Fiber protection agent, compositions and uses thereof

EP4646184A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-11-12SOLFARCOS SOLUÇÕES FARMACEUTICAS E COSMETICAS LDA
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Patent Information

Application Number
EP2024703858
Authority / Receiving Office
EP · EP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-01-05
Filing Date
2024-01-05
Publication Date
2025-11-12

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Abstract

The present disclosure relates to fiber protection effects conferred by odorant-binding proteins (OBP) and / or modified odorant-binding proteins. The application of OBP proteins directly or into cosmetic composition increase the heat protection and mechanical resilience of biological fibers, including hair, nails, skin, and other healthcare treatments; namely the resistance of hair fibre to heat treatments and mechanical stress. These proteins can be used into formulations / compositions for cosmetic, hair care composition, nail, skin and healthcare treatments.
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Description

D E S C R I P T I O NFIBER PROTECTION AGENT, COMPOSITIONS AND USES THEREOFTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to fiber protection effects conferred by odorantbinding proteins (OBP) and / or modified odorant-binding proteins. The application of OBP proteins directly or into cosmetic composition increase the heat protection and mechanical resilience of biological fibers, including hair, nails, skin, and other healthcare treatments; namely the resistance of hair fibre to heat treatments and mechanical stress. These proteins can be used into formulations / compositions for cosmetic, hair care composition, nail, skin and healthcare treatments.BACKGROUND

[0002] Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) are small water-soluble proteins belonging to the lipocalins superfamily. The function of these proteins, in nature, is to transport hydrophobic odorant molecules across the aqueous mucus barrier towards the olfactory receptors, where a cascade of signals is sent to the brain.

[0003] Several mammalian odorant-binding proteins have been isolated and identified from nasal mucus of, for example, bovine, pig, boar, panda, mice, rat and human.

[0004] DNA sequences of mammalian OBPs present low similarity. For example, porcine OBP (OBP-I) and human OBP (hOBPIIa) present only 13.9% of DNA sequence similarity; OBP-I and bovine OBP present 42.7%. Despite low similarity, mammalian OBPs still shares a few common characteristics such as conserved tertiary structure, having a p-barrel structure composed by eight |3-strands linked by seven loops, connected to a short a-helix close to the C-terminus, and a ninth -strand followed by the disordered C-terminal tail. The structure of OBPs is highly stable and resistant to degradation by temperature, organic solvents, pH variation, or proteolytic digestion. The FT-IR spectra for porcine OBP revealed a structure stable at temperatures up to 80 °C, particularly in the presence of a ligand. Furthermore, vertebrate OBPs has the capacity to reverse the unfolding of protein even after denaturation.

[0005] Filipa Goncalves et al (2018) "Two Engineered OBPs with opposite temperaturedependent affinities towards 1-aminoanthracene" mentions two recombinant proteins based on pig OBP sequence (i) truncated OBP (tOBP-F44A / F66A) obtained from the deletion of the first 16 residues of the N-terminal and the replacement of two phenylalanine residues at the binding pocket by alanine residues (F44A and F66A), and (ii) OBP::GQ2O::SP-DS3 resulted from the fusion of OBP-I with a spacer of 20 repetitions of glycine-glutamine residues and the anchor peptide SP-DS3. Experimental and molecular modelling data showed that 1-AMA model ligand binds preferentially to tOBP-F44A / F66A at 25 °C while ligand binds to OBP::GQ2o::SP-DS3 favourably at 37 °C.

[0006] Filipa Goncalves et al (2018) "OBP fused with cell-penetrating peptides promotes liposomal transduction" discloses the fusion of porcine OBP with cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs, e.g. TAT, Pep-1 and pVEC). The study revealed different efficiencies on 1-AMA transduction into liposomes.

[0007] Filipa Goncalves et al (2018) "1-Aminoanthracene Transduction into Liposomes Driven by Odorant-Binding Protein Proximity" discloses the design of two fusion proteins based on pig OBP fused with anchor peptide SP-DS3 in the absence or presence of a spacer (GQ20). This work demonstrated that the 1-AMA transduction into liposomes is driven by proximity of protein anchored to liposomal membrane (advantage of absence of spacer).

[0008] Filipa Goncalves et al (2019) "Release of Fragrances from Cotton Functionalized with Carbohydrate-Binding Module Proteins" discloses the design of fusion protein based on pig OBP fused with a spacer (GQ20) and a carbohydrate binding module (CBM). The work demonstrated the affinity of protein to one fragrance (P-citronellol) and the release of this fragrance from cotton in the presence of sweat. Regardless, the release capacity of this fusion protein in the presence of sweat is inferior as compared to the native OBP.

[0009] Alessandro Capo et al (2018) "The porcine odorant-binding protein as molecular probe for benzene detection" discloses the use of pig odorant-binding protein as probe in a fluorescence assay, for detecting benzene in the atmosphere.

[0010] Nunzio Cennamo et al (2015) "Easy to Use Plastic Optical Fiber-Based Biosensor for Detection of Butanal" discloses the detection of butanal (20-1000 pM) by porcine odorantbinding protein through competitive assay. This aldehyde is very toxic, exhibiting high risks for human health like cytotoxicity and cancer. The authors describe an optical biosensor to detect butanol in liquid samples.

[0011] Carla Silva et al (2014) "Odorant binding proteins: a biotechnological tool for odor control" discloses the application of porcine odorant-binding protein for release of fragrances from a cotton fabric to mask smoke odour. The authors confirmed the functionalization of OBP on fabrics. They tested only the release of one fragrance from textile.1

[0012] Paolo Pelosi et al (2014) "Structure and biotechnological applications of odorantbinding proteins" discloses the possibility of using OBPs as a sensor to detect volatile and the slow release of odorant molecules.

[0013] Mariella Parisi et al (2003) "Unfolding and refolding of porcine odorant binding protein in guanidinium hydrochloride: equilibrium studies at neutral pH" discloses the denaturant effect of guanidinium hydrochloride, a well-known chaotropic agent, in folding / unfolding of protein. The aim of this fundamental study was to understand the structure of the OBP protein, like its unfolding and refolding process.

