Semaglutide and Blood Sugar Control

Semaglutide has been hypothesized to act by activating the GLP-1 receptors in the pancreatic beta cells, stimulating insulin synthesis and release.^[1][2] The stimulating effect on insulin synthesis is the primary mechanism via which Semaglutide may possibly lower both fasting and postprandial glucose levels. A meta-analysis of 26 RCTs suggests that Semaglutide may lower the fasting blood sugar levels and markers for long-term glucose control, such as HbA1c, in cases of type 2 diabetes.^[3]

In addition to stimulating insulin secretion, Semaglutide may potentially reduce glucagon release and suppress hepatic gluconeogenesis.^[4] These potential actions are supported by study findings in non-diabetic models, which lasted up to 12 weeks and reported over 38% reduction in blood sugar levels compared to a placebo after a carbohydrate-rich food delivery.^[5] The researchers also suggested that Semaglutide may have slowed the speed of gastric emptying during the first hour after caloric intake compared to a placebo. The scientists suggested that this potential of Semaglutide may contribute to a gradual release of glucose and better glycemic control. Yet, the overall speed of gastric emptying over the entire 5-hour monitoring period after the meal appeared not affected.

Semaglutide has been hypothesized to reduce hyperglycemia without causing hypoglycemia. The risk of hypoglycemia is not considered to be higher when compared to a placebo as Semaglutide may possibly stimulate insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner.^[6] In addition, the inhibition of glucagon release may not occur under hypoglycemic conditions.

Semaglutide and Weight

Semaglutide has been suggested to stimulate insulin secretion without leading to weight gain. Studies suggest that Semaglutide may reduce ad libitum energy intake, which may result in weight loss in the long term.^[8] According to one study, Semaglutide reduced hunger hormone signaling to the brain, resulting in a reported 24% reduction in energy intake. Semaglutide may activate the GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which may play a major role in modulating appetite and reward-related behavior.^[9] Furthermore, the potential of Semaglutide to slow down gastric emptying within the first hour of having a meal may also contribute to a reduced ad libitum energy intake.

Pancreatic Beta Cell Survival

Preliminary studies conducted in test animals suggest that Semaglutide may stimulate pancreatic beta cells’ survival and proliferation. These potential actions are considered to be of significant interest since cases of type 2 diabetes are often associated with pancreatic beta cell dysfunction and apoptosis in the long term.^[10]

Animal research suggests that Semaglutide may help reverse the harmful changes of obesity and insulin resistance on pancreatic beta cells and stimulate their proliferation.^[11] Researchers reveal that some studies also report that GLP-1 antagonists, such as Semaglutide, may protect pancreatic beta cells from apoptosis.^[12] Several possible mechanisms are suggested in the protective potential of Semaglutide, and one of the most prominent is reducing the overload on the endoplasmic reticulum of the beta cells in diabetic conditions. GLP-1 receptor activation may also help stimulate autophagy, which prevents beta cell injury and death by protecting against inflammation and oxidative stress.

Semaglutide and Neuroprotection

Interestingly, Parkinson’s disease and type 2 diabetes are considered to share several genetic susceptibilities, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms in the growth factor signaling kinase gene Akt.^[13] This has sparked interest in researching the potential of diabetes compounds for research studies on Parkinson’s disease. Currently, other GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Exendin-4, have already been suggested to exhibit protective effects on Parkinson’s cases.^[14] Another GLP-1 antagonist, Liraglutide, is under investigation for this hypothetical action.^[16]

The research regarding the potential neuroprotective action of Semaglutide is still in its infancy, but many laboratory studies in animal models of PD suggest promising results.^[15] The experiments report that Semaglutide may have neuroprotective characteristics and may increasethe survival of the dopaminergic neurons, the apoptosis of which is associated with the development of Parkinson’s.

In animals, Semaglutide appeared to have alleviated the chronic inflammatory responses in the brain, reduced lipid peroxidation, and increased the expression of growth factors that protect dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and striatum.

