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Clinical and histological efficacy of a secretion of the mollusk Cryptomphalus aspersa in the treatment of cutaneous photoaging
Abstract
In this article, the authors describe the efficacy of a natural secretion of Cryptomphalus aspersa (SCA) in cutaneous photoaging.This placebo-free, open-label study comprised 15 women exhibiting facial photoaging.Treatment with SCA for 3 months induced a significant reduction in photoaging on the Glogau scale. Silicone replica analysis showed significant improvements in skin roughness and wrinkle depth. Histopathological analysis revealed a marked improvement in both dermal and epidermal architecture, as well as epidermal proliferation and the percentage of cutaneous area covered by microvessels. In summary, treatment with SCA for 3 months resulted in a significant improvement of the clinical and histological signs of photoaging, and these correlated with both subjective and objective assessments of chronic photodamage.
... There were nine RCTs (7 double-blind and 2 single-blind) 30,[32][33][34]37,42,46,48,56,59 and 24 CS studies. 29,31,35,36,[38][39][40][43][44][45]47,[49][50][51][52][53][54][55]57,58,[60][61][62] RCTs enrolled 331 participants (317 completed) with 811 enrolled in the CS studies (748 completed). Placebo control was used in six of the RCTs, 30,[32][33][34]46,48,56 with an active growth factor preparation control in four trials. ...
... All studies showed a statistically significant improvement in one or more of the measured parameters, including shadows due to fine lines/wrinkles, 30 periocular rhytides and coarse crow's feet lines, 48 texture irregularities and wrinkle depth, 29 skin dryness/roughness, and wrinkle depth. 47 Significant improvements in skin elasticity, as measured by a cutometer, was reported in 5 of the 6 studies that evaluated this outcome (1 RCT and 4 CS). ...
Background:
Cosmeceutical preparations containing growth factors (GFs) are widely used for facial rejuvenation.
Objective:
We performed a systematic review to assess the evidence regarding their safety and effectiveness for facial rejuvenation.
Methods:
Electronic databases (Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Scopus) were searched from 2000 to October 2022 for prospective trials and case series assessing topical GF preparations for facial rejuvenation in 10 or more participants.
Results:
Thirty-three studies, including 9 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 24 uncontrolled case series, representing 1180 participants receiving 23 different topical preparations containing GFs met the inclusion criteria and were included. Of the 33 studies, nine used a placebo or active control. The GF preparations were applied twice daily in all except two studies, with a mean treatment duration of 3 months. Based on the investigator's assessment, preparations containing GFs induce a modest improvement in skin texture (median < 50%), fine lines/wrinkles (median < 35%), and overall facial appearance (median < 20%) versus baseline. Participant-assessed improvement was generally higher than investigator-assessed response. Three comparative RCTs showed no statistically significant differences between treatments. Studies were limited by heterogeneity with regard to the source and number of GFs used in the preparations, information about additional ingredients, and lack of standardization in the outcome measures. The preparations were associated with a low risk of adverse events. The persistence of the clinical improvements beyond 6 months is not known.
Conclusions:
Administration of topical preparations containing GFs appears to be effective for facial skin rejuvenation, as demonstrated by the investigator- and participant-reported outcome measures.
... Indeed, in sunscreens formulations, potentially AuNPs can also be used to boost the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) in substitution of the traditional nanosized TiO 2 and ZnO [12,31] besides other advantages by virtue of their light absorption and scattering ability and biocompatible nature [12]. Starting from these considerations, as an update of our previous recent work [32], the AuNPs, synthesized by exploiting the antioxidant properties of Helix aspersa Muller snail secretion (AuNPs-SS), which is currently overturning the cosmetics, biomedicine, and human skincare world [33][34][35][36], were investigated in order to show other interesting properties. More specifically, the main components of the Helix aspersa Muller snail secretion (SS) are used as reducing agents for synthesizing metallic gold (Au 0 ) from a HAuCl 4 solution (Au III ), creating an organic layer around the metallic core of the NPs [32]. ...
... Furthermore, since gold has been historically employed to treat sorrowful inflammatory states (rheumatoid arthritis, for example), and it has also been ascertained how snail slime has anti-inflammatory properties for skin, the promising anti-inflammatory features of AuNPs-SS in Murine Macrophages were tested, obtaining impressive results [32]. Starting from this, and looking at the overall literature published about the use of snail slime [33,[35][36][37][38], in a period in which cosmetic dermatology and beauty care are more and more important, the preliminary results of this paper show first how AuNPs obtained by means of SS not only can be used for wound healing and antiinflammatory treatments but also as a possible sunscreen, tyrosinase inhibitor and antioxidant for potential cosmetic applications. Furthermore, the relative cheapness (the cost has been evaluated being 0.20 € per mg) of the green-synthesized AuNPs is one of the positive characteristics of this work because it respects the Green Economy principles. ...
