Skin Collagen Research Articles

In vitro and in vivo Evaluation of Antifibrotic Properties of Verteporfin in a Composition of a Collagen Scaffold.

Extensive skin damage requires specialized therapy that stimulates regeneration processes without scarring. The possibility of using combination of a collagen gel application as a wound dressing and fibroblast attractant with verteporfin as an antifibrotic agent was examined in vivo and in vitro. In vitro effects of verteporfin on viability and myofibroblast markers expression were evaluated using fibroblasts isolated from human scar tissue. In vivo the collagen gel and verteporfin (individually and in combination) were applied into the wound to investigate scarring during skin regeneration: deviations in skin layer thickness, collagen synthesis, and extracellular matrix fibers were characterized. The results indicate that verteporfin reduces fibrotic phenotype by suppressing expression of the contractile protein Sm22α without inducing cell death. However, administration of verteporfin in combination with the collagen gel disrupts its ability to direct wound healing in a scarless manner, which may be related to incompatibility of the mechanisms by which collagen and verteporfin control regeneration.

Quaternary ammonium carboxymethyl chitosan composite hydrogel with efficient antibacterial and antioxidant properties for promoting wound healing

Multifunctional hydrogels have been developed to meet the various requirements of wound healing. Herein, an innovative hydrogel (QCMC-HA-PEG) was formed through the Schiff base reaction, composed of quaternary ammonium-modified carboxymethyl chitosan (QCMC), hyaluronic acid (HA), and 8-arms Polyethylene Glycol aldehyde (8-ARM-PEG-CHO). The resulting hydrogels exhibited good mechanical and adhesive properties with improved antibacterial efficacy against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria compared to CMC hydrogels. QCMC-HA-PEG hydrogels demonstrated remarkable adhesive ability in lap-shear test. Furthermore, the incorporation of MnO2 nanosheets into the hydrogel significantly enhanced its reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and oxygen generation capabilities. Finally, experimental results from a full-thickness skin wound model revealed that the QCMC-HA-PEG@MnO2 hydrogel promoted skin epithelization, collagen deposition, and inflammatory regulation significantly accelerated the wound healing process. Therefore, QCMC-HA-PEG@MnO2 hydrogel could be a promising wound dressing to promote wound healing.

Recent advances in rapid and reliable biosensors for detection of porcine gelatine

SummaryGelatine is obtained from the hydrolysis of collagen in bones, skin, fins, fish scales and insect bodies of cattle, pigs, camels, poultry, fish and insects. Consequently, the diversity and availability of gelatine sources, along with gelatine authentication, are concerns for those consuming gelatine products from religious, health and economic perspectives. Therefore, rapid and reliable protein‐ or DNA‐based detection methods have been developed for gelatine authentication. This review discusses and evaluates biosensor methods, comparing them with various analytical methods in terms of their popularity and precision. Additionally, the development of biosensor methods has been explored to identify a reference for a rapid, accurate, portable and simple method for gelatine detection with a low detection limit and high specificity.

Elucidating the Role of Transcriptomic Networks and DNA Methylation in Collagen Deposition of Dezhou Donkey Skin.

DNA methylation represents a predominant epigenetic modification with broad implications in various biological functions. Its role is particularly significant in the process of collagen deposition, a fundamental aspect of dermal development in donkeys. Despite its critical involvement, the mechanistic insights into how DNA methylation influences collagen deposition in donkey skin remain limited. In this study, we employed whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to investigate the epigenetic landscape and gene expression profiles in the dorsal skin tissues of Dezhou donkeys across three developmental stages: embryonic (YD), juvenile (2-year-old, MD), and mature (8-year-old, OD). Our analysis identified numerous differentially methylated genes that play pivotal roles in skin collagen deposition and overall skin maturation, including but not limited to COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1, COL4A1, COL4A2, GLUL, SFRP2, FOSL1, SERPINE1, MMP1, MMP2, MMP9, and MMP13. Notably, we observed an inverse relationship between gene expression and DNA methylation proximal to transcription start sites (TSSs), whereas a direct correlation was detected in regions close to transcription termination sites (TTSs). Detailed bisulfite sequencing analyses of the COL1A1 promoter region revealed a low methylation status during the embryonic stage, correlating with elevated transcriptional activity and gene expression levels. Collectively, our findings elucidate key genetic markers associated with collagen deposition in the skin of Dezhou donkeys, underscoring the significant regulatory role of DNA methylation. This research work contributes to the foundational knowledge necessary for the genetic improvement and selective breeding of Dezhou donkeys, aiming to enhance skin quality attributes.

