Microcarriers encapsulating COL1A1 mRNA-loaded nanovesicles for skin photoaging treatment

Extracellular vesicles have shown great potential in treating ultraviolet (UV)-induced skin photoaging. However, effective delivery of these bioactive agents to achieve long-term therapeutic effects remains a significant challenge. In this study, we have developed recombinant human collagen (RHC)-based microcarriers loaded with native exosomes as well as Collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) mRNA-encapsulating nanovesicles (Emvs) to treat skin photoaging. The microcarriers mitigated UV-induced cellular senescence in HaCaT cells, as evidenced by reduced oxidative stress, decreased apoptosis, and attenuation of senescence-associated markers. In the animal model, the microcarriers not only attenuated wrinkle formation, but also promoted type I collagen deposition in UV-damaged skin. These results together with the demonstrated biocompatibility highlight the potential of the microcarrier delivery system in photoaging treatment.