Antiaging synergistic effect in noninvasive transdermal delivery of peptide loaded liposomes by low energy/frequency radiofrequency

Abstract

Low energy/frequency radiofrequency (LRF) combined with the transdermal delivery of liposome (L) encapsulated antiaging peptides technology is a remarkable, newly developed physical noninvasive transdermal penetration technique; it is considered a highly efficient, comprehensive and safe technology. In this study, our objective was to evaluate the physical and chemical mechanisms underlying the efficacy of this innovative technique involving a combination of LRF and L, termed LLRF, that exerts a synergistic anti-aging effect on human skin, via an animal experiment. Physical and chemical analyses indicated that a relatively stable liposome with a uniform nano-size, which was formed, possessed good transdermal permeability that was 2.74 folds higher than that of the free peptide (F). LLRF exhibited a higher transdermal permeation performance that was of 3.65 folds higher than that of the free one, which was substantiated via confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy. The mouse UVB photoaging model trial confirmed that the LLRF technology exerted a significant synergistic effect compared to liposome technology, or free peptide, by downregulating inflammatory factors (IL-6, TNF-α), inhibiting the mRNA and protein expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP1, MMP3), promoting the mRNA and protein expression of related collagens (Procollagen, Col1α1 and Col3α1), and repairing the stratum corneum barrier function, as evidenced by trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), skin cuticle hydration (SCH), and decreased expression of β-gal, an aging marker. These findings indicated that photoaging skin can be effectively and comprehensively rejuvenated, and that even photodamage can be reversed, thereby restoring the original physiological characteristics of healthy skin. Clinical tests have confirmed that although liposome technology is an effective antiaging method which helps exert tightening and anti-wrinkle effects on human skin, LLRF is an even more effective anti-aging technique. This study reveals a highly effective technique involving a combination physical and chemical therapy that may be utilized for antiaging purposes as well as repairing lightly damaged skin, and can be made readily available in the future.