GDF-11 Peptides for Skin Aging via Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current topical formulations using full-length Growth Differentiation Factor 11 (GDF-11) proteins face delivery challenges and potential undesired activities, limiting their effectiveness in addressing dermatological aging signs such as wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.

Innovation Solution

Development of smaller peptide sequences (3-11 amino acids) derived from GDF-11, specifically designed to mimic functional regions of the protein, which are topically applied in compositions to enhance collagen and hyaluronic acid production, thereby improving skin health and appearance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If full-length GDF-11 protein is used in topical formulations, then biological activity is maintained, but delivery challenges and undesired activities occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebiological activityVSAvoiddelivery
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The full-length GDF-11 protein (153 amino acids) is divided into smaller peptide fragments of 3-11 amino acids. These segmented peptides retain the ability to stimulate collagen and hyaluronic acid production while being more suitable for topical application and penetration through the skin barrier.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Specific functional regions are extracted from the full-length GDF-11 protein sequence to create minimal peptide sequences (3-11 amino acids) that contain the essential bioactive motifs. These extracted peptides mimic the functional regions responsible for stimulating fibroblast activity and extracellular matrix production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If full-length GDF-11 protein is used, then complete functional activity is achieved, but undesired activities and formulation challenges arise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional activityVSAvoidundesired activities
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Only the essential functional motifs are extracted from the full-length protein, creating minimal peptides that perform the desired collagen-stimulating function without the potential side effects associated with the complete protein structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The peptide design focuses on specific local regions of the GDF-11 protein that contain the critical functional information for fibroblast stimulation. These localized sequences (3-11 amino acids) are optimized to interact with specific cell surface receptors while minimizing off-target effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9597274B2Peptides and their use in the treatment of skin
Publication Date: 2017.03.21 AVON PROD INC
  • US9597274B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Peptides (and derivatives thereof), topical compositions, and methods of diminishing signs of aging and/or improving health of human integuments are provided. The peptides are derived from human Growth Differentiation Factor 11 (GDF-11).