Due to their properties, snail slime-based products have been appreciated and used worldwide. So, as an alternative and innovative use of snail slime, it was adopted to induce gold nanoparticles' formation, conferring them interesting properties. By a simple, one-pot, and eco-friendly approach, 14 ± 6 nm wide hybrid gold nanoparticles, having an inorganic metallic core decorated by the slime's main components, were obtained. Among their several properties, their antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibition activity were investigated through the DPPH and ABTS and the tyrosinase assays, respectively. After assessing their non-cytotoxicity in our previous work, the results revealed positive responses, enabling their use as a potential novel multifunctional ingredient in cosmetics. Interestingly, the gold nanoparticle photostability, investigated by means of a solar simulator lamp, suggests using them in commercial cosmetic sunscreen products as a potential alternative to the commonly used inorganic sunscreen ingredients. The theoretical Sun Protection Factor was evaluated, obtaining values in the range 0-12. The proposed environmentally friendly and cost-effective protocol for nanoparticle synthesis, following the principles of Green Chemistry, opens a hugely attractive space toward the study of snail slime-based gold nanoparticles as a potential multipurpose platform in cosmetics.
... The snail slime (mucus) has many functions in the animal, such as adhesive, emollient, moisturizing, lubricant, and defense [4][5][6][7]. Recently, snail slimes have been applied in human medical and cosmetics [8][9][10][11]. Studies have shown that snail mucus exhibits various biological activities, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and antitumoral activities [10,12,13]. In addition, many compounds have been found in snail mucus, such as allantoin, hyaluronic acid, peptides and proteins [3,4,14]. ...
... It has been shown that snail mucus from H. aspersa could inhibit the tyrosinase activity and melanin production on cell lines [11,14]. In other snails, the extracts from different parts showed an antioxidant activity and the presence of many bioactive compounds [38][39][40][41]. ...
Objective
Snails secrete different types of mucus that serve several functions, and are increasingly being exploited for medical and cosmetic applications. In this study, we explored the protein pattern and compared the biological properties of the mucus secreted from the mantle collar and foot of two snail species, Lissachatina fulica and Hemiplecta distincta .
Result
Protein profile showed a different pattern between the two species and between the two secretory parts. The mantle-specific protein bands were further characterized and among them was an antibacterial protein, achacin. Accordingly, the mucus from the mantle exhibited the higher antibacterial activity than that from the foot in both snail species. The mucus from H. distincta , first reported here, also showed antibacterial properties, but with a lower activity compared to that for L. fulica . Snail mucus also exhibited anti-tyrosinase activity and antioxidant activity but with no significant difference between the foot and mantle mucus. These results indicate some different protein compositions and biological activities of snail slime from the mantle and foot, which might be associated with their specific functions in the animal and are useful for medical applications.
... The snail slime (mucus) has many functions in the animal, such as adhesive, emollient, moisturizing, lubricant, and defense [4][5][6][7]. Recently, snail slimes have been applied in human medical and cosmetics [8][9][10][11]. Studies have shown that snail mucus exhibits various biological activities, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and antitumoral activities [10,12,13]. In addition, many compounds have been found in snail mucus, such as allantoin, hyaluronic acid, peptides and proteins [3,4,14]. ...
... It has been shown that snail mucus from H. aspersa could inhibit the tyrosinase activity and melanin production on cell lines [11,14]. In other snails, the extracts from different parts showed an antioxidant activity and the presence of many bioactive compounds [38][39][40][41]. ...
Objective: Snails secrete different types of mucus that serve several functions, and are increasingly being exploited for medical and cosmetic applications. In this study, we explored the protein pattern and compared the biological properties of the mucus secreted from the mantle collar and foot of two snail species, Lissachatina fulica and Hemiplecta distincta.
Result: Protein profile showed a different pattern between the two species and between the two secretory parts. The mantle-specific protein bands were further characterized and among them was an antibacterial protein, achacin. Accordingly, the mucus from the mantle exhibited the higher antibacterial activity than that from the foot in both snail species. The mucus from H. distincta, first reported here, also showed antibacterial properties, but with a lower activity compared to that for L. fulica. Snail mucus also exhibited anti-tyrosinase activity and antioxidant activity but with no significant difference between the foot and mantle mucus. These results indicate some different protein compositions and biological activities of snail slime from the mantle and foot, which might be associated with their specific functions in the animal and are useful for medical applications.
