Gly-Pro-Val-Gly-Pro-Ser Low Molecular Weight Fish Collagen Peptide Promotes Hair Regeneration in Human Dermal Papilla Cells and C57BL/6 Mice

Hair loss is characterized by reduced hair thickness, decreased density, and delayed growth and is associated with factors such as aging, stress, and environmental influences. This study investigated the effects of Gly-Pro-Val-Gly-Pro-Ser low molecular weight fish collagen peptide (FC) on improving hair health and alleviating hair loss. Human dermal papilla cells and C57BL/6 mice were used as experimental models. Mice were administered FC at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight, followed by protein and RNA analyses and histological evaluations. The results showed that FC significantly increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, PCNA, Hepatocyte growth factor, endothelial growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor 1, which play essential roles in hair follicle growth and regeneration. Additionally, FC administration reduced the expression of specific proteins negatively associated with hair health. Histological and morphological analyses revealed that FC enhanced hair follicle size, density, and overall hair quality. These findings suggest that FC may promote hair growth and regeneration.