Hydrolysed collagen peptides
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Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides: Benefits and Applications
Introduction to Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides (HCP) are small protein fragments derived from collagen, a primary structural protein in the body. These peptides are produced through enzymatic hydrolysis, resulting in low molecular weight peptides that are easily absorbed by the body . HCPs have gained significant attention for their potential health benefits, particularly in skin health, and are widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Sources and Extraction of Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides
HCPs can be sourced from various animal by-products, including bovine, porcine, and marine sources. Recent research highlights the advantages of marine-derived collagen due to its lower risk of disease transmission and better bioavailability . The extraction process involves enzymatic hydrolysis in acid or alkaline media, which affects the molecular weight, solubility, and functional activity of the peptides .
Skin Health Benefits of Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides
Improvement in Skin Moisture and Elasticity
Several studies have demonstrated that oral ingestion of HCPs can significantly improve skin moisture and elasticity. A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial showed that collagen hydrolysates with higher contents of bioactive peptides, such as Prolyl-Hydroxyproline (Pro-Hyp) and Hydroxyprolyl-Glycine (Hyp-Gly), led to notable improvements in facial skin moisture, elasticity, and reduction of wrinkles and roughness compared to a placebo. Another study confirmed that collagen peptides rich in X-Hyp or X-Hyp-Gly significantly increased skin elasticity and collagen synthesis in the dermis.
Reduction of Wrinkles and Skin Aging
HCPs have also been shown to reduce signs of skin aging, such as wrinkles and desquamation. A study involving the oral intake of collagen peptide NS (CPNS) demonstrated significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, desquamation, and wrinkling after 12 weeks of supplementation. The presence of bioactive peptides like Gly-Pro and Pro-Hyp in CPNS was crucial for these beneficial effects.
Mechanism of Action
The beneficial effects of HCPs on skin health are attributed to their ability to reach the bloodstream and subsequently the skin. Studies have identified various collagen-derived peptides, including Gly-Pro-Hyp and Pro-Hyp, in the blood and skin after oral ingestion of collagen hydrolysates . These peptides enhance the production of hyaluronic acid and promote the proliferation of dermal fibroblasts, which are essential for maintaining skin structure and function .
Applications Beyond Skin Health
Antioxidant and Functional Properties
HCPs derived from fish by-products have shown significant antioxidant activities, making them valuable for various applications. Peptide fractions with low molecular weight exhibited high hydroxyl-radical-scavenging activity and reducing power, indicating their potential as functional food ingredients. Additionally, these peptides demonstrated excellent solubility and emulsifying properties, further expanding their industrial applications.
Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Uses
Due to their bioactive properties, HCPs are also explored for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. They have been shown to inhibit plasma amine oxidase and bind bile acids, suggesting potential roles in managing metabolic disorders and improving gut health. The targeted development of collagen-active peptides through composite enzyme hydrolysis has further enhanced their functional activities, such as ACE inhibitory activity and fibroblast proliferation.
Conclusion
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides offer a promising avenue for improving skin health and have diverse applications in various industries. Their ability to enhance skin moisture, elasticity, and reduce wrinkles, coupled with their antioxidant and functional properties, makes them valuable as dietary supplements and functional food ingredients. Continued research and development in this field will likely uncover more benefits and applications of these bioactive peptides.
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