Hydrogels containing KYNA promote angiogenesis and inhibit inflammation to improve the survival rate of multi-territory perforator flaps

BackgroundA new spray adhesive (KYNA-PF127) was established through the combination of thermosensitive hydrogel (Pluronic F127) and KYNA, aimed to investigate the effect of KYNA-PF127 on multi-territory perforator flaps and its possible molecular mechanism. Materials and methods36 SD male rats with 250–300 g were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 12): control group, blank glue group and KYNA-PF127 group. KYNA-PF127 hydrogel was prepared and characterized for its morphology and properties using scanning electron microscopy. CCK-8 assay, scratch wound assay, transwell assay, tube formation assay and Ki67 staining were used to study the effect of KYNA-PF127 on the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of HUVECs. VEGF and FGF2 were measured by qPCR to evaluate the angiogenesis capacity of HUVECs in vitro. In vivo, the effect of each group on the survival area of the cross-zone perforator flap was evaluated, and angiogenesis was evaluated by HE and immunofluorescence (CD31 and MMP-9). The effect of inflammation on skin collagen fibers was assessed by Masson. Immunohistochemistry (SOD1, IL-1β, TNF-α) was used to evaluate the effects of oxidative stress and inflammatory factors on multi-territory flaps. ResultsKYNA-PF127 has good sustained release and biocompatibility at 25% concentration. KYNA-PF127 promoted the proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs in vitro. In vivo, the survival area of multi-territory perforator flaps and angiogenic capability have increased after KYNA-PF127 intervention. KYNA-PF127 could effectively reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation of multi-territory perforator flaps. ConclusionKYNA-PF127 promotes angiogenesis through its antioxidant stress and anti-inflammatory effects, and shows potential clinical value in promoting the survival viability and drug delivery of multi-territory perforator flaps.

Enhancement of skin rejuvenation and hair growth through novel near-infrared light emitting diode (nNIR) lighting: in vitro and in vivo study

The study aimed to explore the impact of a novel near-infrared LED (nNIR) with an extended spectrum on skin enhancement and hair growth. Various LED sources, including White and nNIRs, were compared across multiple parameters: cytotoxicity, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction, skin thickness, collagen synthesis, collagenase expression, and hair follicle growth. Experiments were conducted on human skin cells and animal models. Cytotoxicity, ATP synthesis, and ROS reduction were evaluated in human skin cells exposed to nNIRs and Whites. LED irradiation effects were also studied on a UV-induced photoaging mouse model, analyzing skin thickness, collagen synthesis, and collagenase expression. Hair growth promotion was examined as well. Results revealed both White and nNIR were non-cytotoxic to human skin cells. nNIR enhanced ATP and collagen synthesis while reducing ROS levels, outperforming the commonly used 2chip LEDs. In the UV-induced photoaging mouse model, nNIR irradiation led to reduced skin thickness, increased collagen synthesis, and lowered collagenase expression. Additionally, nNIR irradiation stimulated hair growth, augmented skin thickness, and increased hair follicle count. In conclusion, the study highlighted positive effects of White and nNIR irradiation on skin and hair growth. However, nNIR exhibited superior outcomes compared to White. Its advancements in ATP content, collagen synthesis, collagenase inhibition, and hair growth promotion imply increased ATP synthesis activity. These findings underscore nNIR therapy’s potential as an innovative and effective approach for enhancing skin and promoting hair growth.

Comparison of Structural and Physicochemical Characteristics of Skin Collagen from Chum Salmon (Cold-Water Fish) and Nile Tilapia (Warm-Water Fish).

This study compared collagens from cold-water and warm-water fish for their structural, rheological, and functional properties, and explored their potential applications, aiming to realize the high-value utilization of marine biological resources. To this end, chum salmon skin collagen (CSSC) and Nile tilapia skin collagen (NTSC) were both successfully extracted. Collagens from the two species had different primary and secondary structures, with NTSC having a higher molecular weight, imino acid content, and α-helices and β-turns content. The denaturation temperatures were 12.01 °C for CSSC and 31.31 °C for NTSC. CSSC was dominated by viscous behavior and its structure varied with temperature, while NTSC was dominated by elastic behavior and its structure remained stable with temperature. Both collagens had good oil holding capacity, foaming capacity, and emulsifying activity, but NTSC had better water holding capacity and foaming and emulsifying stability. Their different properties make CSSC more suitable for the preservation of frozen and chilled foods and the production of sparkling beverages, and give NTSC greater potential in biofunctional materials and solid food processing.

