Coluracetam (MKC-231) | CAS 135463-81-9 | Choline Uptake Enhancer (Research Use Only) | Knowlux

Product Description

Coluracetam, CAS 135463-81-9, is a synthetic racetam-family compound supplied by Knowlux for laboratory research use. It is also known by the development codes MKC-231 and BCI-540. The molecular formula is C19H23N3O3 and the molecular weight is 341.4 g/mol. Each lot is released with a lot-specific COA, MSDS and full analytical traceability.

Regulatory and development status clarification: Coluracetam is not approved by the FDA for any indication. It was initially developed by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma for Alzheimer's disease, but failed to meet clinical endpoints. It was later licensed to BrainCells Inc for investigation in major depressive disorder (MDD) and reached Phase 2 clinical trials, but development is reported as terminated or discontinued. The US DEA NFLIS database lists coluracetam under the New Drug category (added December 2023), and PubChem classifies it within the Synthetic Cannabinoids or Psychoactive Compounds chemical class. Commercial listings frequently describe coluracetam as a nootropic or cognitive enhancer; those designations attach to unregulated supplement markets and do not apply to, and are not represented by, this research-grade lot.

Product Parameters

Product Details

1. Overview

Coluracetam is a member of the racetam family, structurally distinct from piracetam and aniracetam in its primary pharmacological target. It contains a tetrahydrofuroquinoline group that is a bioisostere of the 9-amino-tetrahydroacridine family. Unlike classic racetams that primarily modulate AMPA receptors, coluracetam has been characterised as a high-affinity choline uptake (HACU) enhancer, and this mechanism distinguishes it within the racetam class. Knowlux supplies coluracetam as a research-grade material for laboratory and analytical use; this supply is not intended for human administration and does not constitute a finished drug or supplement product.

2. Mechanism of Action (Research Context)

Published research describes coluracetam as a compound that enhances high-affinity choline uptake in the brain. By increasing the transport of choline into neurons, it is reported to support and elevate the synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter central to learning, memory and cognitive processes. Preclinical studies in AF64A-treated rodents indicated that MKC-231 significantly increased high-affinity choline uptake and acetylcholine production in vivo and in vitro, and reversed loss of choline acetyltransferase production in the medial septal nucleus of rats exposed to phencyclidine. It has also been suggested to modulate AMPA receptors and exhibit neuroprotective properties in preclinical models. These descriptions are derived from published research and are provided for scientific reference only. Knowlux makes no claims regarding the efficacy, safety, or suitability of this product for any human application. Promotion of coluracetam for memory enhancement, Alzheimer's treatment, depression treatment, or any health benefit is not supported by Knowlux and is inconsistent with research-use-only supply.

3. Quality Control

4. Applications

• Reference standard for coluracetam analytical method development

• In vitro high-affinity choline uptake and acetylcholine synthesis research models

• Cholinergic neurotransmission and neuroprotection research

• Comparative studies of racetam-family compounds with distinct mechanisms

• LC-MS and biochemical assay calibrators

5. Packaging, Storage & Shipping

Powder: amber glass vial or high-barrier foil bag under nitrogen headspace, sealed with tamper-evident closure. Secondary packing: light-protected carton with desiccant. Ambient or cold-chain shipping with temperature logger where required. COA, MSDS, packing list and certificate of origin issued with each shipment.

6. Documentation Support

Per lot: COA, MSDS, certificate of origin, residual solvent statement, heavy metal statement. Specification summaries and audit support available on a project basis.

About Knowlux

Knowlux Biotechnology is a GMP-oriented manufacturer and supplier of peptides, APIs and fine-chemical research compounds, operating from Hubei, China. We serve research groups, CDMOs and distributors in more than 40 countries, and support contract synthesis, custom packaging and technical documentation requests.

Compliance Statement

This product is supplied for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or animal administration, not for diagnostic or therapeutic use, not for retail sale, and not for personal use. Coluracetam is not FDA-approved for any indication, and clinical development for Alzheimer's disease and major depressive disorder is reported as discontinued. Coluracetam carries a GHS classification of H411 (toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects); appropriate disposal precautions should be observed. Research context statements are for scientific reference only and do not constitute medical advice, promotional claims, or dosing guidance.