What is SNAP-8?

SNAP-8 is an eight-amino-acid peptide studied mainly in cosmetic research. It is an extended version of the well-known Argireline. Here you can read how SNAP-8 is built, what it acts on in models and how to work with it in the lab.

SNAP-8 at a glance

SNAP-8 has the INCI name acetyl octapeptide-3. It is a version of acetyl hexapeptide-3, better known as Argireline, extended by two amino acids. Its sequence mimics the start of the protein SNAP-25.

  • INCI name: acetyl octapeptide-3
  • Type: acetylated octapeptide (8 amino acids)
  • Sequence: Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2
  • Related to: Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-3)
  • Form: white lyophilized powder

SNAP-25 and the SNARE complex

For a nerve cell to release messenger substances, vesicles must fuse with the cell membrane. The SNARE complex, a bundle of several proteins that includes SNAP-25, makes this happen.

SNAP-8 mimics part of SNAP-25 and competes for its place in the SNARE complex in models. That is why it is studied as a peptide that modulates the SNARE complex.

Research areas

SNAP-8 is mainly studied in these areas:

  • Cosmetic research using skin models
  • Formation of the SNARE complex in in-vitro models
  • Comparisons with Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-3)
  • Formulation of peptides for topical applications in research

SNAP-8 vs GHK-Cu

SNAP-8 and GHK-Cu are often mentioned together in cosmetic research but are very different. GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied in models of collagen synthesis and wound healing. SNAP-8 is a copper-free octapeptide that acts on the SNARE complex.

Storage and quality

Store lyophilized SNAP-8 at −20 °C, dry and protected from light. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic or sterile water and keep the solution at 2–8 °C.

Every batch of SNAP-8 from Virexa Labs is tested by HPLC for ≥99% purity; the COA is on the product page. At Virexa Labs, SNAP-8 is intended solely for laboratory research and not for human or veterinary use.

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Frequently asked questions

Is SNAP-8 the same as Argireline?

No. SNAP-8 (acetyl octapeptide-3) is a version of Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-3) extended by two amino acids.

What does SNAP mean in SNAP-8?

It refers to the protein SNAP-25, whose opening sequence SNAP-8 mimics. The 8 stands for its eight amino acids.

What is the difference between SNAP-8 and GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide; SNAP-8 is a copper-free octapeptide that acts on the SNARE complex in models.

Is SNAP-8 intended for human use?

No. SNAP-8 from Virexa Labs is intended solely for laboratory research and not for human or veterinary consumption.

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