Nonapeptide-1 vs FOXO4-DRI
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & Cosmetic
Nonapeptide-1Anti-Aging & Longevity
FOXO4-DRI- Summary
- Nonapeptide-1 is a synthetic 9-amino acid peptide that inhibits melanin production by blocking α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone) receptor binding. Used in cosmetic formulations for skin lightening and evening skin tone, it is particularly effective for UV-induced and hormonal hyperpigmentation.
- FOXO4-DRI is a D-retro-inverso peptide derived from the FOXO4 protein that selectively induces apoptosis in senescent cells. By disrupting the FOXO4-p53 interaction that keeps senescent cells alive, it triggers programmed cell death specifically in these aging, pro-inflammatory cells while sparing healthy tissue.
- Half-Life
- Not applicable (topical)
- Estimated 2-4 hours (D-amino acid confers resistance to proteolysis)
- Admin Route
- Topical
- Subcutaneous, Intraperitoneal (research)
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.05–0.5% concentration in formulation
- 5 mg/kg in rodent studies; human equivalent approximately 0.5-1 mg/kg
- Frequency
- Twice daily
- 3 consecutive days per cycle
- Key Benefits
- Inhibits UV-induced tanning and hyperpigmentation
- Reduces hormonal melasma
- Evens skin tone at receptor level
- Well-tolerated with minimal irritation
- Complementary to tyrosinase inhibitors for enhanced brightening
- Reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Selectively clears senescent cells (senolytics)
- Reduces senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and chronic inflammation
- Demonstrated restoration of physical fitness in aged mice
- May improve healthspan and reduce age-related tissue dysfunction
- Potential for treatment of age-related pathologies driven by cellular senescence
- Does not affect healthy non-senescent cells at therapeutic doses
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare contact sensitivity in susceptible individuals
- Theoretical risk of excessive depigmentation with prolonged high-concentration use
- Limited human data; largely preclinical evidence
- Possible temporary inflammatory response as senescent cells are cleared (senolytic effect)
- Weight loss observed at high doses in rodent studies
- Unknown long-term safety profile in humans
- Stacks With
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