[0014] Document WO 0123890A1 discloses a detector array based on sensing elements within a solid support for use with clinical samples or cell extracts, in gaseous state. It is an immunoassay utilizing viral peptides.

[0015] Document EP0335654A3 discloses the method for gene isolation of odorantbinding protein from rat and a protein production method.

[0016] Document W02001012806A3 discloses OBP-II as a fixer of hydrophobic ligands such as odours that can be used for personal hygiene, agri-food system and nutritional and therapeutic uses.

[0017] Document WO 2022 / 003655A1 discloses the mechanism of mammalian odorantbinding proteins (OBPs) for fragrance release in the presence of sweat and the uses thereof of the OBPs.

[0018] These facts are disclosed to illustrate the technical problem addressed by the present disclosure.GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0019] The present disclosure relates to fiber protection effects conferred by odorantbinding proteins (OBPs), synthetic / artificial odorant-binding protein or mixtures thereof, namely thermal / heat fiber protection effect. Preferably mammal odorant-binding proteins.

[0020] The present disclosure also relates to the odorant-binding proteins as hair heat protectants, preferably odorant-binding proteins (including synthetic / artificial OBP). These proteins protect the hair from heat damages caused by heat treatment with high temperature devices, while maintaining the mechanical properties of hair and giving the hair a good texture such as softness and moistness.

[0021] The present invention discloses novel applications and formulations using odorantbinding proteins to enhance the heat protection and mechanical resilience of biological fibers, including hair, nails, skin, and other healthcare treatments. The incorporation of odorant-binding proteins in cosmetical formulations significantly increases the resistance of these fibers to heat treatments and mechanical stress, providing superior protection and fortification against damage. The present disclosure includes methods for formulating compositions and applications in cosmetic, hair care, nail care, skincare, and healthcare industries.

[0022] The incorporation of using odorant-binding proteins into cosmetical composition offers several advantages: enhancing resistance to heat treatments and mechanical stress; preventing fibre damage and / or breakage; improving overall health and appearance of biological fibers; for example, hair fiber.

[0023] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to the use of a cosmetic composition comprising odorant-binding proteins, for use in hair care and hair treatment, in particular as a heat protectant for hair.

[0024] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a composition, for use in hair care and hair treatment, comprising odorant-binding protein (mammalian odorant-binding protein, synthetic odorant-binding protein, artificial odorant-binding protein).

[0025] An odorant-binding protein (OBP) is a type of protein that plays a crucial role in the sense of smell in various organisms, including insects, mammals, and other animals. These proteins are primarily found in the sensory organs, such as the antennae in insects or the olfactory epithelium in mammals. OBPs are responsible for binding and transporting odor molecules (odorants) through the surrounding environment to specific receptors located on sensory neurons. By binding to these odorants, OBPs facilitate the recognition and transmission of olfactory signals, allowing organisms to perceive and distinguish various scents.

[0026] A synthetic protein is an artificially designed or chemically synthesized protein molecule that does not occur naturally in living organisms. Scientists create these proteins by assembling amino acids in a specific sequence using chemical synthesis techniques, such as solid-phase peptide synthesis.

[0027] An artificial protein describes proteins that are not naturally occurring or have been engineered or modified extensively from natural proteins. It can include synthetic proteins, but it also covers proteins created through genetic engineering techniques, like a recombinant protein.

[0028] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a composition, for use in hair care and hair treatment, comprising: 0.005% to 1% of an isolated or artificial protein with at least 90%, preferably at least 95%, of identity with an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

[0029] Methods for the alignment of sequences for comparison are well known in the art, such methods include GAP, BESTFIT, BLAST, FASTA and TFASTA. GAP uses the algorithm of Needleman and Wunsch ((1970) J Mol Biol 48: 443-453) to find the global (over the whole the sequence) alignment of two sequences that maximizes the number of matches and minimizes the number of gaps. The BLAST algorithm (Altschul et al. (1990) J Mol Biol 215: 403-10) calculates percent sequence identity and performs a statistical analysis of the similarity between the two sequences. The software for performing BLAST analysis is publicly available through the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Global percentages of similarity and identity may also be determined using one of the methods available in the MatGAT software package (Campanella et al., BMC Bioinformatics. 2003 Jul 10; 4:29. MatGAT: an application that generates similarity / identity matrices using protein or DNA sequences). Minor manual editing may be performed to optimise alignment between conserved motifs, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art. The sequence identity values, which are indicated in the present subject matter as a percentage were determined over the entire amino acid sequence, using BLAST with the default parameters.

[0030] In an embodiment, the heat protection property of the odorant-binding proteins (mammalian odorant-binding protein, synthetic odorant-binding protein, artificial odorant-binding protein) was confirmed by applying the protein onto hair, followed by hair treatment with a high temperature device like flat iron. The treated hair heat resistance was evaluated by determining its Young' modulus parameter using a texture analyser (Figure 1).

[0031] In an embodiment, the composition is applied in dry hair or wet hair, at a concentration ranging from 0.005% to 1% (w / v). Heat promoted by iron flat is applied several times to each tress of hair, at temperatures of up to 250 °C.

[0032] In an embodiment, the composition also improves hair mechanical resistance (Figure 2).

[0033] In an embodiment, the odorant-binding proteins (mammalian odorant-binding protein, synthetic odorant-binding protein, artificial odorant-binding protein) are stable in polar and non-polar solvents, including methanol, butanol, benzene, propylene glycol, and undecanol as well as buffer solutions (Tris-HCI, phosphate, PBS).

[0034] In a further embodiment, the odorant-binding proteins (mammalian odorantbinding protein, synthetic odorant-binding protein, artificial odorant-binding protein) are also stable at temperatures between 18 °C - 70 °C, preferably between 18 °C - 60 °C, and at a pH of between pH 3.0 - pH 10.0.

[0035] As aspect of the present disclosure relates to odorant-binding proteins (mammalian odorant-binding protein, synthetic odorant-binding protein, artificial odorant-binding protein), for incorporating into cosmetic compositions such as hair care or hair treatment formulations.

