Scientific studies on deer velvet

The researchers performed quantitative proteomic analysis of deer antlers using advanced SWATH-MS technology, which allowed them to compare the protein composition of the antler tip (growth center), middle section (mineralization section), and deer ribs as a control. The study identified 259 proteins and revealed significant differences in their abundance and function between the different parts. Proteins related to blood physiology and Wnt signaling pathways, which are key to bone growth regulation, were abundant in the mineralization section. In contrast, proteins associated with protein synthesis and antioxidant capacity dominated in the antler tips. The research highlighted the crucial role of oxidative stress regulation in deer antler regeneration—the high metabolic activity of fast-growing antlers requires a strong antioxidant response to protect cells from damage. The study also discusses the unique annual osteoporosis that deer experience to support antler growth and compares it to pathological osteoporosis in humans. This proteomic analysis provides the most comprehensive view of the molecular mechanisms enabling the extraordinary regenerative capacity of deer antlers and opens new perspectives for regenerative medicine research.

The researchers successfully created an immortal line of deer antler stem cells (AnSCs) by introducing the gene for human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) via a lentiviral vector. The study demonstrated that these immortalized hTERT-AnSCs exhibit prolonged proliferation potential and extended lifespan exceeding 40 passages while retaining key characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells. This includes specific surface markers (CD44, CD90) and the ability to differentiate into various cell types (osteogenic, adipogenic, chondrogenic). A significant finding was that small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from these immortalized cells retain identical morphological and structural properties as vesicles from primary AnSCs. This breakthrough provides a robust cellular model for regenerative medicine research and offers a scalable method for the production of AnSCs and their sEVs, which have significant potential for therapeutic applications. Due to their regenerative properties and low immunogenicity, these cells and their extracellular vesicles are a promising tool not only for the treatment of various diseases but also for the cosmetics industry.

Researchers have investigated the therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from antler bud stem cells (ABPCs) for alleviating the signs of aging. ABPCs are a unique population of mesenchymal stem cells found in regenerating antlers that exhibit extraordinary regenerative and growth capabilities. The study demonstrated that extracellular vesicles derived from these cells (EVsABPC) effectively restore bone mass, improve physical performance, enhance cognitive function, reduce systemic inflammation, and reset epigenetic age in both aging mice and rhesus macaque monkeys. In mice, EVsABPC reversed epigenetic age by more than 3 months, while in macaques, they reversed it by more than 2 years. Detailed analysis identified the protein Prkar2a as a key geroprotective factor contained in these vesicles. The research also highlights the translational value of EVsABPC for the development of interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging, including their stability, abundance, and regenerative potential. This study represents a significant advance in anti-aging research and suggests that extracellular vesicles from deer antlers could be an effective and practical strategy for slowing down the aging process and improving quality of life in old age.

The researchers developed and tested the efficacy of a cosmetic serum based on virgin coconut oil (VCO) in combination with deer antler stem cell extract on a mouse model of UVA-induced skin aging. The results of the study showed that the experimental serum significantly improved the parameters of aging skin, including wrinkle reduction, shortened skin healing time, increased collagen density, and improved epidermal thickness. Coconut oil provided deep hydration, while deer antler stem cell extract contributed its regenerative properties and ability to stimulate collagen production. Histological analysis revealed that the serum significantly increased collagen fiber density in the dermis and improved skin structure. Mechanistic studies suggested that the combination of these two ingredients provides a synergistic effect—coconut oil improves skin barrier function and hydration, while deer antler stem cell extract promotes cell regeneration and extracellular matrix synthesis. This study represents the first scientific evidence of the effectiveness of combining these natural ingredients for cosmetic purposes and suggests their potential as alternatives to synthetic anti-aging products.

Researchers investigated the ability of deer velvet extract (DAV) to stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. The extract was administered using a special delivery system utilizing chitosan-liposomes and microspikes for effective penetration into the hair follicles. Laboratory tests on cell cultures showed that deer velvet extract, particularly at a concentration of 100 μg/ml, significantly increased the activity of tyrosinase (a key enzyme for melanin production) and the melanin content in cells without any toxic effects. A subsequent clinical study on human volunteers who applied the extract gel to their scalp for four weeks showed a significant increase in melanin levels compared to untreated skin. The results suggest that deer velvet extract, combined with an advanced delivery system, represents a promising approach to addressing gray hair by stimulating natural melanin production.

