What Is Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69?
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69 is a lab designed version of human collagen made in silkworms. Scientists insert the human gene that tells cells how to build the collagen alpha-1(III) chain into the silkworm’s DNA. When the silkworm spins, it produces a single chain protein that can be up to 1 466 amino acids long and may include natural links like disulfide bonds or sugar groups. The result is a string of the same 20 standard amino acids found in our own skin.
The idea took off in the early 2000s as researchers looked for cleaner greener ways to make human-like proteins without using animal parts. Silkworms were a good fit because their silk glands are already set up to pump out large amounts of protein. Once the caterpillars have done their work the raw silk is dissolved purified and filtered to collect the peptide. The finished ingredient is then dried or blended into a water-based solution ready for labs that formulate skincare.
Today you will most often see Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69 in face serums sheet masks firming creams eye treatments and any product that promises plumper smoother or more hydrated skin. It can be used on its own or paired with classic hydrators like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This engineered peptide helps improve how a formula looks feels and performs on the skin.
- Humectant: Attracts and binds water so formulas stay moist in the jar and keep skin hydrated after application. This can soften rough patches reduce the look of fine lines and give skin a dewy finish.
- Skin conditioning: Forms a light flexible film that smooths the skin surface supports barrier function and enhances overall comfort leaving skin feeling silky rather than sticky.
Who Can Use Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69
This peptide is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its water-binding nature can be especially helpful for dry or mature skin that needs extra moisture while the light film it forms will not feel heavy on oilier complexions. People with a known allergy to silk proteins or insect products should avoid it because trace residues from the silkworm could trigger a reaction.
Because it is made in live silkworms it is not considered vegan. Some vegetarians may also choose to avoid it for the same reason even though no vertebrate animals are involved in production.
No human or animal studies show that topical use is harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding and the large protein molecule is unlikely to penetrate deeply enough to enter the bloodstream. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to their doctor before use.
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69 does not increase photosensitivity. Users can apply it day or night and layer it with sunscreens or other actives without special precautions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69 vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues but they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Redness or mild irritation
- Temporary itching or stinging on application
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to silk or insect proteins
- Hives or swelling as part of a more severe allergy
- Breakouts in very acne-prone skin if the finished product includes heavy occlusive ingredients
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5. Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69 is a large water-soluble protein that sits on the surface of the skin rather than slipping into pores, so it does not have the oily or waxy character that normally clogs follicles. This makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Only the other ingredients in a finished product, such as heavy oils or butters, would change the overall pore-clogging risk.
Summary
Transgenic Silkworm Rh-Polypeptide-69 is a lab-grown version of human type III collagen that acts as a humectant and skin-conditioning film former. It pulls water into the upper layers of skin, boosts softness and smooths texture by laying down a thin, flexible veil. Because it is manufactured in silkworms, supply is limited and it remains more of a specialty add-on than a mass-market staple, but interest is growing as brands search for novel collagen alternatives.
Topical use is considered low risk: the molecule is too big to penetrate deeply and reactions are rare outside of silk allergies. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product to rule out personal sensitivity before full-face use.