Cartalax

Overview

Cartalax is a synthetic tripeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp) from the Khavinson bioregulator series, studied for potential effects on cartilage tissue maintenance, chondrocyte function, and musculoskeletal aging.

Mechanism of Action

Cartalax is hypothesized to modulate gene expression in chondrocytes and connective tissue cells, influencing transcription of type II collagen, aggrecan, and SOX9 (a master chondrocyte transcription factor), potentially supporting cartilage extracellular matrix homeostasis.

Research Summary

In vitro studies on human chondrocyte cultures showed increased type II collagen and proteoglycan synthesis markers (Khavinson et al., Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 2016). Animal studies in aged rats showed improved cartilage morphology scores (Linkova et al., Advances in Gerontology, 2017). Research originates from the St. Petersburg Institute.

Dosing Information

Reported Side Effects

• Limited human safety data
• Injection site irritation (preclinical)
• No significant adverse effects in published preclinical studies
• Theoretical MMP-9 suppression may affect normal tissue remodeling

Research References

• Peptide Regulation of Skin Fibroblast Functions during Their Aging In Vitro (2016)