Introduction: Skin as the major barrier between the internal and external environments protects our body from external injuries. Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is majorly responsible for photoaging and is closely associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage. The progression in the field of biological therapies has led to the emergence of new autologous therapies based on growth factors. An autologous topical serum (ATS) based on the plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) technology has also been developed with regenerative properties.
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate this new topical formulation in protecting skin against UVB-induced photodamage using dermal fibroblast cultures and 3D skin models.
Methods: ATS was assessed over the main mechanisms underlying photodamage including oxidative stress, cell viability, DNA damage, cell death, and biosynthetic activity. Three different irradiation protocols were tested.
Results: ATS application showed to significantly reduce free radical production and cell death caused by ultraviolet radiation. It also increased cell viability and promoted the proliferative activity and fibronectin biosynthesis of dermal fibroblasts. DNA double-strand cleavage that occurs after photo-oxidative stress was reduced. Photoexposed 3D explants showed higher levels of metabolic activity and collagen synthesis. Histomorphometric analysis also revealed a reduction in UV-derived edema, hyperkeratosis, and apoptosis and an increase in collagen and cell bioactivity.
Conclusion: This preliminary study suggests that this novel ATS might counteract the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Keywords: Growth factors; Platelet-rich plasma; Skin regeneration; Ultraviolet irradiation.
© 2020 S. Karger AG, Basel.