Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline) is a peptide chain of amino acids with the following sequence: Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2. It is a fragment of the SNAP-25 (synaptosome-associated protein 25 kDa).^[1] SNAP-25 is a key component of the SNARE (Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor Attachment protein Receptor)-Synaptotagmin-1 complex. This is a protein assembly that facilitates the release of neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, into the synaptic cleft between nerve cells and muscle cells. SNAP-25 is considered to be critical in this process because it appears to be in the assembly of the SNARE complex. This may also lead to the release of acetylcholine, thus triggering muscle contraction. Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 resembles the SNAP-25 protein, particularly the portion that is believed essential for SNARE complex formation.

By inhibiting its formation, the peptide may also prevent neurotransmitter release and muscle contraction. Researchers have investigated Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline) for its potential to support skin cell structure and reduce wrinkling along the stratum corneum. Continuous muscle movements result in wrinkling, and the devitalization of muscle contractions may possibly inhibit the development of new lines and decrease the depth of existing skin tissue creases and wrinkles. Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline) may prevent muscles from moving or contracting. Researchers also posit that the peptide may support endogenous collagen production to preserve the skin’s extracellular matrix.

Specifications

Other Known Titles: Adipotide

Molecular Formula: C₁₅₂H₂₅₂N₄₄O₄₂

Molecular Weight: 2611.41 g/mol

Sequence: Cys-Lys-Gly-Gly-Arg-Ala-Lys-Asp-Cys—Gly-Gly–(Lys-Leu-Ala-Lys-Leu-Ala-Lys)2

AHK-Cu is a tripeptide containing a copper atom. It is a short peptide in which the copper atom is attached between the histidine and alanine residues of the alanine-histidine-lysine tripeptide. The copper atom is linked to three nitrogen atoms in this molecule. It is a naturally occurring compound that has been suggested to add support in cell growth and regulation, and cell death, particularly in the case of vascular endothelial cells (the innermost layer of blood vessels). AHK-Cu has also been studied extensively in animal models under laboratory conditions for its suggested impact on collagen synthesis. Researchers posit that the peptide appears to regulate various cellular processes primarily by controlling the production of two compounds: Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-B).^[1] According to the researchers “TGF-beta1 induction of angiogenesis requires a rapid and transient apoptotic effect mediated by VEGF/VEGFR2.” AHK-Cu, by enhancing levels of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, may possibly activate fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Fibroblasts are considered to lead to the production of two complex compounds; elastin and collagen. Endothelial cells are considered responsible for the growth and function of blood vessels that supply nutrition to hair follicles and skin cells. The activation of endothelial cells in association with the fibroblasts may lead to a strengthened skin barrier and increased skin elasticity, as well as potential acceleration in tissue repair. Some laboratory studies done on dermal cells indicate an increase in collagen type 1 production to the extent of as much as 300%.

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a kidney-derived glycoprotein made of 11 amino acids that has been studied for its potential to promote blood vessel growth and repair, and possible neuroprotection in the case of diabetic neuropathy. ARA-290 is a peptide derived from the beta-helix domain of EPO.^[1] ARA-290 was developed with the intention of stimulating pain-mitigating and neuroprotective activity of EPO, though without promoting blood cell formation. ARA-290 has been proposed by researchers to exhibit anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-permeability characteristics, akin to the endogenous glycoprotein, EPO. The peptide is being evaluated for its potential in neuropathic wound healing, immunomodulation, and within the context of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) research.

B7-33 is a soluble synthetic single-chain peptide obtained from the larger, naturally occurring protein H2-relaxin (Relaxin), which is considered to induce pleiotropic actions impacting the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular system, and reproduction.^[1] B7-33 appears to retain the anti-fibrotic properties of Relaxin without enhancing cAMP production, it may also stimulate ERK1/2 phosphorylation and promote matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) expression and the degradation of extracellular collagen. The Relaxin family of peptides has four endogenous receptors divided into two pairs (RXFP1/2 and RXFP3/4).^[2] The Relaxin receptors appear to be stimulated by cAMP, orexin, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), several insulin-like peptides, and GLP-1. The agonists have been observed to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and tissue-repairing characteristics.

Chonluten is also known as Tripeptide T-34 or EDG, due to its sequence (Glu-Asp-Gly). It is a cytogenetic complex consisting of short peptides that are suggested to normalize the mucous membrane cells of the lungs and the bronchial tube. It is a gene regulator associated with inflammation and antioxidant activity, and is considered to be involved in proliferation responses.^[1] It appears to function in animal test models as an anti-inflammatory in the lungs, normalizing the mucosal functions of the lungs in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).