Sh-Polypeptide-9
SH-Polypeptide-9, also known as Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), is a single-chain recombinant human peptide produced by fermentation in E. coli from a synthesized copy of the human gene coding for VEGF-A. It is a cell signaling protein whose primary biological function is to stimulate the formation of blood vessels. In cosmetic formulations it most commonly appears as part of a growth factor blend trade-named BIO-Placenta, which combines it with EGF, IGF-1, FGF1, and FGF2.
Manufacturer claims suggest it supports fibroblast cell nutrition, promotes cell growth and migration, and aids wound healing. As part of the BIO-Placenta complex it is associated with anti-wrinkle, skin rejuvenation, elasticity enhancement, moisturizing, and cell vitalization properties. However, the use of growth factors in cosmetic products is noted as controversial, and independent clinical evidence for topical efficacy is limited.
The use of growth factors in cosmetic products is described by the source as "somewhat controversial"; consumers new to the topic are directed to review a broader discussion of growth factor use in cosmetics before use.