Researchers investigated the effects of deer antler extracts (PAE) on the treatment of androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness), which is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Studies in mouse models with androgenetic alopecia have shown that PAE accelerates the activation of the hair growth phase (anagen), delays the transition to the resting phase, and alleviates typical changes associated with balding, such as hair shortening and miniaturization. At the cellular level, PAE promotes the proliferation of hair follicle stem cells, outer root sheath cells, and hair bulb cells. Using a combination of network pharmacology and transcriptomics, researchers have found that the therapeutic effects of PAE are closely linked to the activation of the PI3K-AKT and Wnt-β-catenin signaling pathways, which are key to the hair growth cycle. In addition, PAE increases the density of blood vessels around the dermal papilla, which improves hair follicle nutrition. These results provide a scientific basis for the potential use of deer antler extracts as a natural alternative in the treatment of androgenic alopecia.

The study examined the effects of fermented deer antler extract (FA) on age-related muscle loss. Research on middle-aged mice (equivalent to approximately 50-year-old humans) showed that supplementing the diet with FA for 12 weeks significantly improved muscle strength, forced swimming endurance, and increased muscle mass. Biochemical analysis revealed that FA improves blood biomarkers associated with muscle and liver damage, suggesting its protective effect on muscle tissue. At the molecular level, FA regulates genes involved in muscle protein degradation and synthesis and influences genes related to apoptosis (programmed cell death), leading to better preservation of muscle mass. Histological analysis confirmed an increase in muscle fiber cross-sectional area in mice treated with FA. These results suggest that fermented deer antler extract could be a promising dietary supplement for improving muscle health and combating sarcopenia (muscle loss) in the aging population. However, further clinical studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans.

Researchers investigated the biological effects of peptides derived from deer antler, which are traditionally used in the preparation 'Guilu Erxian Jiao' for the treatment of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Laboratory experiments on human cells have shown that these peptides significantly stimulate the proliferation of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) and chondrocytes (cartilage cells). At the same time, they promote the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans and collagen, which are essential components of cartilage tissue, and inhibit the differentiation of osteoclasts (bone-degrading cells). The study also revealed a synergistic effect of deer antler peptides with calcium and strontium in promoting osteoblast growth, suggesting their potential to improve the biological absorption of calcium. An important finding is that these peptides exhibit a favorable safety profile with no signs of toxicity. The results provide a scientific basis for the efficacy of the traditional medicinal product and pave the way for the development of new therapies for musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

The study examined the antitumor properties of deer velvet extract (DVA) on various types of cancer cells. The researchers found that DVA exhibits direct antitumor effects on various human tumor cell lines, including glioblastoma, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and leukemia, by significantly reducing the viability and motility of tumor cells while not harming healthy cells. Experiments in mice with glioblastoma xenografts showed that administration of DVA (both oral and intraperitoneal) led to a significant reduction in tumor weight by 61-66% and a corresponding decrease in spleen weight. Histopathological analysis revealed that DVA induces necrosis in tumor cells and affects tumor angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels). Research also suggests that DVA modulates the immune system by downregulating factors that promote tumor progression and immune tolerance and upregulating factors that fight cancer. These results show that deer velvet extract has potential for future anticancer treatment, likely through direct effects on cancer cells and by enhancing the immune system's ability to fight tumors.

