Description
What is SNAP‑8?
SNAP‑8 (acetyl glutamyl octapeptide‑3) is a synthetic octapeptide used primarily as a topical cosmetic active—an extended analog of Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide‑3). It is marketed as a “topical botulinum‑like” peptide: it is reported to interfere with the SNARE (SNAP‑25) complex that mediates neurotransmitter‑vesicle docking at the presynaptic membrane, thereby attenuating acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction.
Mechanism of Action
- Competes with SNAP‑25 for incorporation into the SNARE ternary complex at presynaptic nerve terminals
- Attenuates calcium‑triggered vesicle fusion and acetylcholine release, reducing muscle contraction amplitude in in‑vitro neuromuscular assays
- Generally used topically; systemic pharmacology is minimal because intact octapeptides have poor transdermal penetration beyond epidermis
- Reported additive effect with Argireline in cosmetic formulations
Compound Properties
- Sequence: Ac‑Glu‑Glu‑Met‑Gln‑Arg‑Arg‑Ala‑Asp‑NH₂
- Molecular formula: C40H67N15O14
- Molecular weight: ~1002.06 g/mol
- INCI: Acetyl Glutamyl Octapeptide‑3
- Form: Lyophilized powder
- Unit size: 10 mg / vial
- Source: Solid‑phase peptide synthesis; ≥98% purity by HPLC
Research‑Reference Dosing
Published research‑reference ranges:
- Blanes‑Mira et al., International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2002): original SNARE‑mimetic peptide (Argireline) characterization.
- Wang et al., various Int J Cosmet Sci (2013–2017): clinical facial‑wrinkle studies of acetyl hexapeptide‑3 and SNAP‑8 in topical 5–10% formulations.
- Evidence base is almost entirely topical/cosmetic; no systemic human data.
Research Findings
- Modest reduction in expression‑line depth with sustained 4–8 week topical application in cosmetic trials
- Effect size substantially smaller than intramuscular botulinum toxin
- SNAP‑8 marketed as slightly more efficacious than Argireline at equivalent topical concentrations (vendor claim; independent replication limited)
Known Side Effects Reported in Research/Trials
- Topical: generally very well tolerated; rare mild irritation or erythema
- No systemic safety data from peer‑reviewed studies
- Should not be used as a systemic injectable analog of botulinum toxin — mechanism and potency do not translate
Storage & Handling
- Lyophilized (unreconstituted) vials: store at −20°C long‑term; short‑term 2–8°C acceptable.
- After reconstitution with bacteriostatic or sterile water: store at 2–8°C; use within 14–28 days per standard peptide stability guidance.
- Protect from light, heat, and repeated freeze‑thaw cycles. Handle in a sterile laboratory environment.
Certificate of Analysis
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming identity and purity by HPLC / MS is available upon request. Contact Lonestar Peptides for lot‑specific documentation.
Summaries reference peer‑reviewed preclinical and clinical literature available as of early 2025. Newer findings may not be reflected. Researchers should consult current literature and conduct their own due diligence. Lonestar Peptides makes no claim of therapeutic benefit.







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