PTD-DBM (Hair Growth Peptide) Peptide
Novel cell-penetrating peptide that activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in hair follicle dermal papilla cells. Preclinical studies demonstrate hair regrowth comparable to minoxidil without systemic effects. Key compound in hair loss and follicular regeneration research.
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Quick Facts
| SKU | AC-PTDDBM |
|---|---|
| Purity | Research Grade |
| Physical Form | Topical Solution |
| Storage | Store at 2-8°C |
What is PTD-DBM?
PTD-DBM is a novel cell-penetrating peptide designed to activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway specifically in hair follicle dermal papilla cells. The peptide consists of a protein transduction domain (PTD) linked to a dishevelled-binding motif (DBM) that disrupts the CXXC5-Dishevelled interaction — a key negative regulator of Wnt signaling in hair follicles.
In preclinical studies (Choi et al., 2017, J Invest Dermatol), topical PTD-DBM application promoted new hair follicle neogenesis and accelerated hair regrowth at rates comparable to minoxidil, but through a completely different mechanism: direct Wnt pathway activation rather than vasodilation. This makes PTD-DBM one of the most promising peptide-based approaches to hair loss research.
Mechanism of Action
Wnt/β-Catenin Activation: PTD-DBM blocks the CXXC5-Dishevelled protein interaction. CXXC5 normally acts as a brake on Wnt signaling in dermal papilla cells. By removing this brake, PTD-DBM allows β-catenin to accumulate, translocate to the nucleus, and activate hair follicle stem cell proliferation genes.
Hair Follicle Neogenesis: Unlike minoxidil (which merely extends the anagen phase of existing follicles), PTD-DBM research suggests it can stimulate de novo hair follicle formation — creating new follicles from dermal papilla stem cell populations. This is a fundamentally different and potentially more powerful approach.
Topical Delivery: The PTD (protein transduction domain) enables transcutaneous delivery without injection. The peptide penetrates the epidermis and reaches the dermal papilla at the base of the follicle.
Chemical Properties
| Type | Cell-penetrating peptide (PTD + DBM domains) |
|---|---|
| Target | CXXC5-Dishevelled interaction (Wnt pathway negative regulator) |
| Pathway | Wnt/β-catenin → hair follicle stem cell activation |
| Route | Topical (transcutaneous via PTD domain) |
| Comparison | Comparable efficacy to minoxidil in preclinical models |
| Advantage | New follicle formation (neogenesis) vs just extending anagen phase |
| Availability | Coming Soon |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does PTD-DBM compare to minoxidil?
Different mechanisms: minoxidil is a vasodilator that extends anagen phase of existing follicles. PTD-DBM activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling to stimulate new follicle formation (neogenesis). PTD-DBM may create new follicles; minoxidil only maintains existing ones.
Can PTD-DBM be applied topically?
Yes, the PTD (protein transduction domain) enables transcutaneous delivery. The peptide penetrates the epidermal barrier and reaches dermal papilla cells at the follicle base without injection.
What is Wnt/β-catenin signaling in hair growth?
Wnt/β-catenin is the master pathway controlling hair follicle development, cycling, and regeneration. When active, it promotes anagen (growth phase) entry and dermal papilla cell proliferation. Most forms of hair loss involve insufficient Wnt signaling.
For laboratory and research use only. Not intended for human or animal consumption. All product information is derived from published preclinical research and does not constitute medical advice or claims.