Researchers investigated the antitumor activity of deer antler velvet extract (DAV) with a focus on its potential use in the treatment of malignant gliomas (glioblastomas). Deer antlers are unique in their rapid but non-cancerous growth, suggesting the presence of both proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. The study demonstrated for the first time that extract from the tips of antlers (not from the middle sections) exhibits antitumor effects on glioblastoma cell lines (T98G and A172). Specifically, the extract reduced tumor cell proliferation, inhibited colony formation and migration, disrupted the cell cycle, and promoted apoptosis (programmed cell death). A significant finding was that the deer velvet extract showed no toxicity to non-tumor cell lines (HEK293 and HACAT) and in some cases even promoted their growth. This contrasts with the chemotherapeutic drug temozolomide (TMZ), which exhibited non-specific toxicity to both tumor and non-tumor cells. These results suggest that deer antler velvet extract contains bioactive compounds with tumor-suppressing properties and could be developed as a new, less toxic therapeutic strategy for the treatment of glioblastoma. However, further in vivo studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

The study investigated the potential immunomodulatory mechanisms of deer antler, a traditional Chinese medicine, using a combination of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. The researchers identified four active compounds (including 17-beta estradiol and estrone) and 130 key target proteins involved in the immune regulation of deer antler. The main signaling pathways included those associated with cancer, human cytomegalovirus infection, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Molecular docking analyses and molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated strong binding affinities between certain active compounds (such as 17-beta estradiol and estrone) and central target proteins such as AKT1 and MAPK3, suggesting their key role in immunomodulatory effects. These results provide a theoretical basis for further experimental verification of the active compounds in deer antler velvet and their mechanisms in immune regulation. The study thus contributes to a better understanding of the molecular basis of the traditional use of deer antler velvet to boost the immune system and paves the way for the development of targeted immunomodulatory preparations based on its active components.

An eight-month, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the efficacy and safety of YHC-BE-2040 (HENKIV®), an enzymatically processed extract of deer velvet, on immune system function in healthy Korean adults aged 40 to 70 years. The study included 120 participants divided into high-dose, low-dose, and placebo groups. The results showed a significant increase in natural killer (NK) cell activity and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) in both the high-dose and low-dose groups compared to the placebo group, with a clear dose-response relationship observed. The extract was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported, and the mild to moderate adverse events observed were not clearly associated with the intervention. The study concludes that YHC-BE-2040 has potential as a safe and effective modulator of immune function, supporting its use as a dietary supplement to boost immunity. This is the first clinical study in humans to provide direct evidence of the immunomodulatory effects of deer antler velvet extract, paving the way for its use as a natural means of boosting the immune system.

The researchers investigated the molecular mechanisms by which deer antler supports the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), a process essential for bone formation and regeneration. Using advanced methods of bioinformatics, machine learning, and molecular docking, they identified 62 bioactive compounds and 1,051 potential target genes in deer antler velvet. A key discovery was that the JUN gene acts as a central regulatory element in this process. During osteogenic differentiation, there is a significant reduction in JUN expression, suggesting its important role in controlling the transformation of stem cells into bone cells. The study also demonstrated that JUN can serve as an accurate diagnostic biomarker for this process. Another interesting aspect is the relationship between JUN and various immune cell populations, suggesting its role in modulating the immune microenvironment during bone regeneration. Molecular docking simulations confirmed strong binding interactions between the JUN protein and two active compounds from deer antlers—retinol and progesterone. These results provide a scientific basis for the therapeutic use of deer antlers in the treatment of bone disorders and suggest that their effects are primarily mediated by modulation of JUN gene activity.

Researchers investigated the efficacy of conditioned medium from deer antler stem cells (ASC-CM) for cartilage regeneration. Articular cartilage has limited self-regenerative capacity, making stem cell therapy a promising approach. Deer antlers, known for their rapid growth and self-repair capabilities, contain stem cells (ASCs) that contribute to this process. The study hypothesized that ASCs or their paracrine factors could promote cartilage repair. The researchers prepared ASC-CM and evaluated its effects both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro experiments showed that ASC-CM significantly promotes chondrocyte proliferation, significantly increases the expression of genes related to chondrogenesis (Aggrecan, Col II, Sox-9), and improve glycosaminoglycan production and type II collagen deposition. It also increases the expression of the apoptosis-suppressing gene NAMPT and decreases the expression of the apoptosis gene BAX, suggesting an anti-apoptotic effect on chondrocytes. In vivo, ASC-CM significantly repaired cartilage defects in rats, with histological evaluation showing results similar to healthy cartilage. Proteomic analysis of ASC-CM identified key proteins such as S100A4 and S100B, which are thought to play a crucial role in promoting cartilage repair through interactions with other cytoskeletal proteins and synergistic effects with other growth factors such as TGF-β and IGF-I. These findings suggest that ASC-CM offers a promising, economical, and practical cell-free therapeutic strategy for cartilage regeneration that avoids the problems associated with direct stem cell transplantation.

