Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
Matrixyl is the trade name for palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (Pal-KTTKS), a lipidated form of the pentapeptide Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser derived from the C-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen. It is one of the most cited signal peptides in cosmetic-science research.
Matrixyl Structure and Identifiers
| Name | Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4) |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Pal-KTTKS; palmitoyl pentapeptide-3 (older INCI) |
| CAS number | 214047-00-4 |
| PubChem CID | 9897237 |
| Molecular formula | C39H75N7O10 |
| Molecular weight | ≈802.1 g/mol |
| Sequence | Palmitoyl-Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser |
| Form | Powder |
Why Palmitoylation?
The free pentapeptide KTTKS is hydrophilic. Attaching a C16 palmitoyl chain increases lipophilicity, which is studied for its effect on stability and penetration in formulation research.
Published In-Vitro Research Areas
- Extracellular-matrix protein expression (collagen, fibronectin) in fibroblast cultures
- Formulation and stability studies
- Comparison with copper peptides such as GHK-Cu and Snap-8
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Purity Testing and Storage
Every lot of Matrixyl supplied by Cleared Peptides is tested by an independent laboratory for identity and purity (or composition, for multi-component preparations), and the lot Certificate of Analysis is published on our COA page. Store lyophilized Matrixyl at −20 °C, sealed, dry and protected from light. Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening and minimize freeze–thaw cycles. Handle according to your institution’s chemical-hygiene procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is KTTKS?
KTTKS (Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser) is a fragment of the type I procollagen C-terminal propeptide; Matrixyl is its palmitoylated form.
Is Matrixyl for human use?
No. Cleared Peptides supplies Matrixyl for laboratory research use only; it is not for human or veterinary use.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Palladino P, et al. Conformation and self-association of peptide amphiphiles based on the KTTKS collagen sequence. Langmuir. 2012;28(33):12209-15. PubMed 22834769 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
