Description
Cartalax
Synthetic bioactive tripeptide bioregulator of cartilage and connective tissue (Ala-Glu-Asp) for in vitro research on chondrocyte differentiation, epigenetic regulation of type II collagen synthesis, extracellular matrix modulation, and cellular chondroprotection
Overview & Mechanism of Action (In Vitro)
Cartalax (also designated as peptide AED or T-31) is a synthetic ultra-short peptide (tripeptide) composed of three amino acids with the sequence (Ala-Glu-Asp / AED), developed within the framework of short peptide bioregulators targeting osteoarticular and connective tissues. It exhibits high cellular and nuclear membrane permeability, operating primarily through direct epigenetic interactions with chromatin to regulate transcriptional activity rather than classical surface membrane receptor signaling. In molecular orthopedics, regenerative tissue engineering, and biogerontology, it serves as a primary reference model for studying articular cartilage homeostasis and connective tissue remodeling:
- Direct Epigenetic Regulation of Gene Expression in Chondrocytes: Penetrates the nuclear envelope of chondrocytes and fibroblasts to associate with DNA and histone scaffolds, enhancing transcriptional activation of structural cartilage genes.
- Stimulation of Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Synthesis: Upregulates the expression of type II collagen, aggrecan, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in primary chondrocyte cultures, reinforcing matrix density and biomechanical resilience in vitro.
- Inhibition of Matrix Degradation Enzymes: Suppresses the upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (principally MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13) and aggrecanases (ADAMTS-4/5) induced by inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-1$beta$ and TNF-α).
- Suppression of Chondrocyte Senescence & Apoptosis: Preserves cell viability against oxidative and mechanical stress, maintaining mitochondrial functional integrity and preserving proliferative capacity in aged chondrocyte lineages.
Technical & Chemical Specifications
- Classification: Research Tripeptide / Cartilage Peptide Bioregulator (Khavinson Analogue / Peptide T-31)
- Amino Acid Sequence: Ala-Glu-Asp (AED / H-Ala-Glu-Asp-OH)
- Form: Sterile lyophilized white powder (cake)
- Component Identification: Verified via Mass Spectrometry (MS) and analytical HPLC
- Recommended Reconstitution Solvent: Sterile bacteriostatic water or sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)
- Storage Conditions: Store long-term at -20 °C in a dry, dark environment. Following reconstitution, keep refrigerated at 2–8 °C in accordance with standard laboratory protocols.
Scientific References & Literature
- Khavinson, V. K., et al. Peptides regulate gene expression and protein synthesis in cartilage cells during aging and degenerative joint models. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 2012.
- Anisimov, V. N., & Khavinson, V. K. Peptide bioregulators in the control of aging: Epigenetic regulation of connective and cartilage tissue homeostasis. Biogerontology, 2010.
- Khavinson, V. K., et al. Action of short synthetic peptides (Cartalax, AED) on the functional morphology of chondrocytes and extracellular matrix in organotypic tissue cultures. Cell and Tissue Biology, 2014.
- Lin’kova, N. S., et al. Epigenetic mechanisms of short peptide action in human mesenchymal stem cell differentiation and cartilage restoration. Genes, 2020.
Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Purchase
This product is classified and supplied strictly for laboratory, scientific, and in vitro research purposes only (Research Use Only – RUO). This compound is not a drug, medicine, dietary supplement, cosmetic product, or substance intended for human or veterinary consumption, direct administration, injection, or diagnostic procedures.
By placing an order, the purchaser explicitly confirms that they are at least 18 years of age, possess the requisite professional qualifications and laboratory equipment to safely handle research materials, and are fully conversant with all relevant safety protocols for managing research substances. The seller assumes no liability for any use contrary to these terms.




