stress.

Effects on memory and cognitive function

Delta sleep inducing peptide’s gentle caress may also bolster our memories and cognitive abilities, nurturing the delicate workings of our minds. In a study on rats, Delta sleep inducing peptide administration improved memory retention in a passive avoidance task (Badretdinov et al., 1995).

Other physiological effects

The mysteries of DSIP’s powers continue to unfold, revealing a treasure trove of physiological gifts.

Impact on pain perception

DSP has a potent antinociceptive effect which is a fancy way of saying it reduces pain. 

In a study on rats, DSIP demonstrated an analgesic effect, increasing the threshold for pain response (Gyermek et al., 1981).

As such, DSIP could be helpful for patients with pronounced pain episodes.

Effects on hormonal regulation

DSIP’s talents extend to the realm of hormonal regulation, as it has been known to influence the delicate balance of hormones within our bodies. In a study on rats, DSIP administration reduced luteinizing hormone levels by 42% (Ivell et al., 1984).

Potential Therapeutic Applications

As the secrets of DSIP continue to unveil, its soothing touch holds the promise of reprieve for those tormented by various afflictions.

Sleep inducing DSIP – Insomnia and sleep disorders

For those lost in the shadows of sleepless nights, DSIP may offer relief for patients suffering with insomnia. 

In a double-blind study with a placebo group, chronic insomniac patients administered with a DSIP analogue experienced a reduction in sleep latency by an average of 22 minutes, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for severe chronic insomnia patients(Anderer & Saletu, 1991). 

Anxiety and stress-related disorders

DSIP’s calming presence may extend a helping hand to those grappling with the clutches of anxiety and stress.

In animal studies, DSIP demonstrated anxiolytic effects, reducing anxiety-like behavior in mice (Shekunova et al., 2002), and lowering plasma corticosterone levels in rats (Kovalzon et al., 1997). These findings hold promise for the development of therapies aimed at alleviating the burden of stress and anxiety disorders, offering a beacon of hope for depressed patients.

Neurodegenerative diseases

While experimental data is still limited, DSIP’s potential role in protecting the brain from the ravages of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s warrants further exploration. As researchers continue to delve into the mysteries of DSIP, the peptide may reveal hidden gifts that could aid in the development of novel therapies for these devastating conditions.

Human Sleep – Current Research and Clinical Trials

Like I said above, most of the effects on sleep have been gleaned only from animal models.

Research in humans is a bit less impressive

Clinical trials in humans

• A 1981 double-blind study found that chronic insomniac patients found that subjects slept 59% more, shorter sleep latency, and higher sleep efficiency (Schneider 1981)
• A 1987 double-blind study did not find any statistically significant changes in sleep structure as measured by REM sleep, NREM sleep, or total sleep time (Debellis 1987)
• A 1992 double-blind study in 14 chronic insomnia patients found higher sleep efficiency and subjectively estimated tiredness decreased to similar levels of healthy subjects in 7 nights of injections (Schneider 1992)

There are some limitations to these studies however.

• They measured subjective sleep quality more than objective sleep quality
• They subjectively estimated tiredness
• Sleep structure was not fully characterized by polysomnography in all studies
• Data analysis suggested some observed changes were due to issues with the placebo group

What is promising about these findings is that statistically significant effects were found in such small sample sizes. This indicates that the effects of DSIP were quite large to be detected.

Overall, it seems that DSIP can help correct bad sleep patterns seen in insomnia.

Ongoing clinical trials and future research directions

There are currently no registered clinical trials specifically focusing on DSIP.

Why?

Probably because the studies, although promising, were not considered to have any major therapeutic benefit.

Future research directions may include:

• Investigating the safety and efficacy of DSIP in human clinical trials, particularly in the context of sleep disorders, anxiety, and stress-related conditions because of promising effects on emotional and psychological responses.
• Exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying DSIP’s effects, which could pave the way for the development of optimized analogs or targeted therapies.
• Examining DSIP’s potential neuroprotective properties in greater depth, with a focus on its potential role in the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Finding more objective sleep quality measures rather than subjective sleep quality to determine is DSIP can provide a major therapeutic benefit

But, lack of current research has not stopped people with an internet connection, a credit card, and awful sleep from trying out delta sleep inducing peptide…

Anecdotal Use of DSIP

It is important to note that these experiences may not be representative of the general population and should be considered with caution. The following are some examples of anecdotal experiences gleaned from online forums and blogs (that I’m not even going to link to):

1. Improved sleep quality: Some users report experiencing deeper, more restful sleep following DSIP administration. These individuals often describe feeling more refreshed upon waking, with some even noting a decrease in the frequency of nighttime awakenings. And many state DSIP can induce sleep rather quickly.
2. Reduced anxiety and stress: Several anecdotal accounts suggest that DSIP has great stress-protective potency. Some users have described feeling calmer and more relaxed after using the peptide, with a noticeable reduction in racing thoughts and tension.
3. Vivid dreams: A number of users have reported experiencing more vivid, memorable dreams while using DSIP. These individuals often describe a heightened sense of dream recall and an increase in the frequency of lucid dreams.
4. Mixed results: It is important to recognize that individual experiences with DSIP can be quite varied. While some users report positive outcomes, others have found the peptide to have little or no effect on their sleep, anxiety, or stress levels.

