Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl): Enkephalin-Mimetic Peptide for Expression Lines
Pentapeptide-18 (INCI: Pentapeptide-18, CAS 64963-01-5) is a five-amino-acid synthetic peptide with a molecular weight of 563.64 g/mol. Its sequence – Tyr-D-Ala-Gly-Phe-Leu – replicates the structure of natural enkephalins, endogenous opioid peptides that modulate neurotransmitter release. Known commercially as Leuphasyl, this peptide has established itself as a key ingredient in expression-line treatments that work through neuronal modulation rather than direct muscle paralysis.
Mechanism of Action: Opioid Receptor Activation
Facial expression lines form through repeated muscle contraction driven by neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. Pentapeptide-18 binds to enkephalin (opioid) receptors on the presynaptic neuronal membrane. This binding reduces voltage-dependent calcium channel activity, limiting calcium influx into the nerve terminal. With less intracellular calcium available, the exocytosis of acetylcholine-containing vesicles decreases, resulting in reduced muscle stimulation. The mechanism is fundamentally different from Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3), which inhibits SNAP-25 and blocks SNARE complex assembly on the post-docking side. Because Pentapeptide-18 and Argireline target different steps in neurotransmitter release, they produce a well-documented synergistic effect when combined.
Efficacy Data
A 5% aqueous solution of Pentapeptide-18 reduced wrinkle depth by 20% in a 28-day controlled study, as measured by silicone replica profilometry. When the same concentration was combined with Argireline in a 1:1 ratio, the synergistic effect reached 47% wrinkle depth reduction over the same period – more than double the individual result. This synergy confirms the complementary nature of their mechanisms: Pentapeptide-18 reduces calcium-dependent vesicle mobilization while Argireline prevents vesicle fusion with the presynaptic membrane.
Formulation Guidelines
Pentapeptide-18 is water-soluble and stable between pH 5.0 and 7.0. The recommended use level is 3-8% of the active peptide solution in finished formulations. Keep processing temperatures below 40 degrees Celsius and add during the cool-down phase. The peptide integrates well into aqueous serums, gel-cream textures, and hydrogel masks. For maximum anti-wrinkle efficacy, combine with Argireline at equivalent concentration to exploit the synergistic mechanism. Additional combinations with SYN-AKE (Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate) or Acetyl Octapeptide-3 can further expand the multi-pathway approach to expression-line treatment.
Target Applications
- Anti-wrinkle serums targeting expression lines on forehead, crow feet, and glabellar area
- Botox-alternative treatments combining Pentapeptide-18 with Argireline for 47% synergistic reduction
- Intensive night creams with multi-peptide neuromuscular modulation
- Professional facial masks for in-clinic expression-line protocols
- Preventive anti-aging formulations for early wrinkle intervention
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| INCI Name | Pentapeptide-18 |
| CAS Number | 64963-01-5 |
| Molecular Weight | 563.64 g/mol |
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥98% |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Recommended pH | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Use Level | 3 – 8% of active solution |
| Storage | Below 40 C, protect from light |
Order from TCS NEXUS S.L.
TCS NEXUS S.L. supplies Pentapeptide-18 from our warehouse in Valencia, Spain. All shipments include a Certificate of Analysis covering HPLC purity, mass confirmation, amino acid composition, and residual solvent testing. Evaluation samples start at 1 g, with production orders from 100 g. EU delivery takes 5 to 7 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why combine Pentapeptide-18 with Argireline?
Pentapeptide-18 reduces calcium influx into nerve terminals via opioid receptor activation, while Argireline inhibits SNAP-25 to block vesicle fusion at the presynaptic membrane. These are sequential steps in neurotransmitter release, so combining them creates a compounding effect. Clinical data confirms 47% wrinkle depth reduction with the combination versus 20% for Pentapeptide-18 alone over 28 days.
How does Pentapeptide-18 compare to injectable botulinum toxin?
Both reduce neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction, but through entirely different mechanisms and potencies. Botulinum toxin cleaves SNARE proteins irreversibly, producing temporary muscle paralysis. Pentapeptide-18 modulates calcium channel activity reversibly through opioid receptor binding. The topical peptide approach delivers gradual, cumulative results without the injection procedure or risk of localized muscle atrophy.
What concentration should be used in a finished anti-wrinkle serum?
The recommended range is 3-8% of the active peptide solution. For a synergistic formulation, use Pentapeptide-18 at 5% alongside Argireline at 5% in a water-based serum at pH 5.5-6.5. Process below 40 degrees Celsius and add both peptides during the cool-down phase to preserve bioactivity.
Technical Support and Samples
Request COA documents, sample availability, or support for custom synthesis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide COA documents for Pentapeptide-18 Leuphasyl Supplier Europe?
Yes. Each lot can be supplied with a Certificate of Analysis, HPLC purity data, and relevant quality-control results for technical review.
Are samples available for Pentapeptide-18 Leuphasyl Supplier Europe?
Yes. Sample availability can be confirmed for formulation screening and internal evaluation before a commercial order is placed.
What is the delivery lead time for Pentapeptide-18 Leuphasyl Supplier Europe?
For stocked material in Valencia, EU delivery is typically 5 to 7 business days. Final timing depends on destination and requested volume.
Do you also support custom synthesis and technical inquiries?
Yes. The team can help with custom synthesis, raw-material selection, technical documentation, and supply planning.