Bespoke bio-inspired peptides for haircare applications

Technology
In development
Company

Zentraxa's innovative peptide-based adhesion promotors are designed using biomimetic motifs from marine molluscs, elastin, and silk, offering enhanced adhesion to hair. These peptides interact with keratin fibers and hydrophobic surfaces, ensuring lasting binding even after washing. The green manufacturing process supports scalability for commercial use.

Overview

Zentraxa introduces a groundbreaking solution in the form of bespoke bio-inspired peptides for haircare applications. These peptides are designed using biomimetic motifs akin to those found in marine molluscs, elastin, and silk. This innovation aims to enhance cosmetic product formulations by promoting strong adhesion to hair. The peptides interact with exposed keratin fibers and hydrophobic surfaces, like 18-MEA, ensuring a robust and durable bond that withstands multiple washing and drying cycles.

Technical specifications

Key features:

  • Bio-based and biocompatible peptide formulations
  • Proven binding capabilities to natural keratin and hydrophobic surfaces
  • Resilient adhesion maintained through routine consumer hair washing and drying
  • Green, scalable manufacturing process compliant with environmental standards
  • Customizable peptide sequences for a variety of binding modalities and mechanical enhancements
Technology readiness level

Zentraxa's peptide technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4. The peptides have been successfully tested for binding properties and scalability, with ongoing validations to further assess performance and regulatory compatibility. Future steps include small-scale testing using human hair models and identifying lead candidates for commercial applications.


About Zentraxa Ltd

Zentraxa Limited is an engineering biology company that develops nature-inspired, highly-functional bio-adhesives. At the core of the company is its proprietary Zentide platform, which leverages synthetic biology to create scalable peptides designed for specific adhesive functions. These materials are engineered to be industrially robust, allowing for simple integration into existing manufacturing processes. By taking inspiration from marine mussels and other natural systems, Zentraxa creates products that perform effectively in challenging conditions, including wet, high-friction, and submerged environments. The company focuses on developing sustainable, high-performance alternatives to conventional chemical adhesives, with specific applications in sectors such as personal care, advanced wound care, medical wearables, transport, and structural industrial settings. Zentraxa collaborates with industry partners to integrate these ingredients into bespoke solutions, aiming to address problems related to durability, pain-free medical dressing removal, and material performance in extreme conditions. The technology also offers capabilities for de-bondable adhesives in optics and security, as well as functional ingredients for strengthening and protecting hair in personal care applications.

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