sh-Oligopeptide-5 (rh-Oligopeptide-7) is a synthetic recombinant peptide corresponding to the N-terminal fragment (41 amino acid length) of human AIMP1 (ARS-interacting multi-functional protein 1). It is a synthetic analog of a human peptide (the "sh" prefix means synthetic human and "rh" means recombinant human) that mimics the action of endogenous AIMP1 protein.
AIMP1 has shown biological activity in stimulating human dermal fibroblast cell growth, collagen synthesis, and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) production, which is a key growth factor for keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation. Stimulating fibroblasts, sh-Oligopeptide-5 enhances collagen production, improving skin firmness, smoothness, and elasticity.
In addition, it promotes the release of KGF, enhancing the renewal rate of skin cells and the desquamation of pigmented keratinocytes (cells that contain melanin pigment), brightening skin tone and revealing a radiant complexion.
Novel studies showed that the active N-terminal peptide fragment of AIMP1 secreted from Wnt-treated hair follicle stem cells generated by the MMP1 enzyme increases β-catenin and activates dermal papilla cells. In vivo tests on cultured dermal papilla cells, spheroids, and human hair follicles showed that sh-Oligopeptide-5 improves the hair-inducing activity and promotes hair shaft elongation. These findings suggest that this recombinant peptide may be a potential hair growth stimulator and a treatment for alopecia.
