Larazotide 20mg – Research Peptide
Larazotide Acetate – Intestinal Barrier and Tight Junction Research Peptide
Overview
Larazotide acetate (AT-1001) is a synthetic 8-amino-acid peptide (sequence: Gly-Gly-Val-Leu-Val-Gln-Pro-Gly; GGVLVQPG) investigated in research models of intestinal barrier regulation and epithelial tight junction dynamics.
It is commonly referenced in studies examining zonulin-associated signaling pathways and the molecular mechanisms that influence paracellular permeability within the intestinal epithelium.
Unlike many systemically active peptides, larazotide is designed to act primarily within the intestinal lumen, where it interacts locally with epithelial barrier signaling processes.
Molecular Mechanism of Action
Larazotide is studied as a competitive antagonist of the zonulin signaling pathway, a regulatory system involved in the modulation of epithelial tight junction permeability.
Zonulin-Associated Signaling Cascade
In experimental models, intestinal permeability can increase when zonulin is released by enterocytes in response to environmental triggers such as microbial products, inflammatory cytokines, or certain dietary peptides.
The pathway proceeds through several steps:
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Zonulin release
Certain luminal stimuli activate CXCR3-MyD88 signaling in enterocytes, leading to secretion of zonulin (prehaptoglobin-2) into the intestinal lumen.
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Receptor interaction
Zonulin binds to receptors on the apical membrane of enterocytes, particularly protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR2), which can subsequently transactivate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).
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Intracellular signaling activation
This interaction activates phospholipase C (PLC), leading to:
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IP3 and DAG signaling
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intracellular Ca²⁺ mobilization
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activation of protein kinase Cα (PKCα)
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Cytoskeletal remodeling
Downstream signaling promotes:
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phosphorylation of myosin light chain (MLC) via MLCK/ROCK pathways
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contraction of the perijunctional actomyosin ring
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Tight junction rearrangement
This process can result in redistribution of key tight junction proteins including:
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ZO-1
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occludin
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claudins
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E-cadherin
The resulting structural changes may increase paracellular permeability, allowing macromolecules or luminal antigens to pass across the epithelial barrier.
Findings from Cellular and Experimental Models
In commonly used epithelial cell models (including Caco-2, MDCK, IEC-6, and intestinal organoids), larazotide exposure has been associated with measurable changes in barrier function indicators:
• Increased transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER)
• Reduced paracellular flux of macromolecules (e.g., FITC-dextran)
• Preservation of tight junction protein localization during inflammatory or stress conditions
These findings have positioned larazotide as a compound frequently used in laboratory studies exploring:
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intestinal permeability regulation
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epithelial barrier dynamics
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immune-epithelial interaction at mucosal surfaces
Research Context: Gut Barrier and Immune Signaling
Barrier integrity of the intestinal epithelium is increasingly studied as an important interface between microbial exposure, immune signaling, and systemic inflammatory pathways.
Experimental literature has explored whether modulation of epithelial permeability may influence:
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microbial antigen translocation
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cytokine signaling
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immune cell trafficking from the intestinal environment
Animal studies investigating autoimmune and inflammatory models have reported that restoration of epithelial barrier integrity can influence systemic immune responses, including modulation of T-cell populations and inflammatory signaling pathways.
Larazotide has therefore been examined in research settings focused on gut-immune axis interactions and epithelial barrier regulation.
Clinical Development Context
Larazotide acetate has been investigated in multiple clinical research programs examining intestinal permeability modulation.
Clinical trials have primarily explored larazotide in contexts involving:
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epithelial barrier dysfunction
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gluten-triggered permeability responses
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inflammatory intestinal environments
Across published studies, larazotide has demonstrated a favorable safety profile and localized mechanism of action, consistent with its design as a gut-restricted peptide.
The compound remains investigational and under ongoing study in several research programs examining epithelial barrier biology.
Molecular Characteristics
Synonyms: Larazotide acetate, AT-1001
Peptide Sequence: Gly-Gly-Val-Leu-Val-Gln-Pro-Gly (GGVLVQPG)
Molecular Formula: C₃₂H₅₅N₉O₁₀
Molecular Weight: ~725.8 g/mol
CAS: 258818-34-7
Structures:

Product Usage
In vitro research or further manufacturing use only. Not for human or animal use.
Peptide Storage
All information provided by PRG is for educational and informational purposes only.
Best Practices for Storing Peptides
To maintain the reliability of laboratory results, correct peptide storage is essential. Proper storage conditions help preserve peptide stability for years while protecting against contamination, oxidation, and breakdown. Although certain peptides are more sensitive than others, following these best practices will greatly extend their shelf life and structural integrity.
- Short-Term Storage (days to months): Keep peptides cool and protected from light. Temperatures below 4 °C (39 °F) are generally suitable. Lyophilized peptides often remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, but refrigeration is still preferred if use is not immediate.
- Long-Term Storage (months to years): Store peptides at –80 °C (–112 °F) for maximum stability. Avoid frost-free freezers, as defrost cycles can cause damaging temperature fluctuations.
- Minimize Freeze–Thaw Cycles: Repeated freezing and thawing accelerates degradation. Instead, divide peptides into aliquots before freezing.
Preventing Oxidation & Moisture Damage
Peptides can be compromised by exposure to moisture and air—especially immediately after removal from a freezer.
- Let the vial warm to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation.
- Keep containers sealed as much as possible, and if possible, reseal under a dry, inert gas such as nitrogen or argon.
- Amino acids like cysteine (C), methionine (M), and tryptophan (W) are particularly sensitive to oxidation.
Storing Peptides in Solution
Peptides in solution have a much shorter lifespan compared to lyophilized form and are prone to bacterial degradation.
- If storage in solution is unavoidable, use sterile buffers at pH 5–6.
- Prepare single-use aliquots to avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.
- Most peptide solutions are stable for up to 30 days at 4 °C (39 °F), but sensitive sequences should remain frozen when not in use.
Containers for Peptide Storage
Select containers that are clean, intact, chemically resistant, and appropriately sized for the sample.
- Glass vials: offer clarity, durability, and chemical resistance.
- Plastic vials: polystyrene (clear but less resistant) or polypropylene (translucent but chemically resistant).
- Peptides shipped in plastic vials may be transferred to glass for long-term storage if desired.
Regenesis Peptide Storage Quick Tips
- Keep peptides in a cold, dry, dark environment
- Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles
- Minimize exposure to air
- Protect from light
- Avoid storing in solution long term
- Aliquot peptides to match experimental needs