Optimization of cobia fish (Rachycentron canadum) gelatin extraction with response surface methodology

Cobia fish or often called sea cork fish, is a fish that has thick meat which is nutritionally equivalent to salmon meat. Cobia fish is usually sold in the form of fish fillets and the bones becomes solid waste, which has the potential to be a raw material for fish gelatin. Gelatin is a bone and skin collagen hydrolysis product that can be used for food and nonfood industries. The quality of fish gelatin is influenced by the extraction process, such as acid concentration, temperature, and extraction time. This study aims to determine the effect of hydrochloric acid concentration, temperature, extraction time, and the optimal process of making cobia fish bone gelatin using the response surface methodology with the Box Behnken model. The data was processed using Design Expert 11 software. The model suggested by the software was the cubic model. The optimum extraction conditions obtained were using a concentration of 5.53% hydrochloric acid, a temperature of 90oC, and a stirring time of 6.42 mins would produce a yield of 12.38% and gel strength of 229.14 bloom. The verification results by extracting cobia fish gelatin with optimum conditions obtained a yield of 11.22% and gel strength of 227.60 bloom. The proximate analysis of cobia fish gelatin extracted under optimum conditions was found to contain 6.43% water content, 8.27% ash content, 4.65% fat content, 68.47% protein content, and 12.18% carbohydrate by different. Cobia fish gelatin microstructure is in the form of thick strands with a soft sponge.

Role of the mitochondrial protein cyclophilin D in skin wound healing and collagen secretion.

Central for wound healing is the formation of granulation tissue, which largely consists of collagen and whose importance stretches past wound healing, including being implicated in both fibrosis and skin aging. Cyclophilin D (CyD) is a mitochondrial protein that regulates the permeability transition pore, known for its role in apoptosis and ischemia-reperfusion. To date, the role of CyD in human wound healing and collagen generation has been largely unexplored. Here, we show that CyD was upregulated in normal wounds and venous ulcers, likely adaptive as CyD inhibition impaired reepithelialization, granulation tissue formation, and wound closure in both human and pig models. Overexpression of CyD increased keratinocyte migration and fibroblast proliferation, while its inhibition reduced migration. Independent of wound healing, CyD inhibition in fibroblasts reduced collagen secretion and caused endoplasmic reticulum collagen accumulation, while its overexpression increased collagen secretion. This was confirmed in a Ppif-KO mouse model, which showed a reduction in skin collagen. Overall, this study revealed previously unreported roles of CyD in skin, with implications for wound healing and beyond.

Improvement of the antifreeze activity of tilapia skin collagen peptides through enzymatic supramolecular assembly approach

SummaryEnzymatic supramolecular assembly was applied to increase the thermal hysteresis activity (THA) of tilapia skin collagen peptides and their applicability as cryoprotectants. The THA value of the glutamine‐assembled product increased by 61.5% and its ice crystal content dropped by 33.93% compared to the collagen peptides. Following initial separation and purification, the THA of Gln‐AFPs was further elevated by 28.6%. After five freeze–thaw cycles, tilapia surimi treated with 8% Gln‐AFPs had high levels of salt‐soluble protein, total sulfhydryl content, Ca2+‐ATPase activity, and water‐holding capacity. Additionally, the cryoprotective effect of Gln‐AFPs on the surimi was found to be superior to that of commercial antifreeze. The majority of the Gln‐AFPs turns folded, according to FTIR analysis, and ‐helices were produced. After supramolecular assembly, the Gln‐AFPs structure also smoothed out. As a result, the enzymatic supramolecular assembly drastically increased the antifreeze activity of the tilapia skin‐collagen peptides, which could eventually be developed into a novel antifreeze additive in the food industry.

