Cartalax

In simple words

Cartalax is a short peptide of three amino acids created in Khavinson's laboratory for cartilage tissue. It is studied as a substance that may support joint cartilage, but so far only in cell experiments.

What this molecule is

Ala-Glu-Asp — 3 aa. Khavinson cartilage bioregulator. ~345 Da.

Why it is studied

A cartilage tissue bioregulator. Stimulates chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs in culture. ↑Synthesis of collagen II and proteoglycans in vitro. Used for osteoarthritis and degenerative joint diseases. No clinical RCTs.

How it works

Epigenetic activation of chondrogenesis genes (SOX9, COL2A1, ACAN). Transport via POT/LAT carriers. ↑Differentiation of MSCs into chondrocytes.

Doses used in studies

Studies used 10 mg IM once/day × 10-20 days, 2-3 courses per year.

Combined with in studies

• AOD-9604 — for OA, intra-articular
• GHK-Cu — articular cartilage matrix
• Calcitonin — antiresorptive

Level of evidence

Level C-D Animal studies. Effects have been shown in animals. Whether they carry over to humans has not been proven. in vitro/reviews only

Important to know

⚠️ No clinical RCTs. Data only in vitro and from Khavinson's laboratory. Research only.

Studies in PubMed

1. [Chondrocytes secretory phenotype associated with aging: role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and prospects for peptide bioregulation.] (Adv Gerontol, 2023)
2. [The influence of peptides on the chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells during replicative aging.] (Adv Gerontol, 2023)
3. Peptide Regulation of Chondrogenic Stem Cell Differentiation. (Int J Mol Sci, 2023)
4. Transport of Biologically Active Ultrashort Peptides Using POT and LAT Carriers. (Int J Mol Sci, 2022)
5. Peptide Regulation of Gene Expression: A Systematic Review. (Molecules, 2021)