A New TGF-β Mimetic, XEP™-716 Miniprotein™, Exhibiting Regenerative Properties Objectivized by Instrumental...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and cosmetic science.
• Biochemistry of skin aging and rejuvenation.

Background:

• Skin aging presents as macroscopic roughness and microscopic changes like flattened dermal-epidermal junctions and reduced collagen.
• Traditional biopsy methods are limiting; non-invasive techniques are crucial for evaluating skin aging.
• XEP™-716 Miniprotein™, a TGF-β-like miniprotein, was investigated for its rejuvenating potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the rejuvenating effects of XEP™-716 Miniprotein™ on skin.
• To evaluate its in vitro effects on fibroblasts and in vivo clinical effects.
• To assess non-invasive markers of skin aging and rejuvenation.

Main Methods:

• In vitro studies quantified collagen type I, hyaluronic acid, and elastin.
• Clinical evaluation used confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and high-frequency ultrasonography for non-invasive skin structure analysis.
• A double-blind, split-face, placebo-controlled trial assessed skin firmness and elasticity using a cutometer.

Main Results:

• XEP™-716 Miniprotein™ stimulated collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin in vitro, comparable to TGF-β.
• Clinical application led to significant increases in dermal-epidermal junction length, papillae, and collagen fiber perimeters.
• Ultrasonography showed increased dermal density and thickness, with improved skin firmness and elasticity.

Conclusions:

• XEP™-716 Miniprotein™ is a potent ingredient for rejuvenating the dermal-epidermal junction and dermis in mature skin.
• The study confirms its efficacy in reversing key microscopic signs of skin aging.
• Non-invasive methods effectively demonstrated the anti-aging benefits of the miniprotein.