Overview
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (also known as Pal-GHK or palmitoyl-Gly-His-Lys) is a lipophilic derivative of the GHK copper-binding tripeptide, modified with a palmitic acid chain at the N-terminus. The palmitoylation dramatically improves skin penetration by increasing lipophilicity, enabling the GHK sequence to penetrate the lipid-rich stratum corneum far more efficiently than unmodified GHK. FenaLife supplies Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 for research use only.
Research Background
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is a widely used cosmetic peptide with a research base in dermatology and transdermal delivery. It is one of the components of the commercial Matrixyl formulation. Research has documented collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin synthesis stimulation in fibroblast models, with in vivo studies reporting improvements in skin firmness and reduction in wrinkle depth metrics in human subjects.
Studied Mechanisms
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is proposed to act as a matrikine — a peptide fragment that signals the extracellular matrix remodeling state. By mimicking a collagen degradation fragment, it may signal to fibroblasts that matrix repair is needed, stimulating new collagen synthesis. The palmitoyl modification provides the lipophilicity required for stratum corneum penetration to reach dermal fibroblasts.
Molecular Profile
Molecular weight: approximately 578.8 g/mol. Palmitoyl-Gly-His-Lys sequence. Purity: ≥98% by HPLC. Lipophilic — requires ethanol or other lipophilic solvent for stock solution preparation.
Storage and Handling
Store at -20°C, protected from light. Prepare stock in ethanol or DMSO, then dilute into aqueous formulation. Store solutions at 4°C and use within 4 weeks.
Research Use Only
For laboratory research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use. Certificate of Analysis available per batch.