... It has been also reported that Helix mucus components stimulated the formation of collagen, elastin and dermal components that repair the signs of photoaging and minimized the damage generated by free radicals [17,18]. The efficacy of snail secretion has been proved by in vitro as well as by clinical studies [19,20]. ...
... Therefore, the antimelanogenic effects of SS on B16F10 cells could be attributed to its inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity. These results suggest that SS could be beneficial against skin photoaging and are in accordance with clinical study which showed that SCA treatment decreases irregular pigmentation by 40% [20]. ...
... Clinical assessment of the effects of SCA has showed that topical treatment with SCA reverse some of the features of photoaging, increasing skin thickness and reducing roughness and wrinkle depth, likely due to its antioxidant and matrixremodeling effects [12]. On one of the last studies published, (a multicenter, double-blind and randomized study), 25 patients with moderate to severe facial photodamage were treated with SCA on one side of the face and placebo on the contralateral side for 12 weeks. ...
... Brieva et al. [36] demonstrated that SCA significantly inhibited MMP-1 and MMP-2 expression, suggesting that limitation of MMP expression contributes to its regenerative properties. The clinical studies performed with SCA, as only treatment, demonstrated that this ingredient is able to increases skin thickness and reduces the elastosis, as showed the histological study, and reduces roughness and wrinkle depth, after 3 month of treatment [12,13]. Even more, SCA demonstrated to improve the clinical signs of aging on the neck and chest [37]. ...
... As it has been indicated above, regenerative properties of the skin decrease with age and, thus, the search for substances that minimize cutaneous aging has increased in the last few years [16,17]. Previous works have proved that a secretion of the mollusc Cryptomphalus aspersa (SCA) has antioxidant and skin regeneration properties promoting, for instance, the proliferation, migration, and survival of keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts [18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25]. ...
... Skin remodeling and underlying processes, such as migration, adhesion, and cell survival, are reduced as a result of skin aging. Several products from a very diverse origin, such as the secretion of mollusc Cryptomphalus aspersa (SCA), have been described to have regenerative properties as they can help to maintain the skin balance and delay progressive degeneration [18][19][20]23,24] and also for specific skin damage, including burns [21,22]. Actually, the effects of the new compound e-CAF from egg extracts of C. aspersa and another product derived from C. aspersa secretion, SCA, which promotes better organization of the main skin cells' lineages, keratinocytes, and fibroblasts, are known [25]. ...
The aim of this study was to test, by an in vitro approach, whether a natural extract derived from eggs of the mollusc Cryptomphalus aspersa (e-CAF) that seems to present regenerative properties, can enhance the mobilization of human hair dermal papilla cells (HHDPCs) and play a role on tissue repair and regeneration. We have tested HHDPCs proliferation by the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium-bromide (MTT) assay; cell migration by using a wound healing assay, as well as the modulation of the expression of cytoskeletal (F-actin and vimentin) and cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) (vinculin and P-FAK) proteins. We also explored whether e-CAF could lead HHDPCs to keratinocytes and/or fibroblasts by evaluating the expression of specific markers. We have compared these e-CAF effects with those induced by TGFβ1, implicated in regulation of cell proliferation and migration. e-CAF promotes proliferation and migration of HHDPCs cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner; it also increases the migratory behavior and the expression of adhesion molecules. These results support the fact that e-CAF could play a role on skin regeneration and be used for the prevention or repair of damaged tissue, either due to external causes or as a result of cutaneous aging.
... The global use of land snail mucus is still limited to a few species, such as Helix aspersa (Cornu aspersum), Lissachatina fulica, and Hemiplecta distincta [1]. The mucus of the land snail H. aspersa can inhibit tyrosinase activity and melanin production in cell lines [14]. H. distincta, a land snail from Thailand, also produces mucus which exhibits anti-tyrosinase as well as antioxidant activity [15]. ...
... The global use of land snail mucus is still limited to a few species, such as Helix aspersa (Cornu aspersum), Lissachatina fulica, and Hemiplecta distincta [1]. The mucus of the land snail H. aspersa can inhibit tyrosinase activity and melanin production in cell lines [14]. H. distincta, a land snail from Thailand, also produces mucus which exhibits anti-tyrosinase as well as antioxidant activity [15]. ...
