sh-Oligopeptide-5 (rh-Oligopeptide-7) is an N-terminal fragment of human AIMP1 (ARS-interacting multi-functional protein 1). It is a synthetic analog of a human peptide (the "sh" prefix means synthetic human and "rh" means recombinant human) that mimics the action of endogenous AIMP1 protein.
AIMP1 has shown biological activity in stimulating human dermal fibroblast cell growth, collagen synthesis, and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) which is the key growth factor for keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation. Stimulating fibroblasts, sh-Oligopeptide-5 enhances collagen production, improving skin firmness, smoothness, and elasticity. In addition, it promotes the release of KGF enhancing skin cells' renewal rate and desquamation of pigmented keratinocytes (cells carrying melanin pigment), brightening the skin tone and exposing radiant complexion.