Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Measuring Single-Cell Aging with an Imaging-based Biomarker of Chromatin and Epigenetic Aging
Published on: January 30, 2026
Genomic-driven insights into changes in aging skin
Michael K Robinson1, Robert L Binder, Christopher E M Griffiths
1Global Biotechnology, The Procter & Gamble Company, Miami Valley Innovation Center, Cincinnati, OH 45253, USA. robinson.mk@pg.com
Abstract:
Like all tissues, the skin ages due to the passage of time (chronologic aging). However, skin is also exposed to external insults, such as sunlight. Aging due to chronic sun exposure (photoaging) is characterized clinically by wrinkling, dyspigmentation and other changes. Chronologic and photoaging of skin have been distinguished at the structural, cellular and molecular levels. However, many underlying mechanisms remain a mystery. Recent sequencing of the human genome and development of genome-wide microarray platforms now permit analysis of skin aging at the level of gene expression. Analysis of gene expression differences between young and older sun-protected and sun-exposed skin showed that photoaging produces many similar (but more severe) changes in gene expression versus chronologic aging. However, some changes are unique to one form of aging or the other. Bioinformatics tools also enable an integrated analysis of gene expression themes and pathways, which may provide new insights into the mechanisms of skin aging and possible interventions.
Related Concept Videos
Renewal of Skin Epidermal Stem Cells
The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Mitochondria
Tissue Renewal without Stem Cells
However, failure of such a system...
Pigmentation
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...