[0036] In an embodiment, the native form of the mammalian odorant-binding protein is obtained from pig, human, dog, cat, rat, mouse, cow, boar, panda, Chinese hamster, Meishan pig, Guinea pig, Tibetan pig, horse, dolphin or chimpanzee.

[0037] In an embodiment, cosmetic applications comprising composition of the present disclosure is for use in hair care and hair treatment.

[0038] In a further embodiment, the composition for hair care application is in the form of shampoos, dry shampoo, hair heat protectant, hair serum, hairs masks, hair conditioners, or hair coloration creams.

[0039] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a hair care kit comprising the composition of the present disclosure.

[0040] The utilization of using odorant-binding proteins in cosmetical compositions for enhancing the heat protection and mechanical resilience of biological fibers is a significant advancement in the cosmetic field, hair care, nail care, skincare, and healthcare treatments. The present disclosure also relates to compositions that effectively shield and fortify biological fibers, namely hair fibers against detrimental environmental factors, thereby improving their longevity and quality.

[0041] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a cosmetic composition for fortifying biological fibers comprising an effective amount of at least a fiber protection agent and a suitable dermatological excipient and / or carrier; wherein the fiber protection agent is a mammalian odorant-binding protein, or a synthetic / artificial odorant-binding protein, or mixtures thereof.

[0042] In some embodiments, fiber protection agent may be used in a hair care composition, a skin care composition, a nail care composition, a cosmetic composition, or a pharmaceutical composition. Preferably a hair care composition.

[0043] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein comprises at least one protein with a sequence length of 150-400 amino acids.

[0044] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein comprises at least one protein with a sequence length of about 157-350 amino acids, preferably protein with a sequence length of about 160-350 amino acids.

[0045] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein comprises at least one protein with a sequence length of 157-350 amino acids, preferably protein with a sequence length of 160-350 amino acids.

[0046] In an embodiment for better results, the OBP sequence is at least 90% identical, preferably at least 95% identical, or 100% identical to at least one amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof. More preferably a sequence at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100% identical to at least one of the following sequences: SEQ.ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ.ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22.

[0047] In an embodiment for better results, the OBP sequence is identical to at least an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

[0048] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein is at least 90%, preferably at least 95%, of identical with an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22 or mixtures thereof. More preferably a sequence at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100% identical to at least one of the following sequences: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22 or mixtures thereof.

[0049] In an embodiment for better results, the suitable dermatological excipient and / or carrier is a suitable hair treatment excipient and / or carrier.

[0050] In an embodiment for better results, the composition is a hair care composition, nail care composition, skin care composition, or healthcare composition.

[0051] In an embodiment for better results, the composition is a composition for protect the hair, namely a thermal protection of the hair or a heat protection of the hair.

[0052] In an embodiment for better results, the composition is a hair care composition.

[0053] In an embodiment for better results, wherein the amount of fiber protection agent ranges from 0.005-1% (w / v); preferably from 0.01-0.5% (w / v); more preferably from 0.0.12% (w / v).

[0054] In an embodiment for better results, the suitable excipient is selected from a list consisting of hair styling polymer, emulsifier, non-ionic base, or mixture thereof.

[0055] In an embodiment for better results, the composition is in the form of a spray, a serum or a foam.

[0056] In an embodiment for better results, the composition is a shampoo, a dry shampoo, a hair serum, a hair mask, a hair conditioner, a hair dye.

[0057] In an embodiment for better results, the composition further comprises an alcohol, an absorbent, a conditioner, or mixtures thereof.

[0058] In an embodiment for better results, the composition comprises a solvent, preferably the solvent is selected from a list consisting of alcohol, benzene, or mixture thereof.

[0059] In an embodiment for better results, the alcohol is ethanol, methanol, butanol, undecanol, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof.

[0060] In an embodiment for better results, further comprising at least one excipient selected from the group consisting of: anionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, cationic surfactant, non-ionic surfactant, preservative, thickener, naturally-derived polymer, humectant, silicone, organic oil, protein, fragrance, vitamin, emollient ester, alkanolamide, amine, buffer, pH adjustor, salt, aliphatic alcohol, UV filter, amine oxide, chelate, fatty acid, antimicrobial agent, antibacterial agent, PEG material, polymer, anti-static agent, and alcohol.

[0061] In an embodiment for better results, the composition may further comprise at least one compound selected from the group consisting of: preservative, thickener, naturally- derived polymer, humectant, silicone, organic oil, protein, fragrance, vitamin, emollient ester, alkanolamide, amine, buffer, pH adjustor, salt, aliphatic alcohol, UV filter, amine oxide, chelate, fatty acid, antimicrobial agent, antibacterial agent, PEG material, polymer, anti-static agent, alcohol, and mixtures thereof.

[0062] In an embodiment for better results, at least one excipient suitable for dermatological use is selected from ethanol, benzylic alcohol, diol molecule, or mixtures thereof.

[0063] In an embodiment for better results, the diol molecule is selected from: ethylene glycol, propylene diol, butylene glycol, butylene diol, or mixtures thereof.

[0064] In an embodiment for better results, the composition may comprise:0 - 30 % (w / v) of ethanol, preferably 10-20%(w / v); 0 - 3 % (w / v) of benzylic alcohol, preferably 0.5-2%(w / v); 0-20% (w / v) of a diol molecule, preferably 10-15% (w / v).

[0065] In an embodiment for better results, the composition may comprise a propellant, a fragrance, an oil, or mixture thereof.

[0066] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a cosmetic thermal / heat protection agent for the protection of biological fibers comprising a mammalian odorantbinding protein, or a synthetic / artificial odorant-binding protein or mixtures thereof.

[0067] In an embodiment for better results, the biological fiber protection agent is a fibre thermal protection agent or fibre heat fiber protection agent, preferably a hair thermal protection agent or a hair heat protection agent.

[0068] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein comprising at least one protein with a sequence length of 150-400 amino acids.

[0069] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein comprising at least one protein with a sequence length of 160-350 amino acids.

[0070] In an embodiment for better results, the sequence is at least 90%, preferably at least 95%, identical to at least one amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

[0071] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein is at least 90%, preferably at least 95%, of identical with an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

[0072] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein is identical to an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof. More preferably a sequence at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100% identical to at least one of the following sequences: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22.