Ketotifen directly modifies the fibrotic response of human skin fibroblasts

Fibrosis is a destructive, end-stage disease process. In the skin, it is associated with systemic sclerosis and scarring with considerable health burden. Ketotifen is a clinical antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer. Studies have demonstrated mast cell-dependent anti-fibrotic effects of ketotifen but direct effects on fibroblasts have not been determined. Human dermal fibroblasts were treated with pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ) followed by ketotifen or control treatments to determine direct effects on fibrotic fibroblasts. Ketotifen impaired TGFβ-induced α-smooth muscle actin gene and protein responses and decreased cytoskeletal- and contractility-associated gene responses associated with fibrosis. Ketotifen reduced Yes-associated protein phosphorylation, transcriptional coactivator with PDZ binding motif transcript and protein levels, and phosphorylation of protein kinase B. In a fibroblast-populated collagen gel contraction assay, ketotifen reduced the contractile activity of TGFβ-activated fibroblasts. In a murine model of bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis, collagen density and dermal thickness were significantly decreased in ketotifen-treated mice supporting in vitro findings. These results support a novel, direct anti-fibrotic activity of ketotifen, reducing pro-fibrotic phenotypic changes in fibroblasts and reducing collagen fibres in fibrotic mouse skin. Together, these findings suggest novel therapeutic potential and a novel mechanism of action for ketotifen in the context of fibrosis.

Skin characterization of diabetes mellitus revealed by polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography imaging.

Diabetes can lead to the glycation of proteins and dysfunction of skin collagen. Skin lesions are a prevalent clinical symptom of diabetes mellitus (DM). Early diagnosis and assessing the efficacy of treatment for DM are crucial for patient health management. However, performing a non-invasive skin assessment in the early stages of DM is challenging. By using the polarization-sensitive optical coherent tomography (PS-OCT) imaging technique, it is possible to noninvasively assess the skin changes caused by diabetes. The PS-OCT was used to monitor the polarization characteristics of mouse skin at different stages of diabetes. Based on a multi-layered adhesive tape model, we found that the polarization characteristics (retardation, optic axis, and polarization uniformity) were sensitive to the microstructure changes in the samples. Through this method, we observed significant changes in the polarization states of the skin as diabetes progressed. This was in line with the detected microstructure changes in skin collagen fibers using scanning electron microscopy. This study presents a highly useful approach for non-invasive skin assessment of diabetes.

Wound Care Management Using Transparent Film Dressing For Reduced Eyelid Edema Skin Elderly

Introduction: In western and develop our countries chronological 65 years is considered as beginning of aging, Elderly need accompaniment person such as caregiver and especially material in house to prevent risk of fall and causes of infection or inflammation delay healing in elderly lose skin integrity, decrease elastin and collagen difficult to healing wounds and hard to heal category. Method: case study, reporting grandma (76 years old) slipped in bathroom and has a bruise or edema left eyelid she cannot open the eye, wound care management and skin recovery using transparent film dressing as topical therapeutic therapy for released inflammatory phases in wound healing process. Result: Using transparent film dressing twice application (six days) and changing the dressing every 3 days effective for released edema left eyelid. Conclusion: The skin loses elasticity, it becomes fragile of skin, dry skin, decrease of skin integrity like tears, bruises and the other, older adults are at risk getting the wounds. Decreased skin elasticity and collagen are causes of difficult healing of the wound and in many cases delay inflammation or prolong infection, using transparent film dressing for topical therapeutic therapy effective for reduced edema skin elderly in six days. 
 Keywords : Transparent film dressing, Reduced edema, Skin elderly

Biomarker analysis from the phase 2b randomized placebo-controlled trial of riociguat in early diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis.

To examine disease and target engagement biomarkers in the RISE-SSc trial of riociguat in early diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis and their potential to predict the response to treatment. Patients were randomized to riociguat (n = 60) or placebo (n = 61) for 52 weeks. Skin biopsies and plasma/serum samples were obtained at baseline and week 14. Plasma cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) was assessed using radio-immunoassay. α-Smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and skin thickness were determined by immunohistochemistry, mRNA markers of fibrosis by qRT-PCR in skin biopsies, and serum CXC motif chemokine ligand 4 (CXCL-4) and soluble platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (sPECAM-1) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. By week 14, cGMP increased by 94 (78)% with riociguat and 10 (39)% with placebo (P < 0.001, riociguat vs placebo). Serum sPECAM-1 and CXCL-4 decreased with riociguat vs placebo (P = 0.004 and P = 0.008, respectively). There were no differences in skin collagen markers between the two groups. Higher baseline serum sPECAM-1 or the detection of αSMA-positive cells in baseline skin biopsies was associated with a larger reduction of modified Rodnan skin score from baseline at week 52 with riociguat vs placebo (interaction P-values 0.004 and 0.02, respectively). Plasma cGMP increased with riociguat, suggesting engagement with the nitric oxide-soluble guanylate cyclase-cGMP pathway. Riociguat was associated with a significant reduction in sPECAM-1 (an angiogenic biomarker) vs placebo. Elevated sPECAM-1 and the presence of αSMA-positive skin cells may help to identify patients who could benefit from riociguat in terms of skin fibrosis. Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02283762.

Dynamic alterations in M2 macrophage subtypes enhance flap expansion efficiency and tissue regeneration.

Dilatation of soft skin tissue is a common surgical procedure in plastic surgery. M2 macrophages play a critical role in reducing inflammation, promoting epithelial and vascular endothelial cell proliferation, enhancing collagen synthesis in fibroblasts, and orchestrating extracellular matrix remodelling by promoting angiogenesis, epithelialisation, and fibrosis. Macrophages improve flap survival by promoting microangiogenesis and collagen remodelling. However, the role of macrophages in flap expansion has not yet been investigated. Improving the expansion efficiency of dilatation flaps and promoting flap vascularisation are the pressing problems in the fields of plastic and reconstruction surgery. In the present study, we used a mouse model to assess the effects of macrophage activation on skin expansion, thickness, ultrastructure, intradermal angiogenesis, and collagen and cytokine levels. Our findings revealed dynamic changes in the macrophage content and subtypes within the expansion flaps. The enrichment of M2 macrophages significantly enhanced the efficiency of flap expansion, vascularisation, and collagen synthesis. Our findings underline the pivotal role of M2 macrophages in tissue regeneration at the molecular and biochemical levels. These findings provide a basis for improving flap expansion efficiency using M2 macrophages.

A view on the skin-bone axis: unraveling similarities and potential of crosstalk.

The phrase "skin as a mirror of internal medicine," which means that the skin reflects many of the diseases of the internal organs, is a well-known notion. Despite the phenotypic differences between the soft skin and hard bone, the skin and bone are highly associated. Skin and bone consist of fibroblasts and osteoblasts, respectively, which secrete collagen and are involved in synthesis, while Langerhans cells and osteoclasts control turnover. Moreover, the quality and quantity of collagen in the skin and bone may be modified by aging, inflammation, estrogen, diabetes, and glucocorticoids. Skin and bone collagen are pathologically modified by aging, drugs, and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes. The structural similarities between the skin and bone and the crosstalk controlling their mutual pathological effects have led to the advocacy of the skin-bone axis. Thus, the skin may mirror the health of the bones and conversely, the condition of the skin may be reflected in the bones. From the perspective of the skin-bone axis, the similarities between skin and bone anatomy, function, and pathology, as well as the crosstalk between the two, are discussed in this review. A thorough elucidation of the pathways governing the skin-bone axis crosstalk would enhance our understanding of disease pathophysiology, facilitating the development of new diagnostics and therapies for skin collagen-induced bone disease and of new osteoporosis diagnostics and therapies that enhance skin collagen to increase bone quality and density.

Carbon nanotubes induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis through increasing protein levels of Bax and ROS in mouse skin fibroblasts.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are a significant discovery in nanotechnology, with widespread applications in modern technology. However, there are concerns about their potential toxicity, particularly in skin cells. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which CNTs induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in mouse skin fibroblasts. The mice skin fibroblasts were isolated and exposed to two types of CNTs at various concentrations and then analyzed for changes in viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, the levels of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), and lactate production. The results demonstrated that CNTs reduced cell viability and increased ROS production in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the current study found that CNTs increased the protein levels of Bax, a pro-apoptotic protein, in mouse skin fibroblasts. Furthermore, it was observed a significant decrease in lactate production in cells exposed to CNTs. The findings concluded that CNTs have the potential to be toxic substances for skin fibroblasts, which serve as the body's first line of defense. This is evidenced by their ability to increase the production of ROS and the protein levels of Bax, as well as reduce lactic acid levels. As lactic acid has been reported to have beneficial effects on skin collagen production, further studies are needed to fully understand the impact of carbon nanotube exposure on human skin health.

