Overview
Argireline is a synthetic hexapeptide derived from the N-terminal sequence of SNAP-25 protein, a key component of the SNARE complex that mediates acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions. It competitively inhibits neurotransmitter vesicle docking, reducing muscle contraction and expression-line formation. Often called "topical Botox," clinical studies show measurable reductions in peri-orbital wrinkle depth with consistent use.
Routes of Administration
Anti-wrinkle cosmetic applications
Research Profile
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Key Research Findings
Side Effects & Safety
Research Search Terms
Links open PubMed searches for peer-reviewed studies on this peptide.
Linked Studies
2 studiesPubMed-indexed research associated with this peptide. Human trials ranked first.
The study of cellular cytotoxicity of argireline - an anti-aging peptide.
Marek Grosicki, Gniewomir Latacz, Annamaria Szopa +2 more
Argireline is well know, innovative anti-aging product used in the cosmetic market. This short chain peptide is used as active ingredient in dermal ointment and creams. Argireline prevents formation of skin lines and wrinkles in a very similar way to the botulinum toxin (Botox), inhibiting neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. Argireline does not require under skin muscle injections and it is believed to be relatively safe. However, despite the fact that some toxicity data has been provided by the product manufacturer, there is an evident lack of reliable information about cytotoxicity of argireline in the literature. The aim of the presented study was to estimate the antiproliferation effect of argireline solution in several concentrations. The influence of argireline on cellular proliferation was examined against: human embryonic kidney HEK-293 cell line, human neuroblastoma IMR-32 cell line, and human primary skin fibroblasts. Tests were performed using formazan-based cell proliferation assay: EZ4U, which allows to measure the efficiency of mitochondrial oxidative activity in living cells. The argireline inhibitory concentration, IC50 values were calculated and the results were compared to the IC50 value of the reference compound: doxorubicin. In conclusion, the considered method resulted in dose-dependent argireline anti-proliferation effects. However, the significant cytotoxicity of argireline solution was observed under 18 to 10 000 fold higher concentrations (depending on cells that were examined) in comparison to doxorubicin.
PubMed ↗The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline, a synthetic hexapeptide, in Chinese subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled study.
Yuan Wang, Mei Wang, Shengxiang Xiao +3 more
Argireline is a synthetic peptide that is patterned from the N-terminal end of the protein SNAP-25 and has been shown to reduce the degree of facial wrinkles. It is reported to inhibit vesicle docking by preventing formation of the ternary SNARE complex and by interfering in catecholamine release. The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline has not been studied in Chinese subjects.
PubMed ↗Related Compounds