Cartalax is a synthetic linear tripeptide, H-Ala-Glu-Asp-OH (AED), with free amino and carboxyl termini. It belongs to the series of ultrashort regulatory peptides developed in the Khavinson peptide-bioregulator research program, a family of di- to tetrapeptides whose sequences were derived from analyses of tissue-derived polypeptide extracts.

Short peptides of this series have been proposed to enter the cell nucleus and interact with histone proteins and DNA, a model the originating group links to changes in gene expression. In cultured human skin fibroblasts, AED has been reported to increase expression of sirtuin-1, sirtuin-6 and type I collagen, and it has been included in peptide panels examined for effects on neuronal differentiation markers in periodontal ligament stem cells.

Research citing AED falls mainly within peptide-regulation and epigenetics studies, replicative-senescence models in fibroblast culture, stem-cell differentiation assays, and gene-expression profiling. Most published work originates from a single research group, and independent replication is limited. With two carboxylic acid side chains and free termini, the tripeptide is highly polar.

Research use only. This material is sold for in-vitro laboratory research and development purposes exclusively. It is not a drug, food, or dietary supplement, has not been evaluated by the FDA, and must not be used in humans or animals.