Anti-Aging News: Targeting EDAR And BNC2 Gene Expression Via Bioactive Compounds Can Improve Fine Wrinkles

Anti-Aging News: The quest for eternal youth has been a timeless pursuit, and in the realm of skincare, science is making remarkable strides. In the latest breakthrough, researchers at LG Household and Health Care's R & D Center in Seoul, Republic of Korea, have unveiled a groundbreaking study focused on combating skin aging. In particular, their attention was directed towards the intricate world of gene expression, specifically targeting the EDAR and BNC2 genes. The findings covered in this Anti-Aging News report, open up new possibilities in the development of anti-aging formulations that not only rival but surpass the effectiveness of existing solutions.


Effects of EDAR knockdown in skin cells. (a) Wound-healing efficiency after EDAR knockdown in keratinocytes (HaCaT). (b) Representative image from in vitro scratch wound-healing assay; scale bar = 146 μm. Yellow lines represent the wound boundary. (c) Expression of genes related to wound healing in EDAR knockdown cells. Error bars represent the standard error of the mean. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01; student t-test.

Understanding Skin Aging
Skin aging is a complex process influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The skin, comprising the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissues, serves as a protective barrier against external elements. Intrinsic aging is a natural chronological change driven by genetic factors, leading to physiological changes such as impaired wound healing. Extrinsic aging, on the other hand, results from external factors like UV radiation, air pollution, and smoking, manifesting in various visible signs like wrinkles, pigmentation changes, and dryness.
 
Genetic Diversity in Aging
Recent advances in genetic research, particularly through Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWASs), have shed light on the role of genetic diversity, specifically gene polymorphisms, in skin aging. These studies have identified genetic loci associated with various skin characteristics, including wrinkles. Notably, the genes EDAR and BNC2 have been linked to periorbital wrinkles, making them prime candidates for targeted anti-aging interventions.
 
The Significance of EDAR and BNC2 Genes
The EDAR gene, responsible for ectoderm formation, plays a vital role in the wound-healing process. Activation of the EDAR pathway triggers downstream signals, including NF-κB transcription factors, known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. The study revealed that manipulating the EDAR pathway positively influences skin wound healing, suggesting a potential link between EDAR and wrinkle alleviation.
 
BNC2, belonging to the Basonuclin zinc-finger family, is associated with cell survival and oxidative stress response. The study found that decreased BNC2 expression increased cell survival, indicating its potential r ole in protecting against oxidative stress-induced aging. Given the connection between oxidative stress and photoaging, controlling BNC2 expression emerges as a promising strategy in addressing skin aging.
 
In Vitro Experiments
The research team conducted in-depth in vitro experiments to elucidate the functions of EDAR and BNC2 in skin cells, specifically keratinocytes and fibroblasts. EDAR knockdown experiments in keratinocytes demonstrated a significant reduction in wound-healing efficacy, supported by changes in gene expression related to wound healing. Conversely, BNC2 knockdown in fibroblasts showed increased cell survival and enhanced expression of extracellular matrix-related genes, indicating a potential anti-aging effect.
 
Screening for Gene Expression-Regulating Materials
Armed with insights from their in vitro experiments, the researchers set out to identify materials that could effectively regulate the expression of EDAR and BNC2. The screening process included known wound-healing and anti-oxidant materials, considering their potential impact on gene expression. Notable materials like lupeol, sucralfate, cordycepin, oryzanol, phloretin, and chamomile extract were identified for their ability to modulate the target genes.
 
Wound-Healing and Anti-Oxidant Effects
The next phase involved evaluating the wound-healing and anti-oxidant effects of the identified materials. Wound healing assays with lupeol, sucralfate, and cordycepin demonstrated their ability to promote wound healing, correlating with increased EDAR expression. Similarly, materials like oryzanol, phloretin, and chamomile extract exhibited anti-oxidant effects, enhancing cell viability and activating the anti-oxidant system.
 
Collagen Enhancement and Fine Wrinkle Improvement
With promising results from the in vitro experiments, the researchers formulated an LG special blend containing selected ingredients with remarkable efficacy. This LG formula was then put to the test in a 3D skin model, revealing a significant enhancement in dermal collagen content compared to the control formula.
 
Moving from the laboratory to human trials, the researchers conducted a clinical study involving 12 participants. The LG formula was pitted against a 0.1% retinol cream, a gold standard in wrinkle improvement. The results after 8 weeks of application were striking - the LG formula demonstrated a significantly higher wrinkle improvement rate compared to retinol, without causing the skin irritation commonly associated with retinol use.
 
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study represents a pivotal advancement in the field of anti-aging skincare. By targeting the EDAR and BNC2 genes and understanding their roles in skin biology, the researchers have unveiled a formula that not only enhances wound healing and activates the anti-oxidant system but also outperforms traditional ingredients like retinol in fine wrinkle improvement.

The implications of this research are far-reaching, offering a blueprint for the development of future anti-aging products that work at the genetic level. As the beauty industry continues to evolve, the integration of cutting-edge science into skincare formulations holds the promise of unlocking the secrets to maintaining youthful and radiant skin. The LG formula stands as a testament to the potential of combining genetic insights with advanced skincare technology, ushering in a new era in the pursuit of ageless beauty.
 
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed journal: Biomolecules.
https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/14/3/279
 
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