Research suggests a specific peptide has enhanced anti-ageing properties

The research confirmed by the study proves how this peptide ultimately serves to replenish collagen levels, in turn increasing skin elasticity which in turn can lead to visibly fewer or diminished wrinkles and fine lines.

Although many cosmetics companies have been claiming that peptides can serve to reduce wrinkles, concrete independent scientific evidence has been traditionally hard to find, so this study should serve to reinforce claims that refer to this specific peptide.

MatrixlyTM enhances collagen​

The research team said that they focused on the effectiveness of MatrixylTM on collagen and found that it enhances the amount of collagen that the cells in the body can produce, providing the concentration is sufficiently high enough to begin with.

Collagen plays a vital part in tissue connectivity in all mammals. In human skin cells, its gradual depletion with age means that the skin's structure is diminished, ultimately leading to a less supple and more wrinkled complexion.

"Studies like this are very important for the consumer as cosmetic companies rarely publish their work so rivals can't copy their products,”​ said Professor Ian Hamley, from the University of Reading's Department of Chemistry.

The incredible potential of collagen-based materials​

The research was supported by a University studentship with some additional funding by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), and is published in the online title, Molecular Pharmaceutics under the title Collagen Stimulating Effect of Peptide Amphiphile C16-KTTKS on Human Fibroblasts.​

"Collagen-based materials have immense potential in tissue engineering,"​ said Professor Hamley.

Further funding for the research programme is expected to take the study into the area of wound healing in battlefield applications, as part of a collaboration with the UK Ministry of Defence.

"Studies like this are very important for the consumer as cosmetic companies rarely publish their work so rivals can't copy their products, because it shows that products with MatrixylTM will have skin-care benefits,"​ Professor Hamley added