What is Elastin-derived peptide?
VGVAPG is a six-amino-acid sequence found in elastin. Fragments of elastin that act on cells are called elastokines or matrikines, and some of them signal cells to make more elastin.
Synthetic copies of the sequence are sometimes sold in serums and creams. Labels may show it as part of a blend or under a trade name.
How it is thought to work
In a 2015 study, synthetic VGVAPG and two related sequences increased elastin gene expression, tropoelastin protein and new elastic fibres in cultured human dermal fibroblasts and in skin explants.
The authors describe two signalling routes, both starting at an elastin receptor and involving the IGF-1 receptor.
What the studies show
Every record below was checked against the paper. Where a result is from cells, animals or a combination product, the entry says so.
Qa’aty N, et al. J Dermatol Sci. 2015;80(3):175–185. (opens in a new tab)
Industry-authored
Design. Cultured human dermal fibroblasts and cultured human skin explants, with VGVAPG and two related synthetic sequences. One co-author is from a company, Human Matrix Sciences.
Finding. Each sequence increased new elastin production in cells and in skin explants. The authors call the peptides biologically safe, but this is not backed by a human safety study in the records checked.
How it is used
Check whether a product uses the bare VGVAPG sequence or a larger elastin-derived molecule. The studies here tested synthetic sequences of this kind.
Amounts used in products are rarely disclosed.
Safety
No human safety data for this sequence appear in the records checked. The lab studies do not report skin reactions.
Patch-test new products before regular use.
Talk to a doctor, dermatologist or pharmacist before starting a new active, especially if you are pregnant, have a skin condition, or use prescription treatments.
Questions
Is VGVAPG the same as elastin?
No. It is a short sequence found within elastin. Cell studies test synthetic copies of it.
Does it firm skin?
Lab studies show it can increase new elastin fibres in skin cells and explants. The records checked include no controlled human firmness trial of this sequence alone. A related elastin-derived peptide has a small human trial; see its entry.