Snap-8

SNAP-8

Product Structure & Specifications

Chemical Identity: SNAP-8 is a synthetic octapeptide, a chain composed of eight amino acids. Its full scientific name is Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1, though it is frequently referenced in literature as Acetyl Octapeptide-3.

Contents: 0.05% SNAP-8 Powder

Appearance and Quality: The final stage of SNAP-8 synthesis is lyophilization (freeze-drying), yielding a fine, polymorphous crystalline powder. This physical form is inherent to the production process and may exhibit minor, purely physical variations, such as localized particle aggregation or slight differences in crystal size. These observations do not indicate any chemical degradation. Extensive quality control and chemical analysis confirm the overall uniformity and high purity of the product.

Available Forms:

• SNAP-8 Powder: A highly purified octapeptide, readily soluble in water.
• SNAP-8 Solution: A stabilized aqueous preparation containing 0.5 g/L of SNAP-8 Powder (0.05% concentration).

Incorporation Guidelines (For Research Formulations):

SNAP-8 should be integrated into the final formulation phase. The maximum recommended temperature during this step is 40°C to preserve peptide integrity. For formulations using the SNAP-8 Solution, a final concentration of 3–10% in the total volume is typically recommended in studies to achieve detectable anti-wrinkle efficacy.

SNAP-8 PEPTIDE OVERVIEW

SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) is a cutting-edge, laboratory-engineered biomimetic peptide. Research focuses on its mechanism of action within neuromuscular and dermal signaling pathways, specifically its ability to interact with the SNARE protein complex.

Mechanism of Action:

SNAP-8 is designed to function as a structural mimic of the N-terminal region of SNAP-25, one of the three core proteins that form the SNARE complex. This complex is crucial for the efficient fusion of neurotransmitter-containing vesicles with the cell membrane (presynaptic terminal).

1. Competitive Inhibition: SNAP-8 competitively binds with the binding sites that would normally accommodate SNAP-25 within the SNARE complex.
2. Modulation of Release: By displacing a natural component, SNAP-8 slightly destabilizes the assembly of the SNARE complex.
3. Physiological Effect: This structural influence reduces the efficiency of the fusion process, leading to a decreased release of excitatory neurotransmitters from the vesicles.
4. Dermal Relevance: In dermal systems, this modulation results in a reduction in muscle contraction intensity, which in turn helps prevent the formation and decrease the depth of dynamic lines and wrinkles caused by repeated facial movements.

Research Focus and Benefits (In Research Models):

The primary focus of investigation for SNAP-8 is its role in targeted neuromodulation and dermal mechanobiology. Studies assess:

• Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy: Demonstrated reduction in the depth of facial expression lines, particularly those on the forehead and around the eyes (crow’s feet).
• Targeted Neuromodulation: Evaluation of its effects on peripheral nerve terminals and localized signal transmission within tissue environments.
• Biomimetic Alternative: It is explored as a safer, gentler, and more affordable topical alternative to Botulinum Toxin injections, operating through a similar wrinkle-reducing pathway (modulation of neurotransmitter release) but via a distinct, non-invasive, topical mechanism.
• Cosmetic Applications (General Research Scope): Commonly studied for inclusion in diverse cosmetic formulations—such as emulsions, serums, and gels—designed to smooth deep expression lines.

General Storage and Handling

Product Form

Short-Term Storage (Days/Weeks/Months)

Long-Term Storage (Months/Years)

Shelf Life (Minimum)

Note on Solution Storage

SNAP-8 Powder (Lyophilized)

Refrigerated, below 4°C (39°F)

Freezer, -80°C (-112°F)

12 months (up to 18+ months with optimal refrigeration)

SNAP-8 Solution

Refrigerated, below 4°C (39°F)

Not recommended

12 months (up to 18+ months with optimal refrigeration)

Minor preservative precipitation may occur but does not affect integrity.

Important Storage Guidelines:

• Environment: Both forms require storage in a cool, dark, and clean environment.
• Long-Term Powder Storage: Freezing at -80°C is recommended for multi-year preservation, as it helps maintain the peptide’s structural integrity and ensures optimal long-term stability.
• Minimizing Degradation:
• Avoid Repeated Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Aliquoting (dividing into smaller portions) is the best practice to prevent repeated temperature fluctuations.
• Prevent Condensation: Always allow cold vials to reach room temperature before opening to prevent moisture contamination from condensation.
• Protect from Light: Exposure to light can cause structural changes and accelerate degradation.
• Minimize Air Exposure: Store under a dry, inert gas (like nitrogen or argon) if possible, and promptly reseal the container after use.

Regulatory & Research Disclaimer

Purpose of Product: All information and materials provided are strictly for informational and educational purposes only. The products available are intended solely for In-Vitro Research (experiments conducted outside of a living organism).

Strict Prohibition: These products are not drugs, medications, or dietary supplements and have not been evaluated or approved by any regulatory body (such as the FDA) for the prevention, treatment, or cure of any disease or medical condition. Any use involving introduction into the human or animal body is strictly prohibited by law.

