Cartalax
Lab-Tested ≥98% Purity · Certificate of Analysis Included · Global Shipping
Cartalax (Ala-Glu-Asp) — Cartilage Bioregulator Peptide for Musculoskeletal Research
Cartalax is a synthetic tripeptide bioregulator (Ala-Glu-Asp) developed at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology under the direction of Professor Vladimir Khavinson. While sharing the AED sequence with Bronchogen, Cartalax has been specifically characterized and optimized for its regulatory effects on cartilage tissue homeostasis and chondrocyte function. Published research has demonstrated its capacity to modulate extracellular matrix synthesis, normalize chondrocyte metabolism, and promote cartilage tissue resilience in both aged and mechanically stressed experimental models.
Mechanism of Action
Cartalax interacts with DNA sequences in promoter regions of genes critical for cartilage extracellular matrix maintenance. The tripeptide modulates transcription of type II collagen (COL2A1), aggrecan (ACAN), and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) through chromatin remodeling at chondrocyte-specific gene loci. Research has also demonstrated Cartalax-mediated upregulation of SOX9—the master transcription factor for chondrocyte phenotype maintenance—while reducing expression of catabolic enzymes including MMP-13 and ADAMTS-5 that drive cartilage matrix degradation.
Key Research Areas
- Chondrocyte Metabolism: In-vitro studies on primary human articular chondrocytes have demonstrated that Cartalax increases glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis rates and type II collagen deposition in three-dimensional pellet culture systems, with effects measurable by Alcian blue staining and hydroxyproline assays.
- Matrix Protection: Research has shown that Cartalax reduces IL-1β-stimulated MMP-13 expression and aggrecan degradation fragment generation in cartilage explant cultures, suggesting anti-catabolic properties relevant to osteoarthritis research.
- Stem Cell Chondrogenesis: Studies on mesenchymal stem cell differentiation have observed enhanced chondrogenic commitment when Cartalax is included in differentiation media, with increased SOX9 and COL2A1 expression compared to standard protocols.
- Age-Related Cartilage Changes: Histological analysis of articular cartilage from aged Cartalax-treated animals has shown preserved Safranin-O staining intensity, maintained cartilage thickness, and reduced surface fibrillation scores compared to untreated controls.
Technical Specifications
- Dosage per vial: 10mg lyophilized powder
- Purity: ≥98% (HPLC verified)
- Sequence: Ala-Glu-Asp (AED tripeptide)
- Molecular Weight: 333.29 Da
- Storage: -20°C, protected from light
Why Researchers Choose Peptides BioLab
Every batch of Cartalax supplied by Peptides BioLab undergoes rigorous HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis, ensuring ≥98% purity verified by an independent Certificate of Analysis (CoA). Our product is supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability, shipped worldwide in temperature-controlled packaging.
Related Research Peptides
Researchers studying cartilage biology and musculoskeletal repair may also find these compounds relevant: BPC-157, TB-500, and GHK-Cu. For a complete overview, browse our Recovery Research collection.
For research purposes only — Not for human consumption. All products are intended solely for in-vitro research and laboratory use.
Every Peptides BioLab product includes a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with HPLC and MS data confirming ≥98% purity. The CoA is available in the product tabs as the 2nd image, or contact our team to request a copy.
Shipping: We ship worldwide from our state-of-the-art facilities. Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Express and standard shipping options available at checkout.
Storage: Store lyophilized peptides at -20°C for long-term storage. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 30 days. Keep away from direct sunlight.