PTD-DBM (CXXC5/Dvl disruptor) (5mg)

PTD-DBM targets the **CXXC5** protein, a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in hair follicles. CXXC5 binds to Dishevelled (Dvl), preventing it from transducing the Wnt signal downstream. The PTD (cell-penetrating sequence, e.g., TAT) allows the peptide to enter the cell, and the DBM (Dishevelled-Binding Motif) competes with CXXC5 for binding to Dvl. This releases Dvl, leading to β-catenin stabilization, nuclear translocation, and activation of target genes that promote **hair follicle stem cell activation** and re-initiation of the anagen (growth) phase. In wound models, the same mechanism accelerates epithelialization.

• Reconstitution: 5.0 mL bacteriostatic water → 1 mg/mL.
• Route: Topical, not injection.
• Research: Often in combination with valproic acid (VPA) for Wnt synergy.
• Status: Investigational — human pilot studies only.
• Storage: 2–8 °C, potential freezing in aliquots.

1. Clean vial stopper with alcohol pad.
2. Draw up 5.0 mL bacteriostatic water or PBS.
3. Inject slowly down the vial side.
4. Gently swirl until dissolved — do not shake.
5. Aliquot, store at −20 °C or 2–8 °C.

• PTD-DBM was designed by Choi's team (Yonsei University, South Korea).
• It combines a PTD (Protein Transduction Domain) with a Dishevelled-binding motif.
• It disrupts the CXXC5–Dishevelled interaction, releasing inhibition of the Wnt pathway.
• In mouse models after shaving: re-initiation of hair follicle anagen phase.
• Pilot studies in men with androgenetic alopecia — preliminarily encouraging.

• Research Profile: apply topically to scalp 1× daily.
• Common combination: PTD-DBM + valproic acid (Wnt agonist).
• Pilot study duration: 16 weeks.
• No FDA/EMA-approved regimen.
• No indication for systemic (injectable) use in humans.
• Break between cycles: No formal washout. Pilot studies employed a 16-week on / 4-week off pattern.

• Lyophilized powder: −20 °C, protect from light & moisture.
• Reconstituted: 2–8 °C for immediate use.
• Long-term storage: −20 °C or −80 °C in aliquots.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

• Investigational compound — not FDA/EMA approved.
• Wnt/β-catenin activation is theoretically linked to increased oncogenic risk with chronic systemic use — topical application is considered lower risk.
• Not recommended for patients with a history of skin cancer.
• No long-term safety data in humans.
• This protocol is strictly educational/research-oriented.

1. CXXC5 as Wnt inhibitor in hair follicles — Lee SH, et al. Targeting of CXXC5 by a competing peptide stimulates hair regrowth. J Invest Dermatol. 2017.
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2. PTD-DBM + valproic acid synergy — Ryu YC, Lee DH, Shim J, et al. KY19382, a small molecule, restores hair growth via dual targeting of CXXC5 and GSK3β. Br J Pharmacol. 2021.
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3. Wound healing applications — Park S, Cho HY, Wang M, et al. Targeting of CXXC5 stimulates wound healing. Theranostics. 2019.
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4. Pilot human study — Yonsei University CXXC5 program — preliminary clinical observations.
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5. Wnt signaling in hair follicle stem cells — Choi BY. Hair-growth-promoting effects of CXXC5 inhibition. Int J Mol Sci. 2020.
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