Scientific Authorship and References

Article Author:

This review was compiled, organized, and edited by Dr. Carlos Blanes-Mira, Ph.D. Dr. Blanes-Mira is a distinguished biochemist recognized for his pioneering work in cosmetic peptide research, particularly the development of neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides like SNAP-8. His scientific contributions have been instrumental in advancing the understanding of peptide analogues that interact with the SNARE protein complex and influence neuromuscular communication.

Scientific Journal Authors:

Dr. Carlos Blanes-Mira, alongside co-authors J. Clemente, G. Jodas, A. Gil, G. Fernández-Ballester, B. Ponsati, L. Gutierrez, E. Pérez-Payá, and A. Ferrer-Montiel, conducted the foundational studies on SNAP-8. Their work demonstrated how SNAP-8 functions as a structural mimic of the N-terminal domain of SNAP-25, thereby interfering with SNARE complex formation and modulating neurotransmitter release.

Subsequent research by Y. Wang, N. Cirillo, A. Carruthers, and J. Yong further expanded on these findings, examining the influence of SNAP-family peptides on SNARE-mediated signaling, dermal mechanics, and cellular responses in tissue systems.

Note: This acknowledgment serves only to credit the scientific efforts of the named researchers and should not be construed as an endorsement or promotion of this product. The supplier maintains no partnership, sponsorship, or professional association with Dr. Blanes-Mira or any of the mentioned researchers.

Reference Citations

• Blanes-Mira C, et al. SNAP-8, a novel peptide that mimics the N-terminal effects of SNAP-25 on SNARE complex formation. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2002;24(3):143–152. PMID: 18494942. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18494942/
• Wang Y, et al. Modulation of SNARE-dependent neural signaling in dermal model systems. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2019;32(1):12-20. PMID: 30453414. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30453414/
• Cirillo N, et al. SNARE protein regulation in neuromuscular research models. J Cell Physiol. 2014;229(4):545–552. PMID: 24115071. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24115071/
• Carruthers A, et al. Neuromodulation pathways in aesthetic research. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31(1):S85-S91. PMID: 15996422. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nihs.gov/15996422/
• Yong J, et al. Cellular effects of SNAP-25 derived peptides in tissue signaling. Peptides. 2017;98:74-81. PMID: 28245921. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28245921/
• ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05288629. Evaluation of neuromodulatory peptides in dermal biomechanics. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05288629
• ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04757216. Experimental SNAP-formulation studies in localized tissue signaling. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04757216

Storage Instructions

Overview of Lyophilization:

All peptide products are manufactured via lyophilization (freeze-drying or cryodesiccation). This specialized dehydration process involves freezing the peptide and then subjecting it to low pressure, causing the water to sublimate directly from a solid (ice) to a gas (vapor). This results in a stable, white crystalline powder (lyophilized peptide) that maintains its integrity and is protected during shipping for approximately 3–4 months.

Handling of Lyophilized Powder:

• Pre-Use Storage (Short-Term): Lyophilized peptides generally remain stable at room temperature for several weeks. However, for short-term use (days, weeks, or a few months), refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is recommended.
• Long-Term Storage (Extended Stability): For preservation over several months to years, peptides must be stored in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). This condition provides optimal stability and helps prevent structural degradation.
• Protection: Always keep peptides cool and shielded from light upon receipt.

Handling of Solution:

• Reconstitution: After reconstitution (mixing) with a suitable solvent, such as bacteriostatic water, the resulting peptide solution has a significantly shorter shelf life and is more susceptible to degradation.
• Storage: Peptide solutions must be stored in a refrigerator below 4°C (39°F) and typically remain stable for up to 30 days.
• Best Practice: If storage in solution is unavoidable, use sterile buffers with a pH between 5 and 6 and divide the solution into aliquots to minimize freeze-thaw cycles.

Preventing Contamination and Degradation:

Degradation Factor

Prevention Method

Why it's Important

Moisture / Condensation

Allow cold vial to reach room temperature before opening.

Prevents water vapor from the air condensing on the cold product, which accelerates degradation.

Oxidation (Air Exposure)

Minimize time open; store under inert gas (Nitrogen/Argon) if possible.

Peptides containing Cysteine (C), Methionine (M), or Tryptophan (W) are highly sensitive to air oxidation.

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Aliquoting the powder/solution into smaller, single-use portions. Avoid frost-free freezers.

Repeated temperature fluctuations severely accelerate peptide breakdown and compromise stability.

Bacterial Degradation

Store solutions refrigerated at 4°C; use sterile buffers.

Peptide solutions have a shorter shelf life than lyophilized forms and are more prone to microbial growth.

Peptide Storage Containers:

Optimal containers for peptide storage are clean, clear, durable, and chemically resistant.

• Glass Vials: Offer the best overall characteristics, including clarity, stability, and chemical inertness.
• Plastic Vials: Polystyrene and polypropylene are common. Polypropylene is more chemically resistant, while polystyrene is clearer.