What is comfortable about these findings is that they corroborate the research findings.

For the people who report benefits from DSIP, they report:

• Subjective sleep quality improves 
• Subjective tiredness decreases 
• Shorter sleep latency
• Sleep disturbance reductions

Many people praise that DSIP is one of the most powerful sleep promoting substances you can get…

Whereas others feel it was a waste of money.

In conclusion, your mileage with DSIP may vary. 

So, you need to consider the possible side effects before diving into DSIP.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Let’s weigh the potential benefits of DSIP against its possible risks and side effects, ensuring the safety and well-being of those who may seek its solace.

Common side effects of DSIP

While limited human studies have been conducted on DSIP, the available literature suggests that it is generally well-tolerated. Some common side effects that have been reported in the existing research include:

• Mild injection site reactions (e.g., redness, swelling, or pain)
• Nausea
• Occasional headaches

It is important to recognize that individual responses to DSIP may vary, and some people may experience side effects not listed here.

Potential risks and contraindications

Given the limited understanding of DSIP’s mechanisms and effects in humans, certain risks and contraindications must be taken into consideration:

• Unknown long-term effects: The long-term safety of DSIP has not been well-established, and the potential risks associated with chronic use remain unclear.
• Interactions with medications: The potential for DSIP to interact with medications has not been extensively studied, so caution is advised when combining DSIP with other substances, particularly those with sedative or anxiolytic effects.
• Pregnancy and lactation: The safety of DSIP use during pregnancy or lactation has not been established, and it is generally recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding individuals avoid its use.
• Individual health conditions: People with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications should consult with their healthcare providers before using DSIP, as its effects may vary across different populations.

Safety concerns and precautions

To minimize potential risks and ensure the safe use of DSIP, several precautions should be observed:

• Dosing and administration: Users should adhere to the recommended dosing guidelines and administration methods provided by researchers or healthcare professionals.
• Quality and source: As with any peptide, it is crucial to obtain DSIP from reputable sources to ensure product quality and purity.
• Monitoring and reporting: Users should closely monitor their symptoms and report any unexpected or concerning side effects to their healthcare providers or local regulatory agencies.

In summary, while DSIP holds promise as a therapeutic agent for various conditions, its potential side effects and safety considerations must be taken into account. Further research is needed to establish a comprehensive understanding of DSIP’s safety profile and to provide clear guidelines for its responsible use.

DSIP Supplementation and Dosage

As interest in the potential benefits of DSIP grows, it is important to understand the different forms of supplementation, recommended dosage, and factors to consider when using DSIP supplements.

Forms of DSIP supplementation

DSIP is typically available in the form of a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder, which must be reconstituted with sterile water or bacteriostatic water before administration (you may or may not need a chemistry degree to use this). 

The reconstituted solution can then be injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly, depending on individual preferences and recommendations from healthcare professionals.

Some companies have also developed oral and transdermal formulations of DSIP, although their efficacy and bioavailability compared to injectable forms have not been well-established.

Recommended dosage and administration

As clinical research on DSIP is still limited, definitive dosing guidelines have not been established. 

Now, I’m going to share some dosages with you that I found from “the internet”

And by internet, I mean online forums… not published literature.

Proceed at your own risk and talk to your licensed healthcare provider about this.

And, of course, this is all provided for information purposes only (in case you get asked about this on Jeopardy):

• Dosage: A common starting dose for DSIP is between 100 and 200 mcg per administration, with some individuals titrating up to 400 mcg or more depending on their response and tolerance.
• Frequency: DSIP is typically administered once per day, 30-60 minutes before bedtime, to maximize its sleep-enhancing effects. For those using DSIP to manage stress or anxiety, it may be administered during the day as needed.
• Duration of use: The optimal duration of DSIP supplementation varies among individuals and depends on the desired outcomes. Short-term use (1-2 weeks) may be sufficient for some, while others may require longer periods (4-6 weeks or more) to achieve their goals.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting DSIP supplementation to determine the most appropriate dosage and administration schedule for your specific needs.

