Lipopeptide (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 / Pal-GQPR)
Lipopeptide (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 / Pal-GQPR) research profile covering evidence quality, proposed mechanisms, safety considerations, regulatory status,…
Evidence-led profile
Research snapshot
- Evidence stage
- Emerging research
- References
- 1 linked sources
- Editorial review
- Jul 7, 2026
Published by the PepGuide Editorial Team using our research methodology.
Overview
The compound generically labelled 'lipopeptide' here is palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (sequence Pal-Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg, or Pal-GQPR), a Sederma cosmetic active also sold as Biopeptide EL and, historically, as Rigin (formerly palmitoyl tetrapeptide-3). The GQPR core is a fragment of immunoglobulin G with immunomodulating activity; attaching a C16 palmitoyl chain makes the molecule lipophilic enough to cross the stratum corneum. The general principle that palmitoylation dramatically increases skin penetration of short peptides was established by Lintner & Peschard (2000), the founding work behind cosmetic peptides such as Matrixyl.
In skin, the peptide reduces basal and UV-induced secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) by keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Because IL-6 promotes matrix-metalloproteinase activity and collagen degradation, dampening it is proposed to slow inflammation-driven loss of firmness and elasticity. It is most commonly formulated alongside palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (which stimulates collagen via TGF-beta signalling) in the commercial blend Matrixyl 3000, pairing anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating mechanisms.
Usage is exclusively topical: it appears in serums and creams at low active concentrations (typically well under 10 ppm of the peptide, or a few percent of the supplied trade solution) applied once or twice daily. Evidence is largely from manufacturer and cosmetic-science studies rather than large independent clinical trials; it is regarded as a cosmetic ingredient, not a drug.
Mechanism of Action
The GQPR motif mimics an anti-inflammatory immunoglobulin fragment; the peptide corrects the age-related rise in IL-6 that parallels declining DHEA, curbing IL-6-driven MMP-1 expression and collagen breakdown after UV exposure. Palmitoylation raises lipophilicity so the peptide reaches viable epidermis and dermis. Paired with a collagen-stimulating peptide in Matrixyl 3000, it addresses both the degradation and synthesis arms of matrix turnover.
Safety and Limitations
Lipopeptide (Biopeptide EL) is used in topical cosmetic formulations and is generally well-tolerated. As a topical agent with limited systemic absorption, it has a favorable safety profile for cosmetic applications. No significant adverse effects have been reported at standard cosmetic use concentrations.
Research protocol summary
- Route
- Topical
These values summarize cataloged research protocols. They are not personal dosing instructions or medical guidance.
Reconstitution Calculator
Pharmacokinetic Profile
- Half-life
- Not established
Molecular Structure
- Weight
- 736.98 Da
- CAS
- Not Available
Research Protocols
topical
Safety Profile Lipopeptide (Biopeptide EL) is used in topical cosmetic formulations and is generally well-tolerated. As a topical agent with limited systemic absorption, it has a favorable safety profile for cosmetic applications.
Quality Indicators
What to look for
- Well-established safety profile
Frequently Asked Questions
References (1)
- [1]Lintner K, Peschard O Biologically active peptides: from a laboratory bench curiosity to a functional skin care product International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2000)
→ Foundational cosmetic-peptide paper showing that palmitoylation of short bioactive peptides increases stratum corneum penetration 100-1000 fold, the delivery principle behind palmitoylated tetra/tripeptides used in anti-aging skincare.
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