BCAA and their Hair Growth Stimulating Effect
L-Leucine is released through the breakdown of protein by pancreatic enzymes during digestion.
by Oxford Biolabs

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) are amino acids having aliphatic side-chains with a branch (a carbon atom bound to more than two other carbon atoms). Out of twelve common amino acids, there are three with branched-chains (leucine, isoleucine and valine).

The BCAA are among the nine essential amino acids for humans, accounting for 35% of the essential amino acids in muscle proteins and 40% of the preformed amino acids required by mammals.

BCAAs have been used clinically to aid in the recovery of burn victims and are often used as a sports supplement in order to peak performance.

L-Leucine is released through the breakdown of protein by pancreatic enzymes during digestion. Being an essential amino acid, Leucine cannot be synthesised by the body – rather, it must be obtained through the foods that we eat. While Leucine so far has not been in use as a therapeutic agent, it plays a very significant role in supporting several important bodily functions.

Leucine:

  • lowers elevated blood sugar
  • promotes the healing of skin, muscle tissue, and bones
  • fights infection
  • aids blood sugar synthesis in the liver during stress and starvation
  • helps maintain muscle mass
  • is essential for hemoglobin production
  • increases growth hormone production

Since Leucine helps the body maintain its muscle mass, many bodybuilders use supplements that contain Leucine to help with muscle recovery. Leucine is also used as an experimental treatment for liver disease.

Leucine can be found in beans, brown rice, corn, dairy products, eggs, fish, legumes, meat, nuts, seafood, and other protein-rich foods.
Although Leucine deficiency is rare, it can occur in individuals without adequate protein intake such as vegans or vegetarians. Symptoms of Leucine deficiency include hypoglycemia (resulting fatigue, headaches and dizziness) and insulin shortage.

Dr. Whitfield answers your questions.

Question:  Hey Dr. Whitfield, why are L-Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine used in TRX2 products? What effect, if any, do these have on hair growth? Are there any side effects I should be aware of?

Thanks,

TPB –  sent via email

Answer:  Good question! L-Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine are branched-chain amino acids (known as BCAA) and are the three main components of potassium ion channels found in human hair follicles.

Men and women experiencing hair loss have hair follicles that are deficient with regard to potassium ion channels. Potassium ion channels are the core components of the hair follicle, essential for maintaining its full biological activity and function.

TRX2® scientists found that by adding BCAA to the TRX2® Hair Growth Formula we could boost  de novo synthesis  of potassium channels in human hair follicles and further optimise the hair growth stimulating effect of TRX2®. Our products work with your body to protect hair cells from damage and degradation. There are no known side effects.

After testing hundreds of formulations of micronutrients, we centered upon the TRX2® formula that includes a plethora of unique and powerful ingredients. This approach has allowed our company to succeed where others have failed. Our products work with your body to protect hair cells from damage and degradation. There are no side effects, no complications and no hassles… just honest, noticeable results.

Send your questions to  AskTom@trx2.com .

Thomas F.A. Whitfield, DPhil, is an internationally recognized expert on potassium ion channels, former scientist of the University of Oxford’s Department of Biochemistry and member of TRX2®’s Scientific Advisory Board.

The specific potassium channel found in human hair follicles has three major amino acid components: L-Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine (often referred to as BCAA). By incorporating these components into our proprietary complex, our team has successfully found a way to replenish the membrane potential of hair cells and stimulate synthesis of new potassium channels within hair follicles.

A young, healthy hair follicle (one containing sufficient active potassium channels) has a maximum membrane potential and therefore a maximum biological activity and function. However, recent studies indicate that as we experience hair loss, the membrane potential of the hair follicles plasma membrane is diminished – a result of the impaired functionality or even absence of potassium channels within the hair follicle.

TRX2 ®  Molecular Food Supplement for Hair stop hair loss and support the growth of robust, healthy hair by restoring the molecular components of hair follicles that usually diminish over time. Try our products risk-free today and be one of the first to experience your second generation of hair! We look forward to hearing from you, and to incorporating you as part of our ever-expanding TRX2® community.

This Research Update column highlights articles related to recent scientific inquiry into the process of hair loss. It is not intended to promote any specific ingredient, regimen, or use and should not be construed as evidence of the safety, effectiveness, or intended uses of the TRX2 ®  product. The TRX2 ®   label should be consulted for intended uses and appropriate directions for use of the product.