Thermodynamically stable ionic liquid microemulsions pioneer pathways for topical delivery and peptide application

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Dermatology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Copper peptides (GHK-Cu) are effective hair growth promoters but face challenges in topical delivery.
• Existing treatments like minoxidil and finasteride have limitations and potential side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel delivery system for enhancing topical copper peptide (GHK-Cu) efficacy for hair growth.
• To investigate the potential of an ionic liquid-based microemulsion (IL-M) for non-invasive hair loss treatment.

Main Methods:

• Utilized theoretical calculations and pseudo-ternary phase diagrams to design a stable ionic liquid-based microemulsion (IL-M).
• Evaluated the enhanced delivery and biological function of GHK-Cu using the IL-M system in mouse models.
• Analyzed the effects of the IL-M system on growth factor expression and signaling pathways involved in hair growth.

Main Results:

• The developed IL-M system improved the local delivery of copper peptides by approximately three-fold.
• The IL-M system maintained the biological function of GHK-Cu and demonstrated effectiveness in promoting hair growth in mice.
• IL-M treatment upregulated vascular endothelial growth factor and activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Conclusions:

• The ionic liquid-based microemulsion (IL-M) offers a safe and effective non-invasive method for topical GHK-Cu delivery.
• This novel system shows significant potential for the clinical treatment of hair loss.
• The study elucidates the mechanism of action involving key growth factors and signaling pathways.