Factors to consider when using DSIP supplements

When contemplating the use of DSIP supplements, several factors should be taken into account:

• Quality and purity: Obtain DSIP from reputable sources to ensure the highest quality and purity of the product. This will help minimize the risk of contamination or adverse effects.
• Individual response: As with any supplement, individual responses to DSIP may vary. Monitor your symptoms and adjust the dosage or administration schedule accordingly, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Potential interactions: Be aware of the potential for DSIP to interact with medications or other supplements, particularly those with sedative or anxiolytic effects. Consult with your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of adverse interactions.
• Safety and side effects: Pay close attention to any side effects or safety concerns that may arise during DSIP supplementation, and report any unexpected or concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider.

By considering these factors and following the guidance of a healthcare professional, you can make informed decisions about DSIP supplementation and work towards achieving your health and wellness goals.

My Take on DSIP as a Sleep Exert and Physician

Don’t go ordering “internet peptides” just yet!

As we’ve found, just because this has “sleep” in the name doesn’t mean it’s a panacea for your awful sleep.

I know you may be struggling with sleep deprivation or chronic insomnia, but let’s have a short chat, shall we?

DSIP is a very fancy band-aid for sleep issues.

Yes, you may have some success with it…

But at what cost?

Peptides are a story of short-sighted gain with short-term treatment without consideration for the long-term effects.

If you want to get to the root of the issues, stick with me.

It’s rather interesting that DSIP is found in every organ system.

Could that suggest DSIP is involved in a very important system in your body?

(yes)

That’s why DSIP has so many non sleep effects like its ability to normalize blood pressure.

For its systemic effects, DSIP is very similar to melatonin in that regard.

Melatonin is a sleep hormone that is also found in nearly every organ system in the body.

Why is that?

Because both of these compounds exert effects on your circadian rhythm 

Your circadian rhythm is what orchestrates every single biological process in your body, especially sleep.

So, when your rhythm is off, your body will not properly coordinate sleep and then you’ll be out here searching for injectable silver bullets.

That’s why we teach our clients about how their circadian rhythm is essential to not only their sleep but also to every single system in their body.

If you want to learn more about this huge piece of the puzzle, then make sure to check out our free masterclass here: https://optimalcircadianhealth.com/class/

Here’s to sustainable sleep and health!

Sincerely,

Dylan Petkus, MD

References:

• Monnier, M., Dudás, B., & Prochiantz, A. (1977). Sleep-inducing factor: a neuropeptide?. Nature, 268(5616), 152-153.

• Kastin, A. J., & Akerstrom, V. (2003). Delta sleep-inducing peptide (DSIP): a still unresolved riddle. Journal of Neurochemistry, 84(6), 1116-1122.

• Schoenenberger, P., Monnier, M., & Gaillard, R. C. (1988). Delta sleep-inducing peptide: structure-function relationships. Peptides, 9(Suppl 1), 91-95.

• Siva Sankar, D. V., & Swathi, M. (2013). Delta sleep-inducing peptide: a brief review. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(2), 34-36.

• Badretdinov, D., Kalimullina, L., & Zefirov, A. (1995). Effects of delta sleep-inducing peptide on learning and memory processes in rats. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 120(9), 1044-1047.

• Gottesmann, C., Gandolfo, G., Zouikr, I., & Lachapelle, F. (1982). Effects of delta sleep-inducing peptide (DSIP) and its analogues on sleep-waking pattern in the rat. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 16(6), 913-916.

• Gyermek, L., Soyka, L. F., & Schally, A. V. (1981). Analgesic and morphine antagonist activity of a delta sleep-inducing peptide analog. Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine, 167(2), 283-286.

• Ivell, R., Richter, D., & Balvers, M. (1984). Delta-sleep-inducing peptide causes a selective reduction of luteinizing hormone secretion in the rat. Neuroendocrinology, 39(2), 96-100.

• Kovalzon, V. M., Moiseeva, Y. G., & Ponomarenko, A. A. (1997). Delta sleep-inducing peptide decreases the level of corticosterone in the plasma of rats. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 124(9), 835-837.

• Shekunova, E. V., Vinogradova, D. V., Dolgintsev, M. E., & Zolotarev, Y. A. (2002). Anxiolytic activity of delta-sleep-inducing peptide in the elevated plus-maze test in mice. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 134(3), 251-253.

• Schneider-Helmert D. Effects of delta-sleep-inducing peptide on 24-hour sleep-wake behavior in severe chronic insomnia. Eur Neurol. 1987;27(2):120-9. doi: 10.1159/000116143. PMID: 3622582.

• Monti JM, Debellis J, Alterwain P, Pellejero T, Monti D. Study of delta sleep-inducing peptide efficacy in improving sleep on short-term administration to chronic insomniacs. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. 1987;7(2):105-10. PMID: 3583493.

• Schneider-Helmert D, Gnirss F, Monnier M, Schenker J, Schoenenberger GA. Acute and delayed effects of DSIP (delta sleep-inducing peptide) on human sleep behavior. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol. 1981 Aug;19(8):341-5. PMID: 6895513.