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Updated: Apr 30, 2026

Human Ex vivo Wound Model and Whole-Mount Staining Approach to Accurately Evaluate Skin Repair
Published on: February 17, 2021
MicroRNAs in human skin ageing
Mara Mancini1, Anna Maria Lena1, Gaelle Saintigny2
1University of "Tor Vergata", Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Via Montpellier 1, Rome 00133, Italy.
Abstract:
The skin protects humans from the surrounding environment. Tissues undergo continuous renewal throughout an individual's lifetime; however, there is a decline in the regenerative potential of tissue with age. The accumulation of senescent cells over time probably reduces tissue regenerative capacity and contributes to the physiological ageing of the tissue itself. The mechanisms that govern ageing remain unclear and are under intense investigation, and insight could be gained by studying the mechanisms involved in cellular senescence. In vitro, keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts undergo senescence in response to multiple cellular stresses, including the overproduction of reactive oxygen species and the shortening of telomeres, or simply by reaching the end of their replicative potential (i.e., reaching replicative senescence). Recent findings demonstrate that microRNAs play key roles in regulating the balance between a cell's proliferative capacity and replicative senescence. Here, we will focus on the molecular mechanisms regulated by senescence-associated microRNAs and their validated targets in both keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts.
Insights
Cellular senescence, marked by aging cells, reduces tissue repair. MicroRNAs are key regulators of this process in skin cells, offering insights into aging mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Tissue regeneration declines with age, linked to accumulating senescent cells.
- Cellular senescence is a key factor in physiological aging.
- Understanding senescence mechanisms is crucial for aging research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore molecular mechanisms of cellular senescence in skin.
- To investigate the role of microRNAs in regulating skin cell senescence.
- To identify senescence-associated microRNAs and their targets in keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies of keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts.
- Induction of senescence via cellular stress (e.g., oxidative stress, telomere shortening).
- Analysis of microRNA regulation in replicative senescence.
Main Results:
- Senescence in skin cells (keratinocytes, fibroblasts) can be induced by various stresses.
- MicroRNAs play a critical role in balancing cell proliferation and senescence.
- Specific senescence-associated microRNAs and their targets were identified.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs are significant regulators of senescence in skin cells.
- Understanding these microRNA pathways can provide insights into skin aging.
- This research highlights potential targets for interventions in age-related tissue decline.
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