[0073] In an embodiment for better results, the odorant-binding protein is identical to an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, mixtures thereof.

[0074] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a shampoo, lotion, serum, cream, conditioner, foam, elixir, oil, aerosol or mask comprising the composition or thermal / heat protection agent described in the present disclosure.

[0075] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a kit comprising the thermal / heat protection agent, and / or the cosmetic composition describe in the present disclosure.

[0076] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to the use of a odorant-binding protein as a thermal / heat protection agent for biological fibre, wherein said odorantbinding protein is at least 90%, preferably at least 95%, identical with the sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof. More preferably a sequence at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100% identical to at least one of the following sequences: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO. 15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22.

[0077] In an embodiment for better results, the fibre is a fibre hair, fibre nail or a fibre skin. Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to method for enhancing the heat protection and mechanical resilience of biological fibers, comprising applying a composition described in the present disclosure or the cosmetic protective agent described in the present disclosure to said fibers.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0078] The following figures provide preferred embodiments for illustrating the disclosure and should not be seen as limiting the scope of invention.

[0079] Figure 1 shows hair heat protection effect conferred by application of the composition of the present disclosure. Young' modulus parameter, obtained using a texture analyser, for virgin hair treated with OBPs followed by application of flat iron (5 sec 3 times). Statistical comparisons were performed using one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Turkey's method to identify significant differences between the results. Differences were considered statically significant at p-value < 0.001 (****). The bar corresponds to the standard error.

[0080] Figure 2 shows hair mechanical resistance effect conferred by application of the composition of the present disclosure. Young' modulus parameter, obtained using a texture analyser, for bleached hair treated with OBPs. Statistical comparisons were performed using one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Turkey's method to identify significant differences between the results. Differences were considered statically significant at p- value < 0.001 (****). The bar corresponds to the standard error.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] The present disclosure relates to fiber heat protection effects conferred by odorantbinding proteins (mammalian odorant-binding protein, synthetic odorant-binding protein, artificial odorant-binding protein) and / or modified odorant-binding proteins. The application of OBP proteins directly or into cosmetic composition increase the heat protection and mechanical resilience of biological fibers, including hair, nails, skin, and other healthcare treatments; namely the resistance of hair fibre to heat treatments and mechanical stress. These proteins can be used into formulations / compositions for cosmetic, hair care composition, nail, skin and healthcare treatments.

[0082] The present disclosure also relates to hair heat protection effect conferred by applying a composition comprising odorant-binding proteins (mammalian odorant-binding protein, synthetic odorant-binding protein, artificial odorant-binding protein) to hair.

[0083] The present disclosure relates to heat protection effects conferred by odorantbinding proteins (OBP) to a fibre care composition, namely hair care protection. The application of OBP proteins increase resistance of hair fibre to heat treatments and mechanical stress. These proteins can be used in formulations for cosmetic, and hair care compositions.

[0084] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a composition, for use in hair care and hair treatment, comprising odorant-binding protein.

[0085] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to the use of a cosmetic composition comprising odorant-binding proteins, for use in hair care and hair treatment, in particular as a heat protectant for hair.

[0086] In an embodiment, improvement of hair's resistance to heat, for example heat used in cosmetic treatment for curling and for straightening, was observed.

[0087] In an embodiment, application of composition comprising OBPs onto hair also improved the mechanical resistance of damaged hair.

[0088] The present disclosure is particularly useful in the cosmetic field, especially in the protection of fibres like hair to heat used in cosmetic, such as curling and straightening / smoothing, in particular, thermal hair care products.

[0089] In an embodiment, the produced proteins are stable in solution prepared with different solvents (like hydrogen peroxide, methanol, butanol, benzene, propylene glycol, and undecanol) and different range of temperature (18 - 60 °C) and different range of pH (4.0-10.0).

[0090] In a further embodiment, application of the composition comprising the mammalian odorant-binding proteins onto hair results is improvement in the heat and mechanical resistance of hair (Figures 1 and 2, respectively).

[0091] Repeated hair smoothening using high temperature devices (e.g. flat iron) cause damage to hair. This drastically affect the health hair fibre. The application of OBPs on hair result in increased protection against the damaging effects of heat.

[0092] In an embodiment, a variety of active agents, including thermal protection formula, mechanical resistance, styling primer, or mixtures thereof, can also be used added to the composition, thus allowing a wide range of cosmetic uses.

[0093] In an embodiment, the application of mammalian OBPs on virgin hair followed by flat iron treatment result in an increase of heat protection of hair (Figure 1).

[0094] Figure 1 shows hair heat protection conferred by application of composition comprising OBPs. Young' modulus parameter, obtained using a texture analyser, for virgin hair treated with OBPs followed by application of flat iron (5 sec 3 times). Statistical comparisons were performed using one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Turkey's method toidentify significant differences between the results. Differences were considered statically significant at p-value < 0.001 (****). The bar corresponds to the standard error.

[0095] In an embodiment, the application of the composition comprising OBPs onto bleached (damaged) hair result in the improvement of hair heat and mechanical resistance as compared with bleached hair without any composition applied (Figure 2). The OBPs creates a protective barrier over the hair fibres and help recover some resistance property for the damaged hair.

[0096] Figure 2 shows hair mechanical resistance. Young' modulus parameter, obtained using a texture analyser, for bleached hair treated with OBPs. Statistical comparisons were performed using one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Turkey's method to identify significant differences between the results. Differences were considered statically significant at p- value < 0.001 (****). The bar corresponds to the standard error.

