Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 is a synthetic biomimetic peptide made up of four amino acid residues.

In recent years it has gained significant attention as an active ingredient within cosmetics and dermatology; products promoting hair growth and treating hair loss being prime examples.

Sequence

Ac-Lys-Gly-His-Lys

CAS Number

827306-88-7

Molecular Formula

C22H38N8O6

Molecular Weight

510.61 g/mol

Research Of Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3

The core mechanism of action for this peptide is directly or indirectly stimulating dermal fibroblasts and dermal papilla cells (DPCs) to synthesize and secrete key Type III collagen.

Type III collagen itself is a structurally important presence in the dermal layer of the skin, connective tissue specifically surrounding the hair follicle – flexible structural support being the primary function attributed to it.

Following treatment with Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, quantitative analysis showed a +65% increase in Type III collagen expression, laminin being another closely tracked marker (+285% increase).

Type VII collagen forms the primary anchoring fibers, firmly linking the basement membrane to the dermis below.

Research has shown Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 reversing cortisol-induced declines in this collagen type, thereby repairing and reinforcing the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) structure.

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 enhances hair follicle adhesion to the scalp, while also promoting new follicle development.

In vitro and ex vivo studies have comprehensively validated the previously mentioned mechanism.

Nanoliposomes composed of copper peptides, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 and myristoyl pentapeptide-4 have been proven to promote hair growth through all the above pathways.

Clinical efficacy has been established.

A 24-week, randomized, triple-blind controlled trial compared the herbal formulation (containing Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 as part of its active ingredients) to 3% minoxidil, and demonstrated comparable efficacy in treating androgenetic alopecia with a favorable safety profile.