What Is Snap-8?
Snap-8, also known as Acetyl Octapeptide-3, is a synthetic octapeptide composed of eight amino acid residues. It belongs to the class of short synthetic peptides.
The molecule contains an N-terminal acetyl group and a C-terminal amide group. Its sequence is Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2.
Research Overview Table
Chemical and Molecular Characteristics
Chemical Name: N-acetyl-L-alpha-glutamyl-L-alpha-glutamyl-L-methionyl-L-glutaminyl-L-arginyl-L-arginyl-L-alanyl-L-alpha-asparagine Compound Name: Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (SNAP-8) Compound Type: Synthetic acetylated octapeptide Molecular Formula: C41H70N16O16S Molecular Weight: 1075.16 g/mol Purity: 99.6% CAS Number: 868844-74-0 Batch/Lot Number: 20250916038 Primary Research Target: SNAP-25 / SNARE-related biology Product Format(s): Lyophilized vials, nasal sprays, or pre-mixed injection pen Physical Presentation: Supplied as sterile lyophilized powder or pre-formulated liquid, depending on the selected product format
Certificates:
CoA: https://slovenia.direct-sarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SNAP-8_COA.pdf HPLC: https://slovenia.direct-sarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SNAP-8_HPLC.pdf
Mechanism of Action Under Investigation
SNAP-8 was designed from the N-terminal region of SNAP-25, which participates in SNARE-complex assembly. The proposed mechanism is competitive interference with SNAP-25 interactions during SNARE assembly, potentially affecting the protein interactions required for vesicle fusion. However researchers have not directly demonstrated this interaction with SNAP-8 itself.
Studies using related SNAP-25-derived peptides found that these sequences can interfere with SNAP-25/syntaxin interactions and inhibit calcium-dependent exocytosis. Those experiments provide the biochemical basis for investigating SNAP-8, but they do not demonstrate the same downstream effect for SNAP-8. Its direct molecular interaction and resulting biochemical consequences therefore remain unresolved.
Scientific Research Context
SNAP-8 has drawn scientific interest as a synthetic peptide used in formulation and analytical research. Work in this area includes peptide measurement, microneedle delivery and skin-related formulation research. The available literature does not show that Snap-8 research comes primarily from in vitro or preclinical animal models. Instead, the published record includes analytical work and human studies involving formulations that contain Snap-8 alongside other ingredients. This distinction matters because those studies do not establish the biological effects of Snap-8 as an isolated compound.
SNAP-8 Biology and Biological Pathways
Primary Biological Function
SNAP-8 is a synthetic peptide, so it has no established endogenous biological function. Its sequence is based on part of SNAP-25, a SNARE protein that participates in calcium-dependent vesicle fusion and regulated exocytosis. The available SNAP-8 literature does not establish a separate biological role for the peptide itself.
Relevant Metabolic or Signalling Pathways
The relevant biology centers on the SNARE pathway, rather than a metabolic pathway. SNAP-25 forms part of the SNARE machinery that drives membrane fusion. In neuronal and neuroendocrine cells, this machinery participates in calcium-dependent exocytosis.
Tissue-Specific Biology
Studies place SNAP-25 in neurons and several secretory cell types. Research has detected the protein in adrenal chromaffin cells, anterior pituitary cells and pancreatic endocrine cells. In these tissues, SNAP-25 occurs at the plasma membrane or within SNARE complexes associated with regulated secretion.
Experimental Biomarkers
No biomarker has been established specifically for SNAP-8. In SNAP-25 research, investigators have measured SNAP-25 expression, SNARE complex formation, exocytosis and fusion-pore activity. Some studies also track catecholamine release with electrochemical detection, and SNAP-25 changes using fluorescence methods.
Laboratory Investigation Methods
Researchers have analyzed SNAP-8 directly by LC-MS/MS, using multiple-reaction monitoring to identify and quantify the peptide in biodegradable microneedle patches. SNAP-25 research uses biochemical assays, cell-based systems, electrophysiology, fluorescence-based methods and carbon-fiber amperometry to examine SNARE complexes and exocytosis.
Experimental Models Used in Published Research
The published SNAP-8 literature includes human formulation research and analytical testing of microneedle patches. The models below are limited to those directly documented for SNAP-8.
Human Formulation Model
Healthy human participants received microneedle formulations containing acetyl octapeptide-3 with other active ingredients. The limitation is the multi-ingredient formulation, which prevents effects from being assigned specifically to SNAP-8.
Microneedle Patch Model
Biodegradable microneedle patches containing acetyl octapeptide-3 were used for analytical measurement. The limitation is that this is a formulation-based analytical model rather than a cellular, tissue, or animal model.