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. Dhillon S. Semaglutide: First Global Approval. Drugs. 2018 Feb;78(2):275-284. DOI: 10.1007/s40265-018-0871-0. PMID: 29363040.
2. Hou Y, Ernst SA, Heidenreich K, Williams JA. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor is present in pancreatic acinar cells and regulates amylase secretion through cAMP. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol. 2016 Jan 1;310(1):G26-33. doi: 10.1152/ajpgi.00293.2015. Epub 2015 Nov 5. PMID: 26542397; PMCID: PMC4698438.
3. Zaazouee MS, Hamdallah A, Helmy SK, Hasabo EA, Sayed AK, Gbreel MI, Elmegeed AA, Aladwan H, Elshanbary AA, Abdel-Aziz W, Elshahawy IM, Rabie S, Elkady S, Ali AS, Ragab KM, Nourelden AZ. Semaglutide for the treatment of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of safety and efficacy outcomes. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2022 Jun;16(6):102511. DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2022.102511. Epub 2022 May 20. PMID: 35623229.
4. Mahapatra MK, Karuppasamy M, Sahoo BM. Semaglutide, a glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonist with cardiovascular benefits for management of type 2 diabetes. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2022 Jun;23(3):521-539. DOI: 10.1007/s11154-021-09699-1. Epub 2022 Jan 7. PMID: 34993760; PMCID: PMC8736331.
5. Hjerpsted JB, Flint A, Brooks A, Axelsen MB, Kvist T, Blundell J. Semaglutide improves postprandial glucose and lipid metabolism, and delays first-hour gastric emptying in subjects with obesity. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2018 Mar;20(3):610-619. DOI: 10.1111/dom.13120. Epub 2017 Oct 27. PMID: 28941314; PMCID: PMC5836914.
6. Smits MM, Van Raalte DH. Safety of Semaglutide. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021 Jul 7;12:645563. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2021.645563. Erratum in: Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021 Nov 10;12:786732. PMID: 34305810; PMCID: PMC8294388.
7. Mares AC, Chatterjee S, Mukherjee D. Semaglutide for weight loss and cardiometabolic risk reduction in overweight/obesity. Curr Opin Cardiol. 2022 Jul 1;37(4):350-355. DOI: 10.1097/HCO.0000000000000955. Epub 2022 Feb 16. PMID: 35175229.
8. Blundell J, Finlayson G, Axelsen M, Flint A, Gibbons C, Kvist T, Hjerpsted JB. Effects of once-weekly Semaglutide on appetite, energy intake, control of eating, food preference and body weight in subjects with obesity. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2017 Sep;19(9):1242-1251. DOI: 10.1111/dom.12932. Epub 2017 May 5. PMID: 28266779; PMCID: PMC5573908.
9. van Bloemendaal L, IJzerman RG, Ten Kulve JS, Barkhof F, Konrad RJ, Drent ML, Veltman DJ, Diamant M. GLP-1 receptor activation modulates appetite- and reward-related brain areas in humans. Diabetes. 2014 Dec;63(12):4186-96. DOI: 10.2337/db14-0849. Epub 2014 Jul 28. PMID: 25071023.
10. Tomita T. Apoptosis in pancreatic β-islet cells in Type 2 diabetes. Bosn J Basic Med Sci. 2016 Aug 2;16(3):162-79. DOI: 10.17305/bjbms.2016.919. Epub 2016 May 22. PMID: 27209071; PMCID: PMC4978108.
11. Marinho TS, Martins FF, Cardoso LEM, Aguila MB, Mandarim-de-Lacerda CA. Pancreatic islet cells disarray, apoptosis, and proliferation in obese mice. The role of Semaglutide treatment. Biochimie. 2022 Feb;193:126-136. doi: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.10.017. Epub 2021 Nov 4. PMID: 34742857.
12. Costes S, Bertrand G, Ravier MA. Mechanisms of Beta-Cell Apoptosis in Type 2 Diabetes-Prone Situations and Potential Protection by GLP-1-Based Therapies. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 May 18;22(10):5303. doi: 10.3390/ijms22105303. PMID: 34069914; PMCID: PMC8157542.
13. Xiromerisiou G, Hadjigeorgiou GM, Papadimitriou A, Katsarogiannis E, Gourbali V, Singleton AB. Association between AKT1 gene and Parkinson’s disease: a protective haplotype. Neurosci Lett. 2008 May 9;436(2):232-4. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2008.03.026. Epub 2008 Mar 15. PMID: 18395980; PMCID: PMC8958471.
14. Athauda D, Maclagan K, Skene SS, Bajwa-Joseph M, Letchford D, Chowdhury K, Hibbert S, Budnik N, Zampedri L, Dickson J, Li Y, Aviles-Olmos I, Warner TT, Limousin P, Lees AJ, Greig NH, Tebbs S, Foltynie T. Exenatide once weekly versus placebo in Parkinson’s disease: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet. 2017 Oct 7;390(10103):1664-1675. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(17)31585-4. Epub 2017 Aug 3. PMID: 28781108; PMCID: PMC5831666.
15. Zhang L, Zhang L, Li L, Hölscher C. Semaglutide is Neuroprotective and Reduces α-Synuclein Levels in the Chronic MPTP Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease. J Parkinsons Dis. 2019;9(1):157-171. DOI: 10.3233/JPD-181503. PMID: 30741689.
16. Clinical trial identifier NCT02953665

Vialox peptide has been suggested to interfere with nerve and muscle signal transmission. Signals are transmitted in normal conditions after nerves release acetylcholine from their axons. Contraction may occur after acetylcholine transportation through the neuromuscular junction and binds to a receptor on the muscle.

