The effect of tripeptide-copper complex on human hair growth in vitro

Abstract

The tripeptide-copper complex, described as a growth factor for various kinds of differentiated cells, stimulates the proliferation of dermal fibroblasts and elevates the production of vascular endothelial growth factor, but decreased the secretion of transforming growth factor-beta1 by dermal fibroblasts. Dermal papilla cells (DPCs) are specialized fibroblasts, which are important in the morphogenesis and growth of hair follicles. In the present study, the effects of L-alanyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ (AHK-Cu) on human hair growth ex vivo and cultured dermal papilla cells were evaluated. AHK-Cu (10(-12) - 10(-9) M) stimulated the elongation of human hair follicles ex vivo and the proliferation of DPCs in vitro. Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide labeling and flow cytometric analysis showed that 10(-9) M AHK-Cu reduced the number of apoptotic DPCs, but this decrease was not statistically significant. The ratio of Bcl-2/Bax was elevated, and the levels of the cleaved forms of caspase-3 and PARP were reduced by treatment with 10(-9) M AHK-Cu. The present study proposed that AHK-Cu promotes the growth of human hair follicles, and this stimulatory effect may occur due to stimulation of the proliferation and the preclusion of the apoptosis of DPCs.

Analysis of Serum Zinc and Copper Concentrations in Hair Loss

“…It also plays an important functional role in hair follicle cycling2. A recent study revealed that copper plays a crucial role in the differentiation and proliferation of dermal papilla cells, which are specialized fibroblasts that play an important role in the development of hair follicles10. Even though zinc and copper are theoretically considered to play certain roles in the pathogenesis of hair loss, clinical research has shown opposing views on the relationship.…”

Androgenetic alopecia: An update

“…In vitro studies have demonstrated good results with copper peptides, but at present there is no real scientific evidence to support the same. [93] CONCLUSION CONCLUSION Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is one of the commonest dermatological complaints for which patients seek treatment. AGA can be a source of significant psychological distress to the affected patient.…”

What ages hair?

“…While the anti-DHT properties has not been proven to help pattern hair loss, nevertheless the association of ketoconazole may contribute to a healthier scalp. Copper peptide is compounded in some hair products and scientific evidence suggests its beneficial effects on hair growth through stimulation of human dermal papilla cells (Pyo et al, 2007), and as a potent activator of both telogen and anagen follicles in mice (Trachy et al, 1991). …”