SNAP-8 Published Research
Microneedle Patch Formulations
A hyaluronic-acid microneedle patch containing SNAP-8 and other bioactive ingredients was evaluated in healthy subjects with aged skin. The study examined skin hydration, wrinkle measurements, dermal density and dermal thickness.
Dissolving Microneedle Patches
The study examined a dissolving microneedle patch containing acetyl octapeptide-3, L-ascorbic acid 2-glucoside and sodium cyclic lysophosphatidic acid. Twenty-four healthy subjects used the patch around the eyes, with a hyaluronic acid placebo used for comparison. The researchers assessed wrinkle appearance, transepidermal water loss, skin elasticity, and eye lifting.
Peptide-Based Facial Serum
Researchers examined a facial serum containing SNAP-8 among several neuropeptides, proteins, amino acids and marine extracts using human skin explants and a 12-week clinical study. The work focused on skin microrelief, smoothness, epidermal thickness, hydration, and visible facial aging.
Multi-Ingredient Skin Formulations
SNAP-8 has also been included in other multi-component skin formulations investigated in experimental animal research. A recent rat study examined a plant-based exosome formulation containing SNAP-8 among numerous other ingredients. The formulation design prevents assessment of SNAP-8 as an isolated component.
Limitations of Current Research
Evidence Is Predominantly Preclinical
SNAP-8 does not have a predominantly preclinical evidence base. Human studies have evaluated formulations containing SNAP-8, including hyaluronic-acid microneedle patches. At the same time, there is limited research examining SNAP-8 as an isolated compound.
Human Clinical Evidence
The main limitation is that human studies have examined SNAP-8 only within multi-ingredient formulations. This design does not allow the effects of SNAP-8 to be separated from those of the other components.
Species Differences
No SNAP-8-specific animal studies have been established in the published literature. As a result, there is not enough evidence to assess whether responses to SNAP-8 differ between species or how findings from animal models would relate to humans.
Study Design Limitations
The main limitation is the use of multi-ingredient formulations. Since SNAP-8 was tested alongside other active components, the study designs do not allow its individual effects to be separated from those of the complete formulations.
Independent Replication
The published SNAP-8 studies come from a limited number of investigations, and the formulations differ between them. This leaves little direct evidence showing that the same findings can be reproduced independently under comparable conditions.
Long-Term Evidence
The published SNAP-8 clinical literature provides limited information on outcomes beyond the study periods reported. It also does not establish long-term evidence for SNAP-8 as an isolated compound, since the clinical studies evaluated it within multi-ingredient formulations.
Analytical Documentation
HPLC separates components within a sample and can support assessments of purity, composition and related impurities. It provides chromatographic data that laboratories can compare with established specifications.
LC-MS combines chromatographic separation with mass spectrometric detection. It can provide information about molecular identity, molecular mass, impurities, and quantity. LC-MS/MS has also been used specifically to identify and quantify SNAP-8 in a research formulation.
NMR can provide structural information and, in some applications, quantitative measurements. Its suitability depends on the material, concentration, and purpose of the analysis.
A Certificate of Analysis records batch specific analytical results against stated specifications. Together, these records support laboratory quality assessment and help document material identity and quality. Analytical documentation verifies product identity and quality, not biological performance.
Storage and Laboratory Handling
Store the material at 2–8°C, according to the product specifications. Keep the product in its original container and protect it from conditions that could affect its quality.
Laboratory handling should be carried out by qualified personnel familiar with appropriate chemical and laboratory safety procedures. Use clean handling practices and avoid unnecessary exposure of the material to air, moisture, heat, or other potential sources of contamination.
Keep containers properly closed when not in use. Use suitable laboratory equipment and maintain a clean working area to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Why Researchers Choose Direct SARMs?
Direct SARMs is an established supplier of research peptides. We are committed to product quality, reliable service, and helpful customer support.
Our European-made products undergo rigorous purity testing, with clear product information provided for each research material. We also aim to provide dependable shipping and a smooth ordering experience.
Our support team is available to assist with orders, shipping, payments, and general questions. At Direct SARMs, we aim to make the research supply process simple, clear, and reliable.
Frequently asked questions
Why choose us?
Direct SARMs Slovenia is an established supplier of research peptides. We are committed to product quality, reliable service, and helpful customer support.
Our European-made products undergo rigorous purity testing, with clear product information provided for each research material. We also aim to provide dependable shipping and a smooth ordering experience.
Our support team is available to assist with orders, shipping, payments, and general questions. At Direct SARMs Slovenia, we aim to make the research supply process simple, clear, and reliable.