Photoaging, caused by prolonged UVB exposure, leads to structural and biochemical changes in the skin, including wrinkles, collagen degradation, and oxidative stress. This study assessed the efficacy of human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in treating photoaged skin using two different delivery methods: a multi-needle injector and a traditional syringe.
Researchers divided nude mice into three groups: blank (control), model (photoaging induced by UVB irradiation), and experimental (photoaging + ADSC treatment). The experimental group received ADSC injections (1 × 10⁶ cells/120µL) three times over 30 days—one side of the dorsum treated with a syringe and the other with a multi-needle injector.
One month post-treatment, evaluations included wrinkle analysis via high-definition photography, histological examination of skin structure, and biochemical assessments of key biomarkers:
- Skin Structure: ADSC treatment resulted in epidermal thinning and increased dermal collagen thickness.
- Collagen and Elastic Fibers: Improved structural organization was observed following ADSC administration.
- Biomarker Analysis: CD31 and Type I collagen expression increased, while oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased, and antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels significantly increased.
The study found no significant differences in treatment efficacy between the syringe and multi-needle injector methods. However, the multi-needle injector demonstrated practical advantages, including faster resolution of injection site marks (disappearing within 24 hours) and reduced mass formation at injection sites. These findings suggest that while both methods are equally effective, the multi-needle injector may offer additional benefits in terms of precision and reduced tissue disruption.
This research supports the potential of ADSC therapy for mitigating photoaging effects and highlights the importance of optimizing delivery methods for clinical applications.
