Comparison of the histological features in the photoaged animal model

Abstract

Background: Photoaging is a type of aging primarily caused by exposure to radiation, such as Ultraviolet B (UVB). This radiation penetrates the upper epidermis and papillary dermis leading to sunburn, tanning, photoaging, and photocarcinogenesis. Its light is a significant cause of direct deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage. Furthermore, it induces transcription factors, such as NF- and other pro-inflammatory cytokines, the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the differences in the histologic features of the photoaged animal models. Methods: There were three groups, including P1, P2, and P3. Group P1 consists of male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), aged 10-12 weeks, with average body weight between 100-150 grams. Group P2 consists of C57BL aged 5-6 weeks with an average weight of 50-75 grams. P3 comprises BABL/c mice aged 5-6 weeks with an average weight of 50-75 grams. They were photoaged for 6 weeks using UV lamps (Ultraviolet B Broadband TL lamps. Phillips TL 20W/01 RS) with a 290-315 nm wavelength. Results: The results showed a significant difference in epidermal thickness, dermal thickness, and sunburn cell (SBC) between groups after exposure to UVB radiation (p<0.05). Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in their blood vessels (p>0.05). Conclusion: The exposure to UVB for six weeks affects epidermal and dermal thickness, amount of SBC, and blood vessels in the photoaged animal model.