Gene Analysis of Biostimulators: Poly-L-Lactic Acid Triggers Regeneration While Calcium Hydroxylapatite Induces...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Biomedical Science
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Injectable biostimulators aim to enhance collagen production in aging skin.
• The specific molecular pathways targeted by different biostimulators remain largely uncharacterized.
• This study investigates the gene expression and pathway activation of two common biostimulators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA-SCA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA-R) on gene expression and protein pathways.
• To identify potential biomarkers for aging skin and treatment outcomes.
• To elucidate the distinct mechanisms of action for PLLA-SCA and CaHA-R.

Main Methods:

• A 13-week, randomized, single-center study comparing PLLA-SCA and CaHA-R in subjects with nasolabial fold (NLF) deficiencies.
• Punch biopsies of the NLF were collected at baseline and 90 days for gene expression analysis.
• Bioinformatic analysis using STRING and Reactome databases identified functional pathways and biomarkers.

Main Results:

• PLLA-SCA treatment was associated with increased extracellular matrix components and a reduced inflammatory response, indicating a regenerative pathway.
• CaHA-R treatment elicited a more pronounced inflammatory response.
• The inflammatory response from CaHA-R may potentially impede tissue regeneration.

Conclusions:

• PLLA-SCA demonstrates association with regenerative pathways in the skin.
• CaHA-R did not show evidence of tissue regeneration and was linked to upregulation of pro-inflammatory pathways.
• These findings suggest distinct molecular mechanisms for PLLA-SCA and CaHA-R in treating aging skin.