Matrixyl

Research Reagent · Laboratory Use Only

How does Matrixyl stimulate collagen production in skin?

Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) is a fragment of type I procollagen conjugated to a palmitoyl chain that signals dermal fibroblasts via the matrikine pathway to upregulate collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin synthesis. Clinical studies of topical formulations show measurable wrinkle reduction after 12 weeks.

Scientific AbstractPMID 15725106 · 2005

Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, KTTKS) is a synthetic pentapeptide derived from the C-terminal procollagen I propeptide, conjugated to a palmitoyl fatty acid chain to enhance lipid solubility and skin penetration. Acting as a matrikine, Matrixyl signals dermal fibroblasts to upregulate collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin synthesis, supporting extracellular matrix remodeling. Clinical studies of topical formulations demonstrate measurable reductions in wrinkle depth and improvements in skin density after 12 weeks of application. Matrixyl is widely incorporated into cosmetic anti-aging formulations.

Mechanistic Research SummaryCurated from PubMed

This data is for laboratory research purposes only. Not for human or animal consumption.

What is Matrixyl?

Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, KTTKS-palmitoyl) is a topical cosmetic peptide engineered to stimulate dermal collagen production through matrikine signaling.

Mechanism of Action

The KTTKS pentapeptide sequence is a fragment of type I procollagen that fibroblasts recognize as a signal of extracellular matrix damage, triggering upregulation of collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin synthesis. The palmitoyl chain enhances penetration through the stratum corneum.

Observed Laboratory Results

  • Collagen I and III synthesis upregulation in cultured fibroblasts
  • Wrinkle depth reduction measured by skin profilometry in human studies
  • Skin density improvement by ultrasound at 12 weeks
  • Safety profile comparable to placebo in clinical cosmetic trials
Clinical Research ParametersHuman Study Registry

No registered clinical trials or indexed human study data currently available for Matrixyl via ClinicalTrials.gov or PubMed. This compound may be at preclinical or early research stages.

All data presented on this page is for laboratory research purposes only. Matrixyl is referenced here as a research reagent. This page does not constitute medical advice, clinical guidance, or endorsement of any compound for human or animal use. All referenced studies are available via PubMed (PMID: 15725106) and the DOI-linked journal publication. Researchers must consult applicable institutional and regulatory frameworks before conducting any protocols.