Vialox peptide may halt contraction by binding to the AChR.^[2] Acetylcholine is prevented from binding due to this action, which may induce less binding and fewer muscle contractions.

At the neuromuscular junction, sodium ion release is constrained due to acetylcholine binding to a muscle receptor. Depolarization occurs, which may cause electrical pulses to develop wrinkling and creasing via the muscle contraction. Vialox may inhibit this process by binding to AChR. Vialox peptide inhibits acetylcholine binding when it binds to AChR.

Vialox peptide has been suggested to only affect peripheral AChRs and may not affect central neuronal receptors. Unlike the other nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists. This process suggests that Vialox only acts on the neuromuscular junction. Vialox peptide may potentially reduce skin texture in research cases by up to 11% and relief by 8%, according to one study. Since wrinkle size and ease are considered to be inversely proportional, Vialox may potentially reduce wrinkle development by an average of 8%. Approximately 60% and 47% of the animal subjects were studied.

Vialox (Pentapeptide-3V), composed of lysine, threonine, and serine, is considered to stimulate collagen production while tightening the skin by acting directly on the dermis. Vialox may potentially boost melanin production, a considered protectant against UV damage.

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. Zhmak, M. N., Utkin, Y. N., Andreeva, T. V., Kudryavtsev, D. S., Kryukova, E. V., Tsetlin, V. I., … & Shelukhina, I. V. E. (2017). U.S. Patent No. 9,550,808. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
2. Reddy, B. Y., Jow, T., & Hantash, B. M. (2012). Bioactive oligopeptides in dermatology: Part II. Experimental dermatology, 21(8), 569-575. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1600-0625.2012.01527.x

Research has suggested that Syn-coll may function similarly to Thrombospondin-1 by stimulating the breakdown of collagen caused by transforming growth factors. A naturally occurring peptide called TSP-1 is considered to promote TGF- activity. Syn-coll peptide is suggested to host the same properties as TSP-1 in increasing Type I and III collagen levels in dermal (skin) fibroblasts. According to experimental results, Syn-coll may raise type I and III collagen levels by 2-3 folds above normal levels(2). Varga et al. further suggest, ‘Our results indicate that TGF beta causes a marked enhancement of the production of types I and III collagens and fibronectin by cultured normal … dermal fibroblasts. The rate of collagen production by fibroblasts exposed to TGF beta was 2-3-fold greater than that of control cells. These effects were associated with a 2-3-fold increase in the steady-state amounts of types I and III collagen mRNAs and a 5-8-fold increase in the amounts of fibronectin mRNAs as determined by dot-blot hybridization with specific cloned cDNA probes. In addition, the increased production of collagen and fibronectin and the increased amounts of their corresponding mRNAs remained elevated for at least 72 h after the removal of TGF beta. These findings suggest that TGF beta may play a major role in the normal regulation of extracellular matrix production in vivo and may contribute to the development of pathological states of fibrosis’ (2) TSP-1 is a protein found in the extracellular matrix (ECM), and it is considered to be found alongside collagen and elastin.

Research regarding Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, like TSP-1, suggests that this peptide may improve wound healing (3). It appears to participate in the development of skin structures. The Syn-coll peptide may inhibits matrix metalloproteinase I and III activity (MMP1 and MMP3). Enzymes that degrade collagen are known as matrix metalloproteinases. These enzymes may be beneficial because they recycle collagen, but appear uncontrollably increased to abnormal levels in conditions such as inflammation. As a result, premature skin damage, lines, and creasing along the skin structure may appear (3).

Syn-coll may potentially support the elimination of toxins and reduce the development and depth of wrinkles on the skin surface. Syn-coll appears to interact with the skin, keeping toxins at bay. This procedure may shield from free radicals.

