DermaPep™ WrinCare is a peptide-based complex with a rejuvenating, anti-aging effect. It is a blend of TGFβ-mimetic and MMP-1-inhibitory tetrapeptides. According to the manufacturers' claims, it effectively boosts procollagen production and strongly inhibits MMPs, collagen-degrading enzymes, under both normal and UV-irradiated conditions.
Collagen is the main structural component of the skin's extracellular matrix (ECM), and its quantity declines with aging. The decline is not only due to reduced production but also to increased degradation. The enzymes called MMPs are mainly responsible for the degradation of collagen and other ECM components, and for reducing new collagen formation in the skin.
Transforming growth factor (TGF-β), a member of a large family of secreted peptide growth factors, plays a prominent role in ECM (extracellular matrix) accumulation by increasing the expression of ECM genes, such as collagen, elastin, fibronectin, and proteoglycans.
In vitro studies show that procollagen production is mediated by TGF-beta signaling via Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-6, and that Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-34 inhibits MMP-1 via the AP-1 deactivation pathway.These two peptides exhibit additional effects on human skin aging when used together. The clinical study also shows that each peptide significantly reduces wrinkles.
