What Is a Tripeptide?

A tripeptide is a type of peptide that is formed when amino acids link together in a specific order. Each tripeptide contains three different amino acids. These amino acids are joined by a peptide bond, which is a chemical bond that occurs between two molecules. There are thousands of different tripeptides that scientists have identified. A common tripeptide is isoleucine-proline-proline, also called the milk peptide, which is responsible for keeping blood pressure low and stable.

The main function of tripeptides is cell communication. They also contribute to body functions such as blood pressure regulation and thyroid function. As tripeptides age, however, communication signals may start to deteriorate, which can cause signs of aging and other health issues.

Another type of tripeptide is glutathione which is an anti-oxidant that can be critical in protecting healthy cells from free radicals in the body. Free radicals can cause cell damage that is linked to the development of cancer cells. Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) is a tripeptide responsible for regulating the release of hormones in the thyroid.

There are three classes of tripeptides: rigid, intermediate, and non-rigid. The intermediate group is the largest and accounts for about 78 percent of tripeptides. Approximately 18 percent are classified as rigid and 4 percent are non-rigid. The classification structure was created to group how each tripetide’s structure is similar and how they interact. Classification is determined by measuring the distance between the atoms in the tripeptides.

Tripeptides have become popular with cosmetic companies who are creating anti-aging products. Since the body uses tripeptides for communication, anti-aging proponents believe that topical forms of tripeptides can boost skin function and reverse damage to the skin. This essentially gives cells back their youth and prevents improper cell communication in the skin. Anti-aging product manufactures claim that tripetides used in these products improve the skin’s appearance, making it smooth and soft.

Tripeptide-3 and tripeptide-1 are the common ingredients used in these products, and are believed to stimulate skin cells and produce more collagen. Due to the fact that tripeptides usually are not cheap to produce, consumers typically can expect to pay larger sums for products with these active ingredients. Common tripetides used in anti-aging products include acetly glutamyl heptapeptide-3, acetyl tetrapeptide-9, and acetyl tetrapeptide-11 and argirline.