Background
Mucus from several species of snails has been known to contain bioactive compounds such as anti-tyrosinase and anti-elastase. These two compounds contribute as whitening agents and anti-wrinkle agents, respectively. Among the many land snail species in Indonesia, only one species, Lissachatina fulica , has been analyzed for its bioactive compound. This species is an invasive alien species and non-native to Indonesia. In this study, we aim to unravel the bioactive compounds in one Indonesian native species, Hemiplecta humphreysiana .
Objective
To identify bioactive compounds in the mucus of H. humphreysiana using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry quadrupole time-of-flight (UPLC-MS/MS QTOF) and to evaluate their potential as anti-tyrosinase and anti-elastase agents using molecular docking.
Materials and methods
Carbonate buffer at pH 9.4 was used to extract mucus from H. humphreysiana snails. Lyophilized mucus samples were dissolved in methanol and dichloromethane solvents, filtered, and injected into a UPLC-MS/MS instrument. The data analysis was conducted using MassLynx software. The molecular formulas and spectra were compared with databases such as ChemSpider, PubChem, MassBank, Human Metabolome Database, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to obtain the metabolomic profile of the sample. Bioactive metabolites were evaluated for ligand–protein interactions using a molecular docking approach with AutoDock tools and AutoDock Vina. Results were visualized in two-dimensional and three-dimensional using Discovery Studio and analyzed for bond affinity energy. Scoring was conducted to identify potential inhibitors of tyrosinase or elastase.
Results and conclusion
A total of bioactive compounds were identified from the mucus of H. humphreysiana Lea, 1840. Twenty compounds were identified as suspected compounds, and 13 were confirmed. Based on the bioavailability and toxicity characteristics, analysis of affinity energy, and ligand–receptor interaction, about 13 compounds can inhibit tyrosinase, and 12 compounds can inhibit elastase. Indoleacrylic acid and withanone were determined to be lead compounds with anti-tyrosinase activity, while withanone and 7-[2-(1-adamantyl)-2-oxoethyl]-1,3-dimethyl-8-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl) purine-2,6-dione were identified as lead compounds as anti-elastase agents. Metabolomic profiling using UPLC-MS/MS QTOF can identify bioactive compounds for use as test ligands in molecular docking. The presence of lead compounds in H. humphreysiana mucus to inhibit tyrosinase and elastase shows its potential as a whitening and anti-wrinkle agent, respectively. This study initiates the bioprospecting of H. humphreysiana mucus as nutricosmeceuticals for future research.
... Morphometric analysis of patients' skin before treatments and 3 months after therapy showed a statistically significant reduction in epidermal thickness in each analyzed group A, B, and C. Similar results were obtained by Tribo et al. (2009) [34]. Our results suggest that micro-needle mesotherapy improves skin condition when considering the morphometry of the epidermis. ...
Skin aging is associated with both intrinsic and extrinsic aging, with extrinsic aging caused by environmental factors and overlaying the effects of chronological aging. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of preparations containing Helix aspersa snail mucus on skin regeneration with photoaging features. Before and 3 months after the series of treatments, skin biopsy specimens from the right preauricular region of the face were taken from six women. Histological, morphometric, and immunohistochemical analyses were performed. Positive changes, indicating a reduction in photoaging related to the reduction in epidermis thickness 3 months after the end of the treatments, were noted in each group. A statistically significant increase in the thickness of the collagen fiber bundles was also observed in the patients 3 months after a series of micro-needle mesotherapy treatments with snail mucus and 0.9% NaCl. There was a significant increase in the immuno-expression of Ki-67 and PCNA in the dermis. The aforementioned significance applies to patients in whom snail mucus was introduced with the use of micro-needle mesotherapy and needle-free mesotherapy. Moreover, a statistically significant increased area with the immunoexpression of MMP-2 in the dermis was observed in the above-mentioned groups of patients, who were treated with the preparation containing snail filtrate. The results of the study suggest that the use of snail mucus preparations for skincare, as well as its introduction by micro-needle and needleless mesotherapy, had a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin.
... Studies have proven its influence on the limitation of the growth of E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus [49][50][51] as well as Streptococcus sp [52]. It also has been shown that snail mucus has an anti-ageing effect on the skin [53,54] and shows regenerative, anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties [55][56][57]. Its antioxidant properties are also known [58]. ...