[0097] List of protein sequencesThe sequences of protein are described by one letter code of amino acids. The code is as follows:

[0098] In an embodiment, the sequence is Pig OBP (PDB ID 1DZK) - SEQ ID NO. 1QEPQPEQDPFELSGKWITSYIGSSDLEKIGENAPFQVFMRSIEFDDKESKVYLNFFSKENGICEEFSLIGT KQEGNTYDVNYAGNNKFVVSYASETALIISNINVDEEGDKTIMTGLLGKGTDIEDQDLEKFKEVTRENG IPEENIVNIIERDDCPA

[0099] In an embodiment, the sequence is Human OBPIIa (UniProt ID Q9NY56) - SEQ ID NO. 2MKTLFLGVTLGLAAALSFTLEEEDITGTWYVKAMVVDKDFPEDRRPRKVSPVKVTALGGGNLEATFTF MREDRCIQKKILMRKTEEPGKFSAYGGRKLIYLQELPGTDDYVFYCKDQRRGGLRYMGKLVGRNPNT NLEALEEFKKLVQHKGLSEEDIFMPLQTGSCVLEH

[0100] In an embodiment, the sequence is Human OBPIIb (UniProt ID Q9NPH6) -SEQ ID NO. 3MKTLFLGVTLGLAAALSFTLEEEDITGTWYVKAMVVDKDFPEDRRPRKVSPVKVTALGGGKLEATFTF MREDRCIQKKILMRKTEEPGKYSAYGGRKLMYLQELPRRDHYIFYCKDQHHGGLLHMGKLVGRNSDT NREALEEFKKLVQRKGLSEEDIFTPLQTGSCVPEH

[0101] In an embodiment, the sequence is Mouse OBP (UniProt ID OBP1A) - SEQ ID NO. 4MAKFLLLALTFGLAHAAMEGPWKTVAIAADRVDKIERGGELRIYCRSLTCEKECKEMKVTFYVNENGQ CSLTTITGYLQEDGKTYKTQFQGNNRYKLVDESPENLTFYSENVDRADRKTKLLFILGHGPLTSEQKEKF AELAEEKGIPAGNIREVLITDYCPE

[0102] In an embodiment, the sequence is Mouse OBP2A (UniProt ID Q8K1H9) -SEQ ID NO. 5MKSLLLTILLLGLVAVLKAQEAPPDDLVDYSGIWYAKAMVHNGTLPSHKIPSIVFPVRIIALEEGDLETTV VFWNNGHCREFKFVMKKTEEPGKYTAFHNTKVIHVEKTSVNEHYIFYCEGRHNGTSSFGMGKLMGR DSGENPEAMEEFKNFIKRMNLRLENMFVPEIGDKCVESD

[0103] In an embodiment, the sequence is Mouse 0BP1B (UniProt ID A2AEP0) -SEQ ID NO. 6MMVKFLLLALVFGLAHVHAHDHPELQGQWKTTAIMADNIDKIETSGPLELFVREITCDEGCQKMKVT FYVKQNGQCSLTTVTGYKQEDGKTFKNQYEGENNYKLLKATSENLVFYDENVDRASRKTKLLYILGKG EALTHEQKERLTELATQKGIPAGNLRELAHEDTCPE

[0104] In an embodiment, the sequence is Rat OBP (PDB ID 3FIQ) - SEQ ID NO. 7HHENLDISPSEVNGDWRTLYIVADNVEKVAEGGSLRAYFQHMECGDECQELKIIFNVKLDSECQTHTV VGQKHEDGRYTTDYSGRNYFHVLKKTDDIIFFHNVNVDESGKETNVILVAGKREDLNKAQKQELRKLA EEYNIPNENTQHLVPTDTCNQ

[0105] In an embodiment, the sequence is Rat OBP (PDB ID 3ZQ3) - SEQ ID NO. 8MRGSHHHHHHTDPEEASFERGNLDVDKLNGDWFSIVVASDKREKIEENGSMRVFVQHIDVLENSLG FTFRIKENGVCTEFSLVADKTAKDGEYFVEYDGENTFTILKTDYDNYVMFHLVNVNNGETFQLMELYG RTKDLSSDIKEKFAKLCVAHGITRDNIIDLTKTDRCLQA

[0106] In an embodiment, the sequence is Rat OBP (UniProt ID P08937) - SEQ ID NO. 9MVKFLLIVLALGVSCAHHENLDISPSEVNGDWRTLYIVADNVEKVAEGGSLRAYFQHMECGDECQEL KIIFNVKLDSECQTHTVVGQKHEDGRYTTDYSGRNYFHVLKKTDDIIFFHNVNVDESGRRQCDLVAGK REDLNKAQKQELRKLAEEYNIPNENTQHLVPTDTCNQ

[0107] In an embodiment, the sequence is Bovine OBP (PDB ID 10BP) - SEQ IDNO. 10AQEEEAEQNLSELSGPWRTVYIGSTNPEKIQENGPFRTYFRELVFDDEKGTVDFYFSVKRDGKWKNVHVKATKQDDGTYVADYEGQNVFKIVSLSRTHLVAHNINVDKHGQTTELTGLFVKLNVEDEDLEKFWKLT EDKGIDKKNVVNFLENEDHPHPE

[0108] In an embodiment, the sequence is Boar OBP (PDB ID 1GM6) - SEQ ID NO. 11HKEAGQDVVTSNFDASKIAGEWYSILLASDAKENIEENGSMRVFVEHIRVLDNSSLAFKFQRKVNGEC TDFYAVCDKVGDGVYTVAYYGENKFRLLEVNYSDYVILHLVDVNGDKTFQLMEFYGRKPDVEPKLKDK FVEICQQYGIIKENIIDLTKIDRCFQLRGSGGVQESSAE

[0109] In an embodiment, the sequence is Panda OBP (PDB ID 5NGH) - SEQ ID NO. 12HEEGNDVRRNFDVSKISGYWYSVLLASDVREKTEENSSMRVFVNHIEVLSNSSLLFNMHIKVDGKCTEI ALVSDKTEKDGEYSVEYDGYNVFRIVETDYTDYIIFHLVNFKEKDSFQMMELSAREPDTSEEVRKRFVE YCQKHGIVKENIFDLTEVDRCLQARGSEKA

[0110] In an embodiment, the sequence is Chinese hamster OBP (Ensembl IDENSCGRP00015014591.1) - SEQ ID NO. 13MVKFLLLAFALSVSCAHHKIPEISPSEVDGKWRTLYIGADNTEKVIQGGPLRAYFRHMECSDECQTLTIT FNTKEEGKCQTHTVVGRKDEDGQYKTGFSGNNDFHVVEKADGIIIFHNVNVDSSGKKTNVILV AGKGKSLSKEQKERLENIAKEFDISKENIQHLVPTDTCDQ

