Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1: A Promising Anti-Oxidative & Skin Modulating Peptide

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, aka Pal-GHK or Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, has shown promise as a potent antioxidant and skin-modulating peptide. According to studies it may increase moisture content, prevents crow’s feet, and modulates transepidermal water loss. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 can influence skin , collagen synthesis, and skin pigmentation. The peptide is under active review for its effects on the increase and activation of collagen synthesis and blood vessel growth.

Pal-GHK is a hybrid peptide comprising a peptide and a fatty acid end. The peptide end is the GHK-end (Glycine, histidine, and lysine). Meanwhile, the fatty acid end is the Pal-end (Palmitoyl). Pal-GHK is a fibroblast stimulant and a small fraction of the elastin protein. It may enhance the synthesis of elastin, collagen, and other extracellular matrix protein in the connective tissues, bone, and skin.^[1]

The Potential Functions of Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

The robust functions of Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 are as follows:

• The peptide (GHK) component of the Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 peptide subjects’ fibroblasts into perceiving that elastin—one of the most abundant proteins in the body—is damaged. As a result, the body rapidly produces and multiplies fibroblasts to replenish and regenerate the lost elastin.
• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 may also reverse some aging on the skin and re-energize fibroblasts.
• The fatty acid (Palmitoyl) end of Pal-GHK serves as an intermediary, a transport complex that performs an excellent job when the GHK-end is attached to the Pal-end, resulting in enhanced skin and cell penetration.
• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 stimulates genes that can alter and reset cells to a younger and healthier look and state. This is possible by attaching Palmitoyl to the peptide sequence, GHK, which makes it overly effective for DNA repair genes and increases expression of the 14 genes that modulate antioxidant production.^[2] The researchers also note that “The Broad Institute’s Connectivity Map indicated that GHK induces a 50% or greater change of expression in 31.2% of human genes.” After the genetic changes, reduced effects of aging and removing radicals and toxic agents that induce the development of age-related diseases can be attained.
• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 can aid in rapid wound healing by enhancing the production of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) at injury sites. The peptide can also repair nerves and induces the growth of new nerves. Furthermore, Pal-GHK betters the actions of genes responsible for wound healing; it activates DNA repair genes and suppresses the genes that may aid cancer growth.
• Scientists believe Pal-GHK can activate DNA repair and healing genes that were silent due to aging. Recent research suggests that the peptide can modulate the regeneration of lost hair.

How Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 May Reduce Wrinkles and Strengthen Skin

• Scientific research has shown promise that Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 can protect the skin from aging effects. The peptide does this by enhancing elastin and collagen production. A decline in the levels of these proteins is the main reason for the appearance of signs of aging.
• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 replenishes the skin’s extracellular matrix, causing wrinkle reduction and alleviation. At the same time, it prevents collagen degradation following exposure to Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays.
• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 functions to restore lip fullness and moisture. Pal-GHK can act alongside other peptides to decrease the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.^[3] The scientists reveal that “Self-assessment questionnaires showed a 97-percent overall satisfaction rating.” Furthermore, the peptide reduces redness and skin discoloration caused by photodamage (Melasma).^[4]

Disclaimer: The products mentioned are not intended for human or animal consumption. Research chemicals are intended solely for laboratory experimentation and/or in-vitro testing. Bodily introduction of any sort is strictly prohibited by law. All purchases are limited to licensed researchers and/or qualified professionals. All information shared in this article is for educational purposes only.

References

1. Goldsberry, S. & Garcines, L. Anti-aging cosmeceutical composition. (2013).
2. Pickart, L., Vasquez-Soltero, J. M. & Margolina, A. GHK-Cu may Prevent Oxidative Stress in Skin by Regulating Copper and Modifying Expression of Numerous Antioxidant Genes. Cosmetics 2, 236–247 (2015). doi: 10.3390/cosmetics2030236
3. Trookman, N. S., Rizer, R. L., Ford, R., Mehta, R. & Gotz, V. Clinical assessment of a combination lip treatment to restore moisturization and fullness. J. Clin. Aesthetic Dermatol. 2, 44–48 (2009).
4. Dupont, E. et al. Clinical efficacy of a serum integrating multiple cosmetic ingredients in the management of erythema of the face in aging skin. J. Cosmet. Dermatol. 11, 207–212 (2012).
5. Bradley, E. J., Griffiths, C. E. M., Sherratt, M. J., Bell, M. & Watson, R. E. B. Over-the-counter anti-ageing topical agents and their ability to protect and repair photoaged skin. Maturitas 80, 265–272 (2015).