Researchers investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of water extracts from sambar deer velvet (SVAE) and red deer velvet (RVAE) in a mouse model of colitis induced by sodium dextran sulfate (DSS). The study found that high doses of both extracts significantly alleviated colitis symptoms by reducing systemic inflammation, strengthening intestinal barrier integrity through the restoration of tight junction proteins, and improving intestinal dysbiosis (imbalance of intestinal bacteria). Using a multiomic approach that combines various analytical methods, the researchers identified small molecules (<3 kDa) as potential bioactive components responsible for these effects. These molecules include L-carnitine, hypoxanthine, adrenic acid, creatinine, gamma-aminobutyryl-lysine, oleic acid, glycine, poly-γ-glutamic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid. Microbiota analysis showed that both extracts help restore the healthy composition of intestinal bacteria disrupted by colitis. This study provides the first comprehensive evidence of the potential of deer velvet water extracts as natural agents for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and elucidates the molecular mechanisms of their anti-inflammatory effects.

Researchers investigated the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of deer antler velvet extract (DA) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint deformities and disability. The study used the ethyl acetate fraction of deer antler velvet ethanol extract (DA-EE-EA) to treat TNF-α-stimulated synoviocytes (joint lining cells) and mouse models of collagen-induced arthritis. The results showed that DA-EE-EA significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, and proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β, IL-6, and IL-8, in synoviocytes. At the molecular level, the extract reduced the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase and the translocation of nuclear factor kappa B p65, which are key molecules in inflammatory processes. Intraperitoneal injections of DA-EE-EA for 3 weeks significantly reduced the clinical arthritis score in mouse models. Histopathological analyses of the hind paws showed that DA-EE-EA reduced immune cell infiltration, synovial hyperplasia, and cartilage damage. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, and interferon-gamma were reduced in the homogenates of the hind paws of mice treated with the extract. This study provides the first scientific evidence of the efficacy of deer velvet in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and elucidates its anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Researchers investigated the neuroprotective effects of deer velvet peptide (VAP) both in vitro (on PC12 cells) and in an in vivo model of Parkinson's disease in mice induced by MPTP. The study found that VAP significantly reduces apoptosis (programmed cell death) and oxidative stress by activating the SIRT1-mediated Akt/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, which is key to protecting nerve cells. In mice with experimentally induced Parkinson's disease, VAP mitigated the loss of dopaminergic neurons, whose degeneration is the main pathological feature of this disease. An interesting finding was that VAP also modulated intestinal microbiota dysbiosis (imbalance of intestinal bacteria), which is consistent with growing evidence of the importance of the gut-brain axis in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. These results suggest that deer velvet peptide could be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of Parkinson's disease due to its dual action of protecting neurons from oxidative damage and restoring the balance of the gut microbiota.

The study examined the effect of the polypeptide PNP2, isolated from deer antler velvet (Cornu Cervi Pantotrichum), on cognitive impairment in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The researchers found that PNP2 administration significantly improved cognitive function in mice with AD, as demonstrated by better results in spatial memory and learning tests. At the molecular level, PNP2 significantly reduced the central inflammatory response in the brain and inhibited the activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway, which plays a key role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Further in vitro experiments on microglial cells (immune cells of the brain) confirmed that PNP2 suppresses inflammatory responses and NLRP3 activation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Histopathological analysis showed that PNP2 reduces the deposition of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in brain tissue, which are characteristic features of Alzheimer's disease. This study provides the first evidence that deer antler polypeptide can alleviate central nervous inflammation and cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease by suppressing NLRP3 signaling, suggesting its potential as a new therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

