Transcriptional Study of Radiofrequency Device Using Experimental Mouse Model

Radiofrequencies have shown efficacy in addressing skin aging. Despite their effectiveness, few studies have explored how radiofrequencies affect the skin transcriptome. This study utilized mouse models divided into two age groups (four-month-old and one-year-old mice) to assess the impact of a radiofrequency device on skin collagen and elastin. A combination of histological analysis, Western blot analysis, real-time PCR and transcriptome sequencing was employed. Histological analysis revealed significant increases in dermis thickness and collagen fiber volume following radiofrequency treatment in both age groups. Quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis indicated that the levels of collagen-related genes and proteins were higher in the four-month-old group. Transcriptome sequencing identified 465 and 1867 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the skin of the 4-month-old mice and 1-year-old mice, respectively. GO and KEGG analyses elucidated the molecular mechanisms, revealing that the interleukin-17 and tumor necrosis factor signaling pathways may play crucial roles in collagen regeneration induced by radiofrequencies. Additionally, decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and increased expression of the transcription factor Fos were identified as potential biomarkers of collagen regeneration. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry staining demonstrated that radiofrequencies activate fibroblasts and inhibit macrophage alternative activation in the skin. This study identifies key genes and biological pathways involved in radiofrequency treatment and provides a foundation for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying collagen regeneration facilitated by radiofrequencies.