Description

SNAP-8 Peptide Overview

SNAP-8 peptide (Synaptosomal-associated protein 8) is a synthetic octapeptide derived from the N-terminal end of SNAP-25. It contains eight amino acids and features acetylation at the N-terminus and amidation at the C-terminus. Its structure is:
Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2.

Researchers developed SNAP-8 to mimic and compete with SNAP-25, a protein that plays a key role in neurotransmitter release.

Mechanism of Action

SNAP-8 works by interfering with proteins involved in vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release. Normally, SNAP-25 interacts with vesicle-associated membrane proteins to allow vesicles to fuse with the cell membrane. As a result, neurotransmitters get released into the synaptic gap.

However, SNAP-8 competes with SNAP-25 for these binding sites. It may bind to Synaptotagmin 1 (Syt1), a calcium-sensitive protein that regulates neurotransmitter release. Molecular docking studies suggest that SNAP-8 interacts with the C2A–C2B interface, mainly through hydrophobic interactions.

Because of this binding, SNAP-8 may disrupt calcium signaling and interfere with normal neurotransmission. Consequently, it destabilizes the SNARE complex, which is essential for vesicle docking and fusion.

As a result, the release of acetylcholine may decrease. Since acetylcholine stimulates muscle contraction, its reduction may relax facial muscles and reduce wrinkle formation. Therefore, SNAP-8 may act as a modulator of neuromuscular activity in skin models. You may also be interested in our related research peptides, including GHRP 2 Peptide, Fragment 176-191, Follistatin 344, LL-37 Peptide, Melanotan 2 Peptide, CJC-1295 DAC Peptide, Adipotide Peptide, MGF peptide, PEG-MGF Peptide, and Vilon Peptide.

Chemical Composition

• Molecular Formula: C41H70N16O6S

• Molecular Weight: 1075.16 g/mol

• Other Names: Acetyl Octapeptide-3, SNAP-8, Synaptosomal-associated protein 8

Effects on Skin Wrinkling

A 2021 double-blind clinical study evaluated SNAP-8 on 55 subjects with various skin types. Participants applied either the peptide serum or a control twice daily for 12 weeks.

Notably, researchers observed visible wrinkle reduction within 15 minutes of application. Furthermore, long-term use showed significant improvement in skin appearance at weeks 4, 8, and 12.

Another study on a similar peptide, Argireline, supports these findings. After four weeks of daily use, participants showed nearly a 49% reduction in wrinkles along with smoother skin texture.

Impact on Skin Topography

Researchers also tested SNAP-8 in an oil-in-water emulsion to assess stability and performance. Over one month, the formulation reduced wrinkle depth by approximately 30%.

In addition, scientists suggest that SNAP-8 may mimic the effects of botulinum-like mechanisms, but without invasive procedures.

Interaction with the SNARE Complex

SNAP-8 may reduce muscle contractions by modulating the SNARE protein complex. One study reported a 43% reduction in glutamate release, indicating decreased neurotransmitter activity.

Moreover, researchers estimate that SNAP-8 may reduce wrinkles by an average of 35%, with peaks up to 62%. These results highlight its potential to improve skin smoothness and reduce expression lines.

Research and Usage

SNAP-8 peptide is primarily intended for research and laboratory use. Users should always review and follow applicable guidelines before use.

References

1. Lim SH, Sun Y, Thiruvallur Madanagopal T, Rosa V, Kang L. Enhanced Skin Permeation of Anti-wrinkle Peptides via Molecular Modification. Sci Rep. 2018 Jan 25;8(1):1596. doi: 10.1038/s41598-017-18454-z. Erratum in: Sci Rep. 2018 Apr 20;8(1):6500. PMID: 29371611; PMCID: PMC5785486. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5785486/
2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2023). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 86080331, SNAP-8(Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-3). from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/SNAP-8_Acetyl-Glutamyl-Heptapeptide-3
3. Nguyen TQ, Zahr AS, Kononov T, Ablon G. A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study Investigating the Efficacy and Tolerability of a Peptide Serum Targeting Expression Lines. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021 May;14(5):14-21. Epub 2021 May 1. PMID: 34188744; PMCID: PMC8211334. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8211334/
4. Wang Y, Wang M, Xiao S, Pan P, Li P, Huo J. The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline, a synthetic hexapeptide, in Chinese subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2013 Apr;14(2):147-53. doi: 10.1007/s40257-013-0009-9. PMID: 23417317. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/
5. Blanes-Mira C, Clemente J, Jodas G, Gil A, Fernández-Ballester G, Ponsati B, Gutierrez L, Pérez-Payá E, Ferrer-Montiel A. A synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) with anti-wrinkle activity. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2002 Oct;24(5):303-10. doi: 10.1046/j.1467-2494.2002.00153.x. PMID: 18498523. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498523/
6. Apland JP, Adler M, Oyler GA. Inhibition of neurotransmitter release by peptides that mimic the N-terminal domain of SNAP-25. J Protein Chem. 2003 Feb;22(2):147-53. doi: 10.1023/a:1023423013741. PMID: 12760419. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12760419/
7. Errante F, Ledwoń P, Latajka R, Rovero P, Papini AM. Cosmeceutical Peptides in the Framework of Sustainable Wellness Economy. Front Chem. 2020 Oct 30;8:572923. doi: 10.3389/fchem.2020.572923. PMID: 33195061; PMCID: PMC7662462. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7662462/
8. Sadowski G, Sadowski J. Safety and Efficacy of a Novel Anti-aging Skin Care Regimen Containing Neutraceuticals and Growth Factors on the Facial Skin of Women: A 12-Week Open-label Study. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020 Jun;13(6):24-34. Epub 2020 Jun 1. PMID: 32884616; PMCID: PMC7442306. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih