Tetrapeptide-26 (trade name Chronogen®) is a synthetically engineered anti-ageing tetrapeptide that has been synthesized through state-of-the-art molecular biology, with design principles rooted in the field of epigenetics.
Its amino acid sequence is H-Ser-Pro-Leu-Gln-NH2 and its molecular weight is approximately 442.51 –443.49 Dalton.
It is generally a white powder with a purity typically exceeding 95% to 98%, and has excellent water-solubility.
As a cosmetic active it is specifically formulated to support the skin’s circadian rhythm, enabling it to defend against external influences during the day and promote regeneration during the night.
Sequence
Ser-Pro-Leu-Gln-NH2
CAS Number
1234463-61-6
Molecular Formula
C19H34N6O6
Molecular Weight
442.51
Tetrapeptide-26 Related Research
1.Core Concept and Mechanism of Action
As one of Tetrapeptide-26’s trade names is Chronogen®, a name indicating its central mode of activity in relation to “time” (Chrono) and gene regulation—it acts by modulating the skin circadian rhythm clock which contributes to its anti-ageing effect.
Being a high purity synthetic peptide, it is usually incorporated at trace levels in formulations and must be stored under cool, dry conditions and protected from light to maintain stability¹.
The anti-ageing activity of Tetrapeptide-26 is achieved not via the conventional inhibition or activation of signaling pathways but through a more subtle epigenetic regulation mechanism, primarily targeting the internal biological clock of skin cells.
2.Circadian Rhythm Genes Modulation
Tetrapeptide-26 helps restore self-repair ability throughout the day-night cycle by maintaining the expression levels of core circadian genes including CLOCK, BMAL1 and PER1, which are disrupted by ultraviolet (UV) damage.
3.DNA Repair Support
This peptide induces the skin’s natural ability to repair DNA damage caused by UV exposure (such as sunburned cells) and increases the synthesis of collagen fibers within the skin for improved elasticity and firmness ².
4.Anti-Photoaging
Tetrapeptide-26 reduces signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and skin laxity by inhibiting molecular pathways related to photoaging.
Tetrapeptide-26 is primarily used in high-end anti-ageing cosmetics, such as night serums and ampoules, to leverage the skin’s maximum repair activity during sleep, thereby enhancing ingredient penetration and efficacy.
It is frequently formulated together with other peptides (for example, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9) or plant extracts (e.g., Albizia Julibrissin Bark Extract), where they synergistically work to minimize glycation-induced damage and reduce visible signs of fatigue, providing a comprehensive anti-ageing benefit ³.
Tetrapeptide-26 represents a novel approach in antiaging based on epigenetic and circadian rhythms.
Its greatest advantage is achieving skin rejuvenation through multi-target mechanisms (DNA repair, rhythm regulation, collagen synthesis).
Although most studies have been performed in vitro or as preliminary clinical trials, its application in cosmetics has already been validated.
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