SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) is a synthetic peptide fragment that is an elongation of the well-known hexapeptide Argireline. It belongs to a class of research reagents known as "neurotransmitter inhibitors." Preclinical research suggests SNAP-8 mimics the N-terminal end of SNAP-25, a protein essential for the formation of the SNARE complex. By competing for the SNAP-25 binding site, SNAP-8 is investigated for its ability to destabilize the SNARE complex, thereby inhibiting the release of acetylcholine (ACh) at the neuromuscular junction. This mechanism is of primary interest in dermatological research regarding muscle contraction modulation and dermal topography. Supplied as a lyophilized powder strictly for laboratory research.

Area of Interest

Research on SNAP-8 has focused on dermatological and neuromuscular pathways:

• SNARE Complex Inhibition: Investigated for its ability to prevent the fusion of neurotransmitter vesicles with the cell membrane, effectively "muting" the signal for muscle contraction in tissue models.
• Dermal Topography: Studies examine the correlation between reduced neuromuscular signaling and the formation of dynamic lines (wrinkles) in skin explants.
• Comparative Efficacy: Often researched alongside Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline) to evaluate potency; SNAP-8 is hypothesized to be a more stable and potent inhibitor of the SNARE complex.
• Topical Permeability: Research focuses on formulation stability and transdermal delivery vectors for cosmetic science applications.

These properties make SNAP-8 a critical reagent for laboratories studying the biochemistry of skin aging and neuromuscular signaling without the use of botulinum toxins.

Technical Information

• Chemical Name: Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (SNAP-8)
• Synonyms: SNAP-8, Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-3
• Molecular Formula: C₄₁H₇₀N₁₆O₁₆S
• Molecular Weight: 1075.16 g/mol
• Sequence: Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2
• Mechanism: SNAP-25 Mimetic / SNARE Complex Inhibitor
• Peptide Classification: Neuropeptide / Cosmetic Peptide

Storage Guidelines

• Lyophilized peptide is stable at room temperature for several weeks.
• For long-term storage, keep at −20°C or below.

• Once reconstituted, store at 2–8 °C. Effective use depends on the solution used.

Solubility

SNAP-8 is water-soluble. It can be reconstituted in sterile water, saline, or bacteriostatic water.

References

• Blanes-Mira, C., et al. (2002). “A synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) with antiwrinkle activity.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Foundational research on the mechanism extended by SNAP-8). https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1467-2494.2002.00153.x
• Lupo, M. P., & Cole, A. L. (2007). “Cosmeceutical peptides.” Dermatologic Therapy, 20(5), 343–349. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1529-8019.2007.00148.x
• Gorouhi, F., & Maibach, H. I. (2009). “Role of topical peptides in preventing or treating aged skin.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 31(5), 327–345. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00490.x

Certificate of Analysis (COA): Available here