Description
Pal-AHK Peptide
Pal-AHK is also known as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3. It consists of amino acid sequences (alanine-histidine-lysine) and appears to attach to a Palmitoyl fatty acid molecule. The fatty-acid component of AHK makes it soluble in fat, which may increase cell penetration and molecule absorption by skin cells. Scientific research suggests that Pal-AHK may activate the production of fibroblasts by interacting with transforming growth factor-𝛽 (TGF-𝛽).
Specifications
Sequence: Palimitoyl-Ala-His-Lys
Molecular Formula: C31H56N6O5
Molecular Weight: 592.80 g/mol
Synonyms: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3
Pal-AHK Research
Pal-AHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3) General Research
Research on animal models suggests that Pal-AHK may enhance hair follicle growth, support the production of endogenous proteins which typically taper with age, therefore supporting the longevity of organs and skin structure, and may possibly expedite wound healing and tissue repair processes.[1]
Studies on animal models further posit that Pal-AHK may activate the production of fibroblasts that may accelerate the production of proteins within the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the skin. The extracellular matrix dominated by collagen and elastin also has several molecules embedded in it – therefore the increase in the extracellular matrix may result in an increase in collagen and elastin amounts in the skin structure.[2] The researchers note that “it promotes collagen formation via TGF-beta”. This, consequently, improves the strength of the skin barrier and overall skin texture and tone.[3]
Depth experiments suggest that Pal-AHK may play a significant role in the regulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) production. VEGF is a potent signaling molecule in the production of new blood vessels. Research suggests Pal-AHK peptide’s potential to enhance the growth of blood vessels in the skin, with studies reporting improved skin regeneration and hair follicle growth in animal models after exposure to the peptide. The potential ability of Pal-AHK (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3) to activate the production of VEGF may allow for adequate blood supply to the skin, improving skin conditions. VEGF functions may also be seen in diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and macular degeneration. It is an angiogenic factor that regulates angiogenesis by permitting endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and permeability. Thus, the potential ability of Pal-AHK to initiate the enhancement of VEGF production may help in the prevention of the prevalence of diabetes, cancer, and macular generation, as well as the prevention of disease in the cardiovascular system.
Due to the potential ability of Pal-AHK to boost the production of VEGF, wound healing may also be accelerated.[4] The researchers note that “Palmitoyl tripeptide-3 mimics the effects of an extracellular matrix protein, thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), a naturally occurring molecule that increases TGFβ activity. In animal models and human dermal fibroblasts cell culture tests, TSP-1 acts locally to improve wound healing.” This would be possible as a result of the deposition of collagen at the site of injury, angiogenesis, and epithelization. VEGF’s chemotactic, mitogenic, and permeability effects may be strong enough to promote repair and regeneration in non-healing wounds associated with artery occlusive disease and diabetes. Scientific studies suggest that the potential of Pal-AHK to enhance the production of VEGF may also aid in bringing visual improvement to a modest degree, averaging about two lines of vision, though this research reported that few research models used in these studies regained full sight.
Pal-AHK and Wrinkle Depth, Hair Follicle Growth
Pal-AHK research on animal models has suggested profound potential of Pal-AHK on the depth and development of wrinkles in the skin’s surface. AHK is a well-studied potential stimulator of fibroblasts and has been suggested to enhance collagen synthesis in skin cells under laboratory conditions. The addition of Palmitoyl to AHK may enhance AHK activities, which is reported to be evident in skin penetration such as the penetration of cell membrane. This, in turn, may lead to increased levels of collagen synthesis. Further research on animal models suggests that Pal-AHK may reduce and inhibit the prevalence of wrinkling, limit the occurrence of discoloration of the skin, including skin tone and texture.
Research also posits that Pal-AHK may play a role in reducing oxidative stress (free-radical attack) and increasing hair follicle growth by the dermal cells of the papilla. Its proposed ability to reduce oxidative stress may stimulate elevated DHT formation in scalp follicles. AHK complex appears to inhibit oxidative stress by enhancing the production of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), this, in turn, may neutralize the potent free-radical superoxide. The addition of Palmitoyl to the peptide sequence may possibly increase the aforementioned action of AHK.
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
- Lubkowska, Beata & Grobelna, Beata & Maćkiewicz, Zbigniew. (2010). The use of synthetic polypeptides in cosmetics. Copernican Letters. 1. 75. 10.12775/CL.2010.010.
- Gorouhi F, Maibach HI. Role of peptides in preventing or treating aged skin. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2009 Oct;31(5):327-45. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00490.x. Epub 2009 Jun 30. PMID: 19570099.
- Lourith N, Kanlayavattanakul M. Biopolymeric agents for skin wrinkle treatment. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2016 Oct;18(5):301-10. doi: 10.3109/14764172.2016.1157369. Epub 2016 Apr 22. PMID: 26963365.
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