Simple Summary
Edible snails are a good source of easily digestible nutrients. They are easy to breed and their farming is more environmentally friendly than traditional livestock: they need little space, use less feed per kg of growth, and emit significantly less greenhouse gases. This review aims to present the most important issues related to the breeding of edible snails in European conditions: their importance, maintaining systems, the value of meat and caviar, and the feed used during the animals’ rearing and fattening period.
Abstract
The human population is growing; food production is becoming insufficient, and the growing awareness of the negative impact of traditional animal husbandry on the environment means that the search for alternative methods of providing animal protein is continuously underway. The breeding of edible snails seems to be a promising option. The most popular species of edible snails in Europe include the brown garden snail Cornu aspersum (Müller, 1774) (previously divided into two subspecies: Cornu aspersum aspersum (Müller, 1774) and Cornu aspersum maxima (Taylor, 1883)), as well as the Roman Snail—Helix pomatia Linnaeus, 1758. These animals are highly productive, require relatively little space, are easy to breed and their maintenance does not require large financial outlays. This review focuses on the prospects of food snail farming in Europe. It discusses the living conditions, the nutritional value of the snails’ meat, and the way of feeding the animals, paying particular attention to issues still not scientifically resolved, such as the need for micro and macro elements, as well as fat and carbohydrates.
... For example, Conte et al. 23 reported that the pharmacokinetics of snail components does not permit their optimal absorption, so the combined use of AuNPs, well-known antibacterial agents, and SS could be a functional ingredient in the treatment of acne and in biotechnology, or used as a preservative in cosmetic product formulation. Considering the overall published literature, 21,22,[24][25][26][27] although interesting information can be found on the SS use, the presence of fragmentary and not detailed investigations suggests that this research field has not been extensively explored yet. In a time when cosmetic dermatology and beauty care are increasingly influential, 28,29 we intend to discuss the biogenic formation of AuNPs-SS by characterizing them and by using as accelerating wound healing and anti-inflammatory agents in biomedicine. ...
In this work, for the first time, snail slime from garden snails "Helix Aspersa Müller", has been used to induce the formation of eco-friendly gold nanoparticles (AuNPs-SS) suitable for biomedical applications. An AuNPs-SS comprehensive investigation was performed and AuNPs with an average particle size of 14 ± 6 nm were observed, stabilized by a slime snail-based organic layer. Indeed, as recognized in high-resolution MALDI-MS analyses, and corroborated by FESEM, UV-Vis, ATR-FTIR, and XPS results, it was possible to assess the main presence of peptides and amino acids as the main components of the slime, that, combined with the AuNPs confers on them interesting properties. More specifically, we tested, in vitro, the AuNPs-SS safety in human keratinocytes and their potential effect on wound healing as well as their anti-inflammatory properties in murine macrophages. Moreover, the AuNPs-SS treatment resulted in a significant increase of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), essential for keratinocyte adhesion, spreading, and migration, together with the reduction of LPS-induced IL1-β and IL-6 cytokine levels, and completely abrogated the synthesis of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).
... [23] reported that the pharmacokinetics of snail components do not permit their optimal absorption, so the combined use of AuNPs, well-known antibacterial agents, and SS could be a functional ingredient in the treatment of acne and in biotechnology, or used as a preservative in cosmetic products formulation. Considering the overall literature published, [21,22,[24][25][26][27] although interesting information can be found on the SS use, the presence of fragmentary and not detailed investigations suggests that this research field has not been extensively explored yet. In a time when cosmetic dermatology and beauty care are increasingly influential, [28,29] we intend to discuss the biogenic formation of AuNPs-SS by characterizing them and by applying as accelerating wound healing and anti-inflammatory agents in biomedicine. ...
... 20,22 The significant improvement in wrinkles in both hemifaces compared to baseline and the significantly greater improvement with SCA vs vehicle show that wrinkle reduction is due mainly to the effect of the fractionated laser and secondarily to the synergistic effect of the use of SCA during the entire treatment period. The growth factors and glycosaminoglycans present in the active ingredient SCA have shown in previously pub-lished studies this dermal stimulus, which induces improvement in the area affected by wrinkles.24 ...
Introduction:
The main purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the application of a cosmetic treatment based on the secretion of Cryptomphalus aspersa (SCA) enhances the clinical results, tolerance, and skin regeneration after nonablative laser treatment in patients with moderate photoaging.
Methods:
Randomized, double-blind, split-face trial in 20 patients with moderate aging. Two sessions with fractional nonablative laser were performed, and the cosmetic treatments (SCA 40% on one hemiface and vehicle on the other) were applied immediately after laser session and daily during the study (28 days). Tewameter, Cutometer, Visioscan, VisioFace, photography, dermoscopy, and clinical evaluation were assessed. Side effects were also evaluated.