By possibly inhibiting MMP1 and MMP3 activity, Syn-coll peptide may potentially help to prevent collagen breakdown. These hypotheses suggest that Syn-coll peptide may promote the formation of Type I and Type III collagen while inhibiting collagen breakdown by the enzymes, as mentioned earlier.

Syn-coll, a synthetic peptide component, has been hypothesized to have two primary effects. It appears to increase collagen production by replicating the activation of latent transforming growth factor beta, TGF (Tissue Growth Factor), considered a critical component in collagen synthesis. It appears to protect collagen from breakdown by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). Both activities may work together to keep the skin’s structural integrity intact. Compared to a placebo, Syn-coll peptide may be up to 3.5 times more impactful in wrinkle depth reduction. According to the researchers, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 may be 60% more effective than Palmitoyl Pentapeptide (5).

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. Errante F, Ledwoń P, Latajka R, Rovero P, Papini AM. Cosmeceutical Peptides in the Framework of Sustainable Wellness Economy. Front Chem. 2020 Oct 30;8:572923. doi: 10.3389/fchem.2020.572923.
2. Varga J, Rosenbloom J, Jimenez SA. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) causes a persistent increase in steady-state amounts of type I and type III collagen and fibronectin mRNAs in normal human dermal fibroblasts. Biochem J. 1987 Nov 1;247(3):597-604
3. Resende DISP, Ferreira MS, Sousa-Lobo JM, Sousa E, Almeida IF. Usage of Synthetic Peptides in Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2021 Jul 21;14(8):702. doi: 10.3390/ph14080702.
4. Fadilah NIM, Rahman MBA, Yusof LM, Mustapha NM, Ahmad H. The Therapeutic Effect and In Vivo Assessment of Palmitoyl-GDPH on the Wound Healing Process. Pharmaceutics. 2021 Feb 1;13(2):193. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020193.
5. Bucay VW, Day D. Adjunctive skin care of the brow and periorbital region. Clin Plast Surg. 2013 Jan;40(1):225-36. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2012.09.003
6. Resende DISP, Ferreira MS, Sousa-Lobo JM, Sousa E, Almeida IF. Usage of Synthetic Peptides in Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2021 Jul 21;14(8):702. doi: 10.3390/ph14080702

Potential Function of Pal-GHK Peptide

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 may induce the production of fibroblasts at a rapid rate to replenish and regenerate any lost elastin. The GHK-end is connected to the Pal-end, the fatty acid (Palmitoyl) end of Pal-GHK acts as an intermediary. This transport complex appears to improve skin cell penetration.

Pal-GHK peptide appears to activate genes that may change and reset cells. This may be accomplished by attaching Palmitoyl to the peptide sequence, GHK, which may make it more effective for DNA repair genes and increases the expression of the 14 genes that modulate antioxidant production. Following the genetic changes, the action of cell aging may be reduced, as are radicals and toxic agents that cause the development of certain diseases.

Pal-GHK is a modified form of the extracellular matrix-derived peptide GHK that may potentially permeate the stratum corneum and attain the epidermal and dermal skin layers.

Pal-GHK (0.5 M) may increaase collagen synthesis in skin fibroblasts. It may reduce collagen degradation in skin samples exposed to UVA light when examined at a concentration of 6 ppm.

Scientists suggest that combined with the zwitterionic surfactant C12 dodecyl dimethylamine oxide they may investigate the composite’s identity into aggregates, ribbons, and nanobelts. Pal-GHK peptide as an internal standard helped quantify pal-KTTKS in anti-wrinkle creams using LC-MS/MS.

Scientists believe Pal-GHK peptide may activate age-related DNA repair and certain genes. According to new research, the peptide may potentially influence follicle regeneration.

Pal-GHK Peptide and Wrinkles

Pal-GHK may protect the extracellular matrix from certain cell aging consequences, according to scientific data^[4]. Shagen et al report that “In a study … leading to statistically significant reductions in wrinkle length, depth and skin roughness. Another study applied both vehicle and palmitoyl tripeptide-1 to the skin … documenting a small but statistically significant increase in skin thickness (~4%, compared to the vehicle alone)The peptide accomplishes this by increasing the production of elastin and collagen.”

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 may replenish the skin’s extracellular matrix, reducing wrinkles, smoother skin, and less uneven skin. At the same time, it may protect collagen from degradation caused by Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays. Pal-GHK peptide may be examined solely or combinatorally with Palmitoyl tetrapeptide – Z.