[0111] In an embodiment, the sequence is Meishan pig OBP (Ensembl ID ENSSSCP00040041163.1) - SEQ ID NO. 14MKSLLLSLVLGLVCAQEPQPEQDPFVLSGKWITSYIGSSDLEKIGENAPFQVFMRSIEFDDKESKVYLNF FSKENGICEEFSLIGTKQEGNTYDVNYAGNNKFVVSYASETALIISNINVDEEGDKTIMTGLLGKG TDIEDQDLEKFKEVTRENGIPEENIVNIIERDDCPAK

[0112] In an embodiment, the sequence is Horse OBP (Ensembl ID ENSECAP00000000103.2) - SEQ ID NO. 15MQILLLSLVLGVVCAVQEPQSETDYSLFSGEWNTIYIGSSNIEKISENGPFRILLRRLDLDSAGDRIIYTFFL KVNGQCTKISSLAIKTEENTYVCHYAGKNKFEILHLSKTAIIIDIVNEDEGGLVTKMVALVGMLG DIQKEDIEKFKEVAKEKEIPEENIVNIINIDDCPTSE

[0113] In an embodiment, the sequence is Guinea pig OBP ((Ensembl ID ENSCPOPOOOOOD16393.2) - SEQ ID NO. 16MQILLLALTIGLAYAHQTLDPSEINGQWHTISIAADNVEKIGEGGPLRGYFHNLHCYDGCKNIGLTFYV KLDGNCQRFDVLGAKQEDSDVYVAQYSGTNHFEVIGKKEDAIAFYNHNTDETGKETKMIVVVA RRDSLTEEEQQKLQEVAGEKGIPKDNIRYFRERDTCAQ

[0114] In an embodiment, the sequence is Dog OBP ((Ensembl ID ENSCAFP00040020992.1) - SEQ ID NO. 17MKILLLCLILVLACDAHLPLPNVLTQVSGPWKTLYVSSNNLDKIAENGPFRIYIRRINVDIPRLKILFSFFVK VDGECVEKSVEASIGQDNLINAHYAGGNYHQILDVTPNALIGYIVNVDDKGRITKLASLVGRG AHVNEEDIAKFKKLSREKGIPEENIIYLGDTDNCPNHE

[0115] In an embodiment, the sequence is Tibetan pig OBP (Ensembl ID ENSSSCP00015013912.1) - SEQ ID NO. 18MKSLLLSLVLGLVCAQEPQPEQDPFELSGKWITSYIGSSDLEKIGENAPFQVFMRSIEFDDKESKVYLNF FSKENGICEEFSLTGTKQEGNTYDVNYAGNNKFVVSYASETALIIANINVDEEGDKTIMTGLLGK GTDIEDQDLEKFKEVTRENGIPEENIVNIIERDDCPAK

[0116] In an embodiment, the sequence is Cat felis OBP (Ensembl ID ENSFCAP00000053707.1) - SEQ ID NO. 19RSCVIHLQCLPTGCLFSALHNGLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDSRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPDGRLPLPEGRLPLPDSHPPLQDNLTQLSGEWNTLLVAATNVDKISNGPFHGYICKVDVDVTNGTVVFNFSVMMNGRCTEKSAVGTIGRDKFINIGSMNQNLFNLF SVTSNTIAINVNTRRNTTKAFALLDTNGNIFNIGYDSLGSLIIHTANVDTAGQTTQVFALLGKRLHPDDN DFAKFRELMRENNIPEENLIDMSKTEKCPKKEKGTNPS

[0117] In an embodiment, the sequence is Chimpanzee OBP (Ensembl ID ENSPTRP00000048681.3) - SEQ ID NO. 20MALLLLSLGLSLITAQEFDPRNVMQRNYNMARVSGVWYSIFMADDLNRIKENGDLRVFVQNIEHLKN GSLKFDFEYMVQGECVAVVVVCEKTEKNGEYSINYEGQNTVAVSETDYRLFITFHLQNFRNGTE THTLALYETCKKYGLGSQNIINLTNKDPCYSKHYRSPPRPPMRE

[0118] In an embodiment, the sequence is OBP::GQ20::KP (recombinant protein) - SEQ ID NO. 21QEPQPEQDPFELSGKWITSYIGSSDLEKIGENAPFQVFMRSIEFDDKESKVYLNFFSKENGICEEFSLIGT KQEGNTYDVNYAGNNKFVVSYASETALIISNINVDEEGDKTIMTGLLGKGTDIEDQDLEKFKEVTRENG IPEENIVNIIERDDCPAGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGGV CGPSPPCITT

[0119] In an embodiment, the sequence is OBP::GQ20::CBM (recombinant protein) - SEQ ID NO. 22 QEPQPEQDPFELSGKWITSYIGSSDLEKIGENAPFQVFMRSIEFDDKESKVYLNFFSKENGICEEFSLIGT KQEGNTYDVNYAGNNKFVVSYASETALIISNINVDEEGDKTIMTGLLGKGTDIEDQDLEKFKEVTRENG IPEENIVNIIERDDCPAGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQGQASPI GEGTFDDGPEGWVAYGTDGPLDTSTGALCVAVPAGSAQYGVGVVLNGVAIEEGTTYTLRYTATASTD VTVRALVGQNGAPYGTVLDTSPALTSEPRQVTETFTASATYPATPAADDPEGQIAFQ LGGFSADAWTLCLDDVALDSEVELEXAMPLE 1

[0120] As an example, protein SEQ NO 1 and 21 were individually applied onto Asian virgin hair for 5 min. The hair was dried and then a flat iron was applied onto the hair 3 times for 5 seconds each time. The mechanical property of thirty strands of hair were analysed using a texture analyser, before and after application of thermal device.

[0121] As an example, protein SEQ NO 21 was applied onto Asian virgin hair for 10 min and 60 min. Thermal study of hair using a power compensated differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) instrument, at a temperature ranging from 50 °C to 265 °C (heating rate: 5 °C / min) was performed (Table 1). The presence of protein on hair, compared with absence of protein, the increased of the heat / energy (delta H) necessary to break the hair were measure. These results showed that OBP protein has a hair protecting effect against heat damage.

[0122] Table 1. Thermal study of hair treated with OBP Seq NO 21 analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).EXAMPLE 2

[0123] As an example, protein SEQ NO 21 was incorporated into a dry shampoo composition with the following compositions: propellants, solvent, emulsifying, preservative, surfactant / cleansing, fragrances, perfuming, antimicrobial / antibacterial, viscosity controlling and absorbent / mattifier ingredients. It was applied onto human hair of a panel of 15 volunteers, and shows a high remotion of odours from human perspiration. More than 85.7% of the panel did not smell the sweat odors after physical exercise and 60% of this panel smelled a brief or moderate fragrance (it was added to the protein in the dry shampoo). Using technical analysis (GC-MS), in the first hour, more than 48.6% of fragrance bound to protein was release in presence of sweat from hair and after 1 hour, more than 74.6% of this fragrance was release.

[0124] The terms "determining," "measuring," "evaluating," "assessing," "assaying," and "analyzing" are often used interchangeably herein to refer to forms of measurement. The terms include determining if an element is present or not (for example, detection). These terms can include quantitative, qualitative or quantitative and qualitative determinations. Assessing can be relative or absolute. "Detecting the presence of" can include determining the amount of something present in addition to determining whether it is present or absent depending on the context.

[0125] As used herein, the terms "pharmaceutically acceptable" and "cosmetically acceptable" are used interchangeably and refer to those compounds, materials, compositions, and / or dosage forms which are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use in contact with the tissues of human beings and animals without excessive toxicity, irritation, allergic response, or other problems or complications commensurate with a reasonable benefit / risk ratio. More specifically, pharmaceutically / cosmetically acceptable refers to a material, compound, or composition which is suitable for use in contact with the skin, scalp, or hair. Pharmaceutically / cosmetically acceptable materials are known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0126] As used herein, the terms "treatment" or "treating" are used in reference to a pharmaceutical or other intervention regimen for obtaining beneficial or desired results in the recipient. Beneficial or desired results include but are not limited to a therapeuticbenefit and / or a prophylactic benefit. A therapeutic benefit may refer to eradication or amelioration of symptoms or of an underlying disorder being treated. Also, a therapeutic benefit can be achieved with the eradication or amelioration of one or more of the physiological symptoms associated with the underlying disorder such that an improvement is observed in the subject, notwithstanding that the subject may still be afflicted with the underlying disorder. A prophylactic effect includes delaying, preventing, or eliminating the appearance of a disease or condition, delaying or eliminating the onset of symptoms of a disease or condition, slowing, halting, or reversing the progression of a disease or condition, or any combination thereof. For prophylactic benefit, a subject at risk of developing a particular disease, or to a subject reporting one or more of the physiological symptoms of a disease may undergo treatment, even though a diagnosis of this disease may not have been made.

[0127] Where singular forms of elements or features are used in the specification of the claims, the plural form is also included, and vice versa, if not specifically excluded. For example, the term "a peptide" or "the peptide" also includes the plural forms "peptides" or "the peptides," and vice versa. In the claims articles such as "a," "an," and "the" may mean one or more than one unless indicated to the contrary or otherwise evident from the context. Claims or descriptions that include "or" between one or more members of a group are considered satisfied if one, more than one, or all of the group members are present in, employed in, or otherwise relevant to a given product or process unless indicated to the contrary or otherwise evident from the context. The disclosure includes embodiments in which exactly one member of the group is present in, employed in, or otherwise relevant to a given product or process. The disclosure also includes embodiments in which more than one, or all of the group members are present in, employed in, or otherwise relevant to a given product or process.

[0128] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention encompasses all variations, combinations, and permutations in which one or more limitations, elements, clauses, descriptive terms, etc., from one or more of the claims or from relevant portions of the description is introduced into another claim. For example, any claim that is dependent on another claim can be modified to include one or more limitations found in any other claim that is dependent on the same base claim.

[0129] Furthermore, where the claims recite a composition, it is to be understood that methods of using the composition for any of the purposes disclosed herein are included, and methods of making the composition according to any of the methods of making disclosed herein or other methods known in the art are included, unless otherwise indicated or unless it would be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art that a contradiction or inconsistency would arise.

[0130] Where ranges are given, endpoints are included. Furthermore, it is to be understood that unless otherwise indicated or otherwise evident from the context and / or the understanding of one of ordinary skill in the art, values that are expressed as ranges can assume any specific value within the stated ranges in different embodiments of the invention, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit of the range, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is also to be understood that unless otherwise indicated or otherwise evident from the context and / or the understanding of one of ordinary skill in the art, values expressed as ranges can assume any subrange within the given range, wherein the endpoints of the subrange are expressed to the same degree of accuracy as the tenth of the unit of the lower limit of the range.

[0131] The term "comprising" whenever used in this document is intended to indicate the presence of stated features, integers, steps, components, but not to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

[0132] The disclosure should not be seen in any way restricted to the embodiments described and a person with ordinary skill in the art will foresee many possibilities to modifications thereof.

[0133] The embodiments described above are combinable.

Claims

C L A I M S1. Cosmetic composition for fortifying biological fibers comprising an effective amount of at least a fiber protection agent and a suitable dermatological excipient and / or carrier; wherein said fiber protection agent is a mammalian odorant-binding protein, or a synthetic / artificial odorant-binding protein, or mixtures thereof.

2. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims wherein the odorant-binding protein comprises at least one protein with a sequence length of 150- 400 amino acids.

3. Cosmetic composition according to the previous claim wherein the odorant-binding protein comprises at least one protein with a sequence length of about 157-350 amino acids, preferably protein with a sequence length of about 160-350 amino acids.

4. Cosmetic composition according to the previous claim wherein the odorant-binding protein comprises at least one protein with a sequence length of 157-350 amino acids.

5. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the odorant-binding protein sequence is at least 90% to at least an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

6. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the odorant-binding protein sequence is at least 95% identical to at least an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO.9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ.ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

7. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the odorant-binding protein sequence is at least identical to at least an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO.9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO.20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

8. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the odorant-binding protein identical with an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

9. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the suitable dermatological excipient and / or carrier is a suitable hair treatment excipient and / or carrier.

10. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims wherein the composition is a hair care composition, nail care composition, skin care composition, or healthcare composition.

11. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims wherein the composition is a composition for protect the hair, namely a thermal protection of the hair or a heat protection of the hair.

12. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims wherein the composition is a hair care composition.

13. Cosmetic composition according to the previous claim, wherein the amount of fiber protection agent ranges from 0.005-1% (w / v); preferably from 0.01-0.5% (w / v); more preferably from 0.012-0.1% (w / v).

14. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the suitable excipient is selected from a list consisting of hair styling polymer, emulsifier, non-ionic base, or mixture thereof.

15. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the composition is in the form of a spray, a serum or a foam.

16. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the composition is a shampoo, a dry shampoo, a hair serum, a hair mask, a hair conditioner, a hair dye.

17. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the composition further comprises an alcohol, an absorbent, a conditioner, or mixtures thereof.

18. Cosmetic composition according to the previous claim, wherein the composition comprises a solvent, preferably the solvent is selected from a list consisting of alcohol, benzene, or mixture thereof.

19. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the alcohol is ethanol, methanol, butanol, undecanol, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof.

20. Cosmetic composition according to any one of the previous claims, further comprising at least one excipient selected from the group consisting of: anionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, cationic surfactant, non-ionic surfactant, preservative, thickener, naturally-derived polymer, humectant, silicone, organic oil, protein, fragrance, vitamin, emollient ester, alkanolamide, amine, buffer, pH adjustor, salt, aliphatic alcohol, UV filter, amine oxide, chelate, fatty acid, antimicrobial agent, antibacterial agent, PEG material, polymer, anti-static agent, and alcohol.

21. Cosmetic composition according to any of the previous claims, further comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of: preservative, thickener,naturally-derived polymer, humectant, silicone, organic oil, protein, fragrance, vitamin, emollient ester, alkanolamide, amine, buffer, pH adjustor, salt, aliphatic alcohol, UV filter, amine oxide, chelate, fatty acid, antimicrobial agent, antibacterial agent, PEG material, polymer, anti-static agent, alcohol, and mixtures thereof.

22. Cosmetic composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one excipient suitable for dermatological use is selected from ethanol, benzylic alcohol, diol molecule, or mixtures thereof.

23. Cosmetic composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein the diol molecule is selected from: ethylene glycol, propylene diol, butylene glycol, butylene diol, or mixtures thereof.

24. Cosmetic composition according to any of the previous claims, comprising:0 -30 % (w / v) of ethanol, preferably 10-20%(w / v);0- 3 % (w / v) of benzylic alcohol; preferably 0.5-2%(w / v);0-20% (w / v) of a diol molecule, preferably 10-15% (w / v).

25. Composition according to any one of the previous claims, further comprising a propellant, a fragrance, an oil, or mixture thereof.

26. Cosmetic thermal / heat protection agent for the protection of biological fibers comprising a mammalian odorant-binding protein, or a synthetic / artificial odorantbinding protein or mixtures thereof.

27. Agent according to the previous claim wherein the biological fiber protection agent is a fiber thermal protection agent or fiber heat protection agent, preferably a hair thermal protection agent or a hair heat protection agent.

28. Agent according to anyone of the previous claims wherein the odorant-binding protein comprising at least one protein with a sequence length of 150-400 amino acids.

29. Agent according to the previous claim wherein the odorant-binding protein comprising at least one protein with a sequence length of 160-350 amino acids.

30. Agent according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the sequence of the odorant-binding protein is at least 90%, identical to at least a sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

31. Agent according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the sequence of the odorant-binding protein is at least 95% identical to a sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

32. Agent according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the sequence of the odorant-binding protein is identical to a sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

33. Agent according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the odorant-binding protein is at a sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

34. Agent according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the odorant-binding protein is identical to an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. IDNO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

35. Agent according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the odorant-binding protein is identical to an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, mixtures thereof.

36. Shampoo, lotion, serum, cream, conditioner, foam, elixir, oil, aerosol or mask comprising the composition and / or thermal / heat protection agent described in any one of the previous claims.

37. Kit comprising the thermal protection agent, and / or the cosmetic composition according to any of the previous claims.

38. Use of an odorant-binding protein as a thermal / heat protection agent for biological fibre, wherein said odorant-binding protein is a mammalian odorant-binding protein, or a synthetic / artificial odorant-binding protein or mixtures thereof.

39. Use of the composition according to the previous claim, wherein said odorant-binding protein is at least 90%identical with at least one amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO.16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

40. Use of the composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein the odorantbinding protein is at least 95% of identical to at least one amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10,SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO. 17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

41. Use of the composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein the odorantbinding protein is identical to an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 2, SEQ. ID NO. 3, SEQ. ID NO. 4, SEQ. ID NO. 5, SEQ. ID NO. 6, SEQ. ID NO. 7, SEQ. ID NO. 8, SEQ. ID NO. 9, SEQ. ID NO. 10, SEQ. ID NO. 11, SEQ. ID NO. 12, SEQ. ID NO. 13, SEQ. ID NO. 14, SEQ. ID NO.

15. SEQ. ID NO. 16, SEQ. ID NO.17, SEQ. ID NO. 18, SEQ. ID NO. 19, SEQ. ID NO. 20, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

42. Use of the composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein the odorantbinding protein is identical to an amino acid sequence selected from the following list: SEQ. ID NO. 1, SEQ. ID NO. 21, SEQ. ID NO. 22, or mixtures thereof.

43. Use of the composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein the fibre is a fibre hair, fibre nail or a fibre skin.

44. A method for enhancing the heat protection and mechanical resilience of biological fibers, comprising applying a composition described in any one of the previous claims or the cosmetic agent according to any one of the previous claims to said fibers.