A Ganoderma lucidum Extract Improves Mitochondrial Function in Aging Skin and Promotes Wound Healing

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Aging Research
• Mitochondrial Biology
• Natural Product Therapeutics

Background:

• Aging skin exhibits impaired mitochondrial function, contributing to delayed wound healing.
• Senescent fibroblasts are a key factor in the aging process and wound repair.
• Mitochondrial health is crucial for cellular energy production and oxidative stress management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum extract (GLE) in enhancing mitochondrial function.
• To determine if GLE can promote wound healing in aging skin models.
• To assess the impact of GLE on cellular viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Main Methods:

• Senescent human foreskin fibroblasts (BJ) were treated with varying concentrations of GLE.
• Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to determine safe GLE concentrations and cell viability.
• Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were measured.
• Animal models with injured skin were used to evaluate wound healing, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and ROS levels.

Main Results:

• GLE showed no cytotoxicity between 0-100 µg/mL.
• GLE (50-100 µg/mL) significantly enhanced senescent cell viability.
• 100 µg/mL GLE treatment increased MMP and decreased mitochondrial ROS.
• A hydrogel formulation with 2% GLE accelerated wound healing and modulated ATP and ROS levels in skin tissue.

Conclusions:

• Ganoderma lucidum extract (GLE) effectively improves mitochondrial function in aging skin cells.
• GLE demonstrates therapeutic potential for enhancing wound healing processes in aged skin.
• The study supports the use of GLE as a natural agent to combat age-related skin repair deficits.