Tetrapeptides consisting of (I or V)-X1-K-X2, where X1 can be selected from E, Q or K, and X2 can be selected from M, F, I, W, or V, exhibit diverse bioactivities. They are multi-functional
effector molecules to stimulate keratinocytes migration; neutralize the proinflammatory effect of bacterial
cell wall components such as lipoteichoic acids of the
Gram-positive S. aureus; and induce
angiogenesis in cultured human
umbilical vein endothelial cells. The downregulation of pro-inflammatory condition was also demonstrated using SOR-300-FT
psoriasis skin model for representative
peptide. The bioactivity was also supported by
gene profiling study upon treatment of
normal skin tissues using EPIDERM™
skin substitutes. The inventive peptides with diverse bioactivities are useful for treating various
skin conditions including, but not limited to, acute or chronic wounds, striae distensae, aging skin, hair control, inflammatory skins such as
psoriasis,
atopic dermatitis and
rosacea and for
unwanted hair removal or for conditions such as removal of skin tags.