Results:
A significant decrease in the density of microcolumns (25%, 71%, 32%, and 61% less density, respectively, at T3 P = 0.008, T7 P = 0.002, T22 P < 0.001, and T24 P < 0.001) was observed on the side treated with SCA compared to the vehicle-treated side. Cutaneous elasticity, area of wrinkles, and hydration on the SCA-treated side also showed a significant improvement compared to the vehicle-treated side. Both the researcher and patients observed a significant improvement on the side treated with SCA compared to the vehicle-treated side. Significantly fewer side effects (erythema, burning, and dryness) were also detected.
Conclusion:
A cosmetic product with SCA 40% applied immediately after laser and for a period thereafter enhances and accelerates repair of damage produced by the laser and significantly reduces related adverse effects. In addition, SCA treatment could improve clinical results. In conclusion, we suggest that SCA enhances the effectiveness of laser in the treatment of cutaneous aging.
... I n recent years, skin care products infused with snail slime have become popular. The efficacy of snail secretion in wound healing has been proven both in vitro and by clinical studies (1,2). It was reported that snail mucus components are able to stimulate collagen and elastin formation in the skin and to improve the protection against photoaging and free radical-mediated damage (3,4). ...
This report describes the draft genome sequence of Weissella viridescens UCO-SMC3, isolated from Helix aspersa Müller slime. The reads were generated by a whole-genome sequencing (WGS) strategy on an Illumina MiSeq sequencer and were assembled into contigs with a total estimated size of 1,612,814 bp. A total of 2,455 genes were predicted, including 2,301 protein-coding sequences. The draft genome sequence of W. viridescens UCO-SMC3 will be useful for further studies of specific genetic features and for understanding the mechanisms of its beneficial properties in the skin.
... Związki te są to silnie kwasowe polisacharydy, takie jak kwas hialuronowy, siarczan chondroityny, siarczan dermatanu, siarczan heparanu i heparyna. [20,[34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41][42]. Na ogół GAG w organizmach kręgowców pełnią różnorodne funkcje: od organizowania składników tkanki łącznej do regulowania wzrostu komórek, oddziaływania między komórkami i między komórkami, a matrix. ...
Snails are the most abundant representatives of the mollusc class.
Due to the composition of their secretions as well as the organisms
themselves, they are used in the food and cosmetics industry. For
cosmetic products in the EU, snail cosmetic products have been
approved such as: Snail Secretion Filtrate, Snail Egg Extract, Snail Extract,
Hydrolyzed Snail Body Extract, Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate
Ferment Filtrate. Snail cosmetic raw materials include active ingredients
such as collagen, elastin, allantoin, glycolic acid as well as mucins and
glycosaminoglycans. The literature also shows that raw materials from
snails exhibit documented moisturaizing and antiradical properties
used in antiage cosmetics.
... In this regard, natural ingredients derived from the mollusk Cryptomphalus aspersa have been developed and assessed as regenerative agents for cutaneous tissue [16][17][18][19][20]. Its secretion (SCA) has been demonstrated to possess antioxidant and skin regenerative properties, preserving the survival of keratinocytes and fibroblasts and ECM dynamics, while promoting their mitogenic and motogenic activities during wound healing [21][22][23][24][25][26][27]. Moreover, a novel ingredient derived from an extract of the eggs of C. aspersa (e-CAF) has been recently developed, showing promising effects for the treatment of skin aging. ...
Introduction
Regeneration therapy using adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) has been proposed in the treatment of skin aging. Myofibroblast plays a relevant role in the organization of the extracellular matrix of the damaged skin. A natural extract was derived from the eggs of the mollusk Cryptomphalus aspersa (e-CAF) that seems to play a role on skin repair. We have investigated the potential effects of e-CAF in the differentiation of ADSC.
Materials and methods
ADSC were cultured in the absence or presence of e-CAF (50 and 200 μg/mL) for 24 hours and 7 days. Real-time cell assay, morphological, immunofluorescence, and RT-PCR techniques were used to evaluate the cell culture and expression of αSMA, collagen I, and tropoelastin.
Results
e-CAF induced significant reduction in the rate of growth of ADSC from 24 hours to 7 days of culture. e-CAF also induced bigger sizes, higher levels of cytoplasmic refringence and complexity, and a more polyhedral morphological changes in the cultured ADSC. The protein and mRNA expression of αSMