Description
9-Me-BC (9-methyl-β-carboline) is a small-molecule alkaloid derivative of the β-carboline scaffold, studied for its unique combination of neurogenic, dopaminergic, and anti-inflammatory effects in central nervous system research models. Originally characterized by the Polanski group at Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 9-Me-BC has been investigated in cell-culture and rodent models for promoting dopamine neuron differentiation, upregulating BDNF and GDNF expression, increasing dendritic spine density, and protecting against neuroinflammation in MPTP and LPS-induced models of Parkinson’s-like neurodegeneration. The compound is small (~182 Da), lipophilic, and crosses the blood-brain barrier readily after oral administration, placing it among the most pharmacologically accessible neurogenic compounds in current research catalogs.
Benefits (Research Focus)
• Studied for dopaminergic neuron differentiation and neurogenesis in midbrain models
• Investigated for BDNF and GDNF upregulation in cortical and hippocampal cultures
• Explored for dendritic spine density and synaptic complexity enhancement
• Examined for anti-inflammatory effects in microglial activation models
• Researched for neuroprotection in MPTP and LPS-induced Parkinson’s-like models
What Researchers Look At
• Tyrosine hydroxylase expression and dopaminergic neuron survival
• BDNF, GDNF, and CREB pathway transcriptional response
• Dendritic spine density, synaptic protein expression, and LTP endpoints
• Microglial activation markers (Iba1, TNF-α, IL-6) and neuroinflammation profiles
• Cognitive performance and locomotor activity in aged and neurodegeneration models
Quick Specs
• Form: Gelatin capsule
• Strength: 20 mg/capsule
• Quantity: 30 capsules per bottle
• Excipient: Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) — pharmaceutical-grade filler
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry, dark place
Identity Basics
• Compound: 9-Me-BC (9-Methyl-β-carboline)
• Synonyms: 9-Methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole; 9-MBC
• Class: β-carboline alkaloid derivative; neurogenic small molecule
• Chemical Formula: C₁₂H₁₀N₂
• Molecular Weight: 182.23 g/mol
• CAS: 2521-07-5
⚠️ Disclaimer
- This product is intended for laboratory research use only.
- Not for human or veterinary use.
- Not approved for diagnostic, therapeutic, or medical applications.
- Handle using appropriate laboratory safety procedures and personal protective equipment.


