Skin photoaging, a disease predominantly brought on by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, has been demonstrated to be prevented by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). This slows down the ageing process of the skin. Changes brought on by photoaging include pigmentation, elasticity loss, wrinkles, and general skin deterioration. Because of their anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and regenerative characteristics, MSCs provide multiple avenues for repair and protection against the consequences of photoaging.
The ways in which MSCs prevent skin photoaging are as follows:
- Diminished Inflammation:
Prolonged exposure to UV light causes the skin to produce inflammatory cytokines, which break down collagen and elastin, which are vital for the structure and suppleness of the skin.
- MSCs have the ability to prevent UV-induced inflammation by secreting anti-inflammatory substances such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and interleukin-10 (IL-10).
- This decrease in inflammation slows the development of wrinkles and drooping skin by protecting collagen and elastin fibres.
- Collagen Synthesis Promotion:
Collagen, the protein that provides skin its structure and rigidity, is deteriorated by UV radiation. Skin thinning and wrinkles are caused by the breakdown of collagen.
- Dermal fibroblasts are stimulated to make more collagen by growth factors secreted by MSCs, including fibroblast growth factor (FGF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
- MSCs assist in regaining the firmness of the skin and lessening the appearance of wrinkles brought on by photoaging by encouraging the production of collagen and blocking its degradation.
- Impact of Antioxidants:
One of the main factors contributing to photoaging is oxidative stress, which is brought on by UV radiation and produces reactive oxygen species (ROS), which harm DNA, proteins, and skin cells.
- By producing antioxidant enzymes that neutralise ROS, such as glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), MSCs produce antioxidative effects.
- By shielding skin cells from oxidative stress, these antioxidants help maintain the skin’s structural integrity and stop DNA damage that might hasten the ageing process.
- Repairing DNA Damage Caused by UV Rays:
Skin cells’ DNA is harmed by UV radiation, which can result in mutations, decreased cell viability, and potentially skin cancer.
- MSCs secrete paracrine substances including microvesicles and exosomes, which are composed of proteins and genetic material (such microRNAs) that can aid in the repair of damaged DNA.
- These elements enhance cellular healing processes, lowering UV-induced cell apoptosis (death) and enhancing the survival and functionality of skin cells.
- The process of Skin Cell Regeneration
MSCs possess the capacity to develop into diverse cell types, such as keratinocytes, which are the principal cells of the epidermis, and fibroblasts, which are accountable for the creation of collagen.
- MSCs support the growth and regeneration of keratinocytes through paracrine signalling, which aids in the preservation of a healthy epidermis.
- This ability to regenerate skin cells can aid in the replacement of ageing or damaged skin cells, encouraging skin renewal and improving photoaged skin’s overall appearance.
- Repair of Skin Barrier Function:
The skin’s natural barrier is weakened by UV radiation, which can result in increased moisture loss and dryness on the skin, two conditions that are indicative of photoaging.
- MSCs increase the synthesis of lipids and proteins that are necessary for preserving the integrity of the stratum corneum, the skin’s outermost layer, hydrating the skin, and lessening the appearance of dryness and rough texture that come with ageing.
- Enhanced Skin Elasticity:
MSCs stimulate the creation of elastin, another important protein in the skin that permits it to stretch and regain its original shape, in addition to collagen.
- In order to offset the drooping and loss of firmness associated with photoaging of the skin, increased elastin synthesis helps restore the skin’s elasticity.
- Diminished Hyperpigmentation
Age spots and hyperpigmentation are caused by UV radiation stimulating melanocytes to produce more melanin.
- By controlling melanocyte activity and lowering the excess melanin produced in reaction to UV exposure, MSCs can control the production of melanin.
- By doing this activity, you can lessen the appearance of uneven skin tone and black patches that are brought on by skin photoaging.
MSC Delivery Techniques for Skin Photoaging:
MSCs can be applied in a few different ways to address skin photoaging:
- Topical Application: You can use MSC-derived skincare products directly to your skin, such as conditioned media and exosome-based serums. Growth factors, cytokines, and antioxidants included in these items aid in skin renewal.
- Injection: When MSCs are directly injected into the dermis, deeper skin regeneration and repair are facilitated, especially in parts of the skin that have been skin photoaged more severely.
- MSCs are occasionally added to dermal fillers to boost their rejuvenating properties and increase the volume and flexibility of the skin photoaged.
Results showed that Because mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may manage inflammation, improve collagen synthesis, protect against oxidative stress, and regenerate injured skin cells, they offer a promising strategy to treating and preventing skin photoaging. As further research is conducted, MSC-based therapies—including topical applications and injections—may gain traction due to their ability to restore skin health and mitigate the negative effects of UV-induced ageing and good for the skin photoaged.