SNAP-8 — EU research guide.
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-3) is an octapeptide analogue of SNAP-25, a protein involved in neuromuscular junction signalling. It is studied as a topical anti-wrinkle compound that modulates muscle contraction at the dermal level.
What is SNAP-8?
SNAP-8 is an octapeptide that competes with SNAP-25 for binding in the SNARE complex, reducing vesicle docking at neuromuscular junctions. Applied topically, it is proposed to attenuate the repetitive muscle contractions that deepen expression lines. It is a longer-chain analogue of the hexapeptide Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-3) with proposed greater efficacy.
What does the research show?
In vitro studies show SNAP-8 reduces catecholamine release from chromaffin cells, consistent with SNARE complex interference. Small split-face topical studies (n<30) report reduced wrinkle depth at the periorbital region. No large-scale controlled trials. The topical delivery and penetration of peptides through intact skin remains a scientific debate in dermatology research.
EU legal status
SNAP-8 is a registered cosmetic ingredient under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (INCI: Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-3) in topical formulations. Research-grade SNAP-8 is also available as a laboratory compound for in-vitro mechanistic studies.
Molecular information
Pharmacokinetics
SNAP-8 across EU suppliers
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