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SNAP-8 is an anti-wrinkle octapeptide which is the elongated version of the famous hexapeptide Argireline. SNAP-8 is the abbreviation of its full name Synaptosomoal-associated protein 25. As a octapeptide, this peptide is made up of a polypeptide chain that links 8 amino acids. It is also referred to as Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1 or Acetyl Octapeptide and has a molecular weight of 1075.16 Daltons and its molecular formula is C14H70N16O16S1.SNAP-8 mimics the N-terminal end of SNAP-25 and as such it competes with SNAP-25 for a position within the SNARE complex resulting in modulation of its (SNARE complex) formation process. SNAP-25 belongs to the t-SNARE family of about 60 members and it accounts for the specificity of membrane fusion and particularly facilitates fusion by creating a tight complex that links the synaptic vesicle and plasma membranes together. Slight destabilization of the SNARE complex inhibits the efficient release of neurotransmitters by the vesicle and this brings about attenuation of muscle contraction, preventing the formation of wrinkles and lines.
Similarly to Argireline, SNAP-8 inhibits the formation of SNARE complex and it also inhibits the release of catecholamine, this brings about the decrease in the extent of existing facial wrinkles (it reduces the depth of facial wrinkles that are caused by the contraction of the facial expression muscles, particularly those in the forehead and in the eye region) and effectively prevents their development when used on regular basis. SNAP-8 operates as an inhibitor of muscle contractions and as such it allows the muscles to achieve a highly consistent means of achieving homeostasis. It also boosts the production and release of collagen from the cells, this strengthens the cells, making them to alleviate fine lines and furrows.