The researchers investigated the potential of deer antler peptides (DAP) in the prevention and treatment of age-related brain damage, using a D-galactose-induced aging model in mice and in vitro on BV2 cells. The study found that DAP significantly improved learning and memory in aged mice, as demonstrated by better performance in the Morris water maze test. At the molecular level, DAPs increased levels of neurotrophic factors (BDNF, VEGF) that are crucial for neuron survival and function, while reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in brain tissue. Histopathological analysis showed that DAPs mitigate D-galactose-induced pathological brain damage. Mechanistic studies revealed that the protective effects of DAP are mediated by inhibition of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in inflammatory processes in the brain. These results suggest that deer antler peptides represent a promising natural bioactive agent for the prevention and treatment of age-related brain damage. However, the study highlights limitations related to the animal model used and the duration of the study, which requires further research to confirm these effects in clinical settings.

Researchers investigated the effects of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from deer antler stem cells (ABPCs) on the regeneration of injured spinal cord. Deer antlers are the only case of complete organ regeneration in mammals, making their stem cells extremely interesting for regenerative medicine. The study showed that EVs from these cells (EVsABPC) significantly increase the proliferation of neural stem cells and activate the regenerative potential of neurons, leading to a 5.2-fold increase in axon length. In addition, EVsABPC exhibit immunomodulatory effects, changing the phenotype of macrophages from pro-inflammatory M1 to anti-inflammatory M2, creating a more favorable environment for nerve tissue regeneration. When these vesicles were engineered with activated cell-penetrating peptides (ACPP@EVsABPC), they significantly surpassed the efficacy of EVs from bone marrow and neural stem cells, leading to a 1.3-fold increase in axon growth, a 30.6% reduction in neuronal apoptosis, and a 2.6-fold improvement in motor function recovery. Histological analysis showed a significant reduction in lesion size and increased axon density at the injury site. This study represents a significant advance in the treatment of spinal cord injury, which traditionally has limited regenerative capacity, and suggests that extracellular vesicles from deer antler stem cells may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with spinal cord injury.

The researchers investigated the role of systemic factors, specifically deer blood plasma during the antler regeneration period (ARPBP), in promoting regenerative wound healing. The study found that wounds on the foreheads of deer healed regeneratively during the antler growth period (ARP) but scarred outside of this period (non-ARP). Topical application of ARPBP to rat wounds also induced regenerative healing, suggesting that these factors are not species-specific. The mechanism involves a reduced inflammatory response, reduced differentiation of myofibroblasts (cells that produce scar tissue), increased angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), a higher ratio of TGF-β3 to TGF-β1 (growth factors that regulate healing), and orchestrated collagen remodeling. Comparative proteomic analysis identified IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) and PRG4 (proteoglycan 4) as key factors overexpressed in ARPBP. Further experiments showed that the combination of IGF-1 and PRG4 significantly accelerated wound healing and promoted regeneration, with PRG4 indirectly increasing angiogenesis. These results suggest that systemic factors from antler regeneration could offer new possibilities for scar-free wound healing in clinical settings by creating a favorable environment for regeneration rather than scar formation.

Researchers investigated the efficacy of deer velvet extract (Cervus elaphus sibiricus, CES) in promoting fracture healing. Traditionally used in Korean medicine to strengthen bones, this study provides experimental data supporting its use. Using an animal model of femoral fracture in mice and human MG63 osteoblast-like cells, the researchers found that CES administration accelerated bone union, increased cartilage formation in the early stages, and rapidly reduced the amount of cartilage due to callus formation. Molecular analysis revealed that CES increased the expression of TGF-β1, BMP2, and osterix at the fracture site and promoted osteoblast differentiation and mineralization in MG63 cells. At the cellular level, CES stimulated osteoblast proliferation and increased alkaline phosphatase activity, which are key processes in the formation of new bone tissue. Histological analysis confirmed increased bone formation and faster bone remodeling in mice treated with CES. The study concludes that deer velvet extract promotes fracture healing by increasing chondrogenesis (cartilage formation) and osteoblastogenesis (bone cell formation), at least in part through the BMP2-Smad signaling pathway, suggesting its potential as a natural agent for promoting bone union in fractures.