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. Ferreira, M. S., Magalhães, M. C., Sousa-Lobo, J. M., & Almeida, I. F. (2020). Trending anti-aging peptides. Cosmetics, 7(4), 91.
2. Gorouhi, F., & Maibach, H. I. (2009). Role of peptides in preventing or treating aged skin. International journal of cosmetic science, 31(5), 327-345.
3. Park, S. I., An, G. M., Kim, M. G., Heo, S. H., & Shin, M. S. (2020). Enhancement of Skin Permeation of Anti-wrinkle Peptide GHKs Using Cell Penetrating Peptides. Korean Chemical Engineering Research, 58(1), 29-35. https://doi.org/10.9713/KCER.2020.58.1.29

According to scientific data, TB-500 is a synthetic peptide with wound healing and anti-inflammatory potential.^[2] This peptide differs from others in that it appears to promote keratinocyte and endothelial migration. It has a low molecular weight and does not appear to bind to the extracellular matrix, implying that it may potentially travel long distances through tissues. The most important mechanism of action of the TB-500 peptide is its potential to modulate actin activity.

TB-500 Peptide Research

TB-500 peptide may be concentrated at injury sites, where it may improve wound healing and repair in the brain, spinal cord, skin, heart, bones, and organs.^[4]

When released from platelets, TB-500 peptide may play a potential cellular role in immune regulation and inflammation. As a result, TB-500 peptide may increase B cells, which regulate antibody activation. It may increase Actin levels to promote tissue repair after injury and potentially stimulate T cell synthesis to improve immune system function.^[5]

TB-500 and Blood Clots: TB-500 peptide may be a vital ancillary in mitigating blood clots and might regulate the formation of blood vessels.

TB-500 and Soft Tissue Damage: The potential of TB-500 peptide to promote angiogenesis and reduce inflammation may result in muscle, ligament, and tendon recovery.

TB-500 and Muscular Function: TB-500 peptide may potentially increase the rate of muscle repair and growth rate, including regulating muscle spasms.

TB-500 and Neurological and Cardiovascular Damage: TB-500 peptide may potentially promote angiogenesis, including neuron formation and better brain axonal density.

TB-500 and Matrix Metalloproteinase Expression in Tissue Repair: Wound healing impairment is common in diabetic cases of immobility. According to research, TB-500 peptide may potentially improve dermal wound repair in rats, dB/dB diabetic mice, and aged mice.^[6] Philip et al. concluded “that thymosin β4 is active for wound repair in models of impaired healing and may have efficacy in chronic wounds.” In normal rats and mice, the peptide appears to potentially promote corneal repair. TB-500 may regulate matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression in wound repair cells. RT-PCR analysis of whole excised mouse dermal wounds on days 1, 2, and 3 after injury suggested that TB-500 peptide increased the expression of several metalloproteinases, including MMP-2 and -9, by several folds on days two after wounding. The metalloproteinases secreted by activated monocytes in response to exogenous TB-500 in the wound were also studied. They suggested that the peptide increased MMP-1 and MMP-9 levels.

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. Ho, E. N., Kwok, W. H., Lau, M. Y., Wong, A. S., Wan, T. S., Lam, K. K., Schiff, P. J., & Stewart, B. D. (2012). Doping control analysis of TB-500 peptide, a synthetic version of an active region of thymosin β₄, in equine urine and plasma by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Journal of chromatography. A, 1265, 57–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chroma.2012.09.043
2. Grant, D. S., Rose, W., Yaen, C., Goldstein, A., Martinez, J., & Kleinman, H. (1999). Thymosin beta4 enhances endothelial cell differentiation and angiogenesis. Angiogenesis, 3(2), 125–135. https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1009041911493
3. Malinda, K. M., Sidhu, G. S., Mani, H., Banaudha, K., Maheshwari, R. K., Goldstein, A. L., & Kleinman, H. K. (1999). Thymosin beta4 accelerates wound healing. The Journal of investigative dermatology, 113(3), 364–368. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1523-1747.1999.00708.x
4. Goldstein, A. L., Hannappel, E., & Kleinman, H. K. (2005). Thymosin β4: actin-sequestering protein moonlights to repair injured tissues. Trends in molecular medicine, 11(9), 421-429.
5. Huff, T., Otto, A. M., Müller, C. S., Meier, M., & Hannappel, E. (2002). Thymosin β4 is released from human blood platelets and attached by factor XIIIa (transglutaminase) to fibrin and collagen. The FASEB journal, 16(7), 691-696.
6. Philp, D., Badamchian, M., Scheremeta, B., Nguyen, M., Goldstein, A. L., & Kleinman, H. K. (2003). Thymosin β4 and a synthetic peptide containing its actin‐binding domain promote dermal wound repair in db/db diabetic mice and in aged mice. Wound repair and regeneration, 11(1), 19-24.

PTD-DBM Peptide Overview

CXXC5 appears to act as a reversible modulator on the Wnt/-catenin nerve tract, which is involved in wound healing and hair regrowth. It is known as “the hair loss catalytic enzyme”. CXXC5 forms a bond with the Dvl protein, which may inhibit hair regeneration and follicle development. PTD-DBM has been hypothesized to prevent CXXC5 from binding to the disheveled protein. It may act as a negative modulator of the entire process.^[1] If PTD-DBM prevents CXXC5 from becoming a disheveled protein, the Wnt/-catenin pathway may be activated, inducing hair follicle regrowth and wound-induced hair follicle neogenesis. PTD-DBM is suggested to inhibit the activities of enzymes and hormones that shrink follicles, gradually restoring the strands at the stem cell level. PTD-DBM peptide may prevent follicle volume loss while stimulating the formation of new cavities for follicle growth.

PTD-DBM and Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic Alopecia is characterized by the regression of follicle loss in the vertex. It may progress and induce total follicle loss. The anagen, catagen, and telogen phase are the three stages of follicle growth. The anagen phase may be shortened due to androgen hypersecretion, specifically testosterone. It may induce follicle growth to thin and shed, and the anagen phase may last only a few months.

The most crucial cellular pathway that is considered to regulate follicle growth is the Wnt/-catenin pathway. Wnt proteins are released, which may bind to the LDL-related protein LRP, deactivating glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3). GSK-3 appears to inhibit -catenin’s actions in the hair follicle.

According to Professor Kang-Yell Choi’s research, CXXC-type zinc finger protein 5 (CXXC5) may be expressed aggressively in cases of Alopecia.^[3] CXXC5 appear to inhibit the Wnt/-catenin signaling pathway. CXXC5 may accomplish this by binding to the Dvl protein, hindering the growth and development of both new and existing follicles.

By inhibiting the actions of CXXC5 and Dvl protein, PTD-DBM may potentially reduce the prevalence of androgenetic alopecia, resulting in increased follicle growth and the anagen phase of the growth cycle. PTD-DBM potential actions may result in positive impact; when the peptide is in symbiosis with valproic acid, its potency has been suggested to increase.

PTD-DBM and Tissue Repair

The Wnt/-catenin signaling pathway is considered to be essential for wound healing and skin break fibrosis. The CXXC5 may regulate it via a negative feedback mechanism. The CXXC5 appears to bind to the Disheveled (Dvl) protein, inhibiting the Wnt/-catenin signaling pathway. Inhibiting CXXC5 activities in mice appears to promote wound healing by stimulating collagen and keratin synthesis, specifically skin wound healing.^[2] Furthermore, PTD-DBM has been suggested to inhibit the CXXC5-Dvl domain’s actions by preventing protein-to-protein interactions between CXXC5 and Dvl proteins. As a result, the Wnt/-catenin pathway may become more active, inducing collagen and keratin synthesis and increased dermal fibrosis.

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. Lee, S. H., Seo, S. H., Lee, D. H., Pi, L. Q., Lee, W. S., & Choi, K. Y. (2017). Targeting of CXXC5 by a Competing Peptide Stimulates Hair Regrowth and Wound-Induced Hair Neogenesis. The Journal of investigative dermatology, 137(11), 2260–2269. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jid.2017.04.038
2. Lee SH, Kim MY, Kim HY, Lee YM, Kim H, Nam KA, Roh MR, Min do S, Chung KY, Choi KY. The Dishevelled-binding protein CXXC5 negatively regulates cutaneous wound healing. J Exp Med. 2015 Jun 29;212(7):1061-80. doi: 10.1084/jem.20141601. Epub 2015 Jun 8. PMID: 26056233; PMCID: PMC4493411.
3. Ryu YC, Lee DH, Shim J, Park J, Kim YR, Choi S, Bak SS, Sung YK, Lee SH, Choi KY. KY19382, a novel activator of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, promotes hair regrowth and hair follicle neogenesis. Br J Pharmacol. 2021 Jun;178(12):2533-2546. doi: 10.1111/bph.15438. Epub 2021 May 5. PMID: 33751552; PMCID: PMC8251890.
4. Rahman M, Nguyen H. Valproic Acid. [Updated 2022 Jul 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559112/