Karakteristik Mutu Sabun Cair Alami Komposit Dengan Penambahan Kolagen Kulit Ikan Tuna (Thunnus albacores)

This study aims to analyze the quality of natural liquid soap extracts of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) and lime (Citrus aurantifolia S.) with the addition of tuna skin collagen (Thunnus albacores), describe the level of preference (hedonic) of panelists towards natural liquid soap and determine the selected product. This study consisted of two stages: the preliminary, which aims to obtain collagen. The main résearch aims to determine the formula of natural liquid soap with collagen concentration treatment of 1%, 3%, and 5% and characterize the quality of natural liquid soap. The parameters tested included collagen yield and chemical characteristics, which were analyzed descriptively, the hedonic value of soap, which was analyzed using Kruskal Wallis, and viscosity of liquid soap designed with RAL and analyzed with ANOVA and Duncan. The selected product was determined using Bayes' test, which was then tested for pH, foam stability, free fatty acids, and Total Plate Count (TPC), which were analyzed descriptively. The results showed that collagen yield is 5,021%, protein content is 76,89%, water content is 4,05%, fat content is 0,57%, and ash content is 0,20%. The results of the Kruskal Wallis test show that natural liquid soap with the addition of collagen has a significant effect on aroma, viscosity, and appearance but has no effect on the impression during its use, the imression after use, and the amount of foam. The ANOVA test shows that collagen has a significant effect on the viscosity of natural liquid soap. The characteristics of the selected natural liquid soap pH 7,41, foam stability 83,33%, free fatty acids 2,5%, and ALT 3,4×103, all of which meet the requirements of SNI (1996).

Evaluation of the anti-aging effects of Zinc-α2-glycoprotein peptide in clinical and in vitro study.

Skin aging, characterized by the deterioration of skin density and elasticity, is a common concern among individuals seeking to maintain a youthful appearance. Zinc-α2-glycoprotein (ZAG) is secreted by various body fluids, and is associated with lipolysis and identified as an atopic dermatitis biomarker. This study evaluated the potential of ZAG peptides, which exert multiple benefits such as anti-aging. We conducted a 4-week clinical trial on patients with noticeable periorbital wrinkles (n=22) using a ZAG peptide-containing product. The effects of the products on skin density, elasticity, and the depth of periorbital wrinkles were evaluated using Cutometer Dual MPA580, Ultrascan, and Antera 3D CS, respectively. The effect of ZAG peptides on UVB-treated keratinocyte cells was evaluated in vitro to understand the mechanisms underlying its effects against impaired skin barrier function, collagen degradation, and senescence. In addition, the effects of ZAG peptides on cell viability and expression of aging and skin barrier-related genes were assessed using cell counting kit assay and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The patients demonstrated improved skin density, elasticity, and reduced periorbital wrinkles. Further, more than 85% patients scored the product as satisfactory regarding anti-aging effects. Furthermore, ZAG peptides reduced SA-β-gal staining, downregulated the senescence-related genes, and upregulated the skin barrier function-related genes in UVB-irradiated keratinocyte cells. Our clinical and in vitro findings showed that ZAG peptides exert anti-aging effects and improve skin barrier functions, suggesting their promising potential as therapeutic agents to combat skin aging and improve skin health.

Fine Wrinkle Improvement through Bioactive Materials That Modulate EDAR and BNC2 Gene Expression.

Skin aging is a multifaceted biological phenomenon influenced by a combination of intrinsic or extrinsic factors. There is an increasing interest in anti-aging materials including components that improve skin wrinkles. Despite the availability of several such wrinkle-improving materials, the demand for ingredients with outstanding efficacy is increasing. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the mechanisms of wrinkle-related genes reported in previous genome-wide association studies (GWASs), identify materials that regulate these genes, and develop an effective anti-wrinkle formula containing the active ingredients that regulate the expression of these genes. We selected two candidate genes, EDAR and BNC2, that are reportedly related to periorbital wrinkles. We investigated their functions in the skin through in vitro experiments using human skin cell lines (keratinocytes and fibroblasts). Moreover, we identified ingredients that regulate the expression of these two genes and confirmed their efficacy through in vitro experiments using the skin cell lines. Finally, we developed a formula containing these ingredients and confirmed that it enhanced dermal collagen in the 3D skin and improved fine wrinkles under the eyes more effectively than retinol in humans, when applied for 8 weeks. Our results are significant and relevant, as we have discovered a special formula for wrinkle improvement with reliable efficacy that surpasses the efficacy of retinol and does not cause side-effects such as skin irritation.