Revolutionizing Skin Rejuvenation: The Potential of Microneedles and Amniotic Mesenchymal Stem Cell Metabolite Products
In recent years, the quest for effective skin rejuvenation methods has led researchers to explore innovative delivery systems for therapeutic agents. One promising approach involves the use of microneedles for transdermal delivery of amniotic mesenchymal stem cell metabolite products (AMSC-MP). These products, rich in hydrophilic protein components with high molecular weights, hold great potential for enhancing skin health and appearance. A study conducted by a team of researchers from Universitas Airlangga sought to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics and in vivo efficacy of AMSC-MP-loaded microneedle patches in regenerating skin tissues in UV-aging induced mice.
The researchers developed dissolving microneedle patches using polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinylpyrrolidone, creating formulations with varying AMSC-MP concentrations (30%, 25%, and 20%). These patches were rigorously tested for their morphological, mechanical resistance, and insertion properties. The results revealed that the microneedles displayed a pyramidal shape with sharp tips measuring 500 µm, indicating their readiness for effective skin penetration.
Mechanical testing further demonstrated the efficacy of these microneedle patches. The formulation with the highest concentration of AMSC-MP (MN30) achieved the deepest insertion into Parafilm® M (447.44 ± 37.21 µm), while MN25 reached 717.92 ± 25.40 µm into full-thickness porcine skin. This data suggests that the microneedles can effectively break through the skin barrier, delivering the beneficial components of AMSC-MP directly into the dermal layers.
An ex vivo release study conducted using the Franz cell method indicated a controlled release of epidermal growth factor (EGF) for up to 24 hours, with the MN20 formulation showing the highest deposition rate of 55.94 ± 12.34%. This sustained release profile is essential for maximizing the therapeutic effects of the metabolite product, especially in the context of skin regeneration.
In vivo efficacy was assessed through collagen density scores and fibroblast cell counts, revealing significant improvements in all microneedle formulations compared to control groups. Notably, MN30 exhibited the highest values, indicating its superior effectiveness in stimulating skin regeneration in UV-aged mice. Furthermore, inflammatory cell counts were minimal, suggesting that the microneedle patches were well-tolerated and did not induce significant irritation.
The findings from this study underscore the potential of dissolving microneedle patches as a viable technology for delivering biological anti-aging agents. With their favorable characteristics and ability to efficiently deliver AMSC-MP with minimal irritation, these microneedles could transform the landscape of skin rejuvenation treatments, offering a promising solution for fostering skin regeneration and improving overall human health.
The research team behind this groundbreaking study includes Andang Miatmoko, Berlian Sarasitha Hariawan, Devy Maulidya Cahyani, Qonita Kurnia Anjani, Febri Annuryanti, Rifda Tarimi Octavia, Djoko Legowo, Kusuma Eko Purwantari, Noorma Rosita, Purwati, Ryan F Donnelly, and Dewi Melani Hariyadi, all of whom are affiliated with various departments at Universitas Airlangga. Their collaborative efforts pave the way for future advancements in transdermal drug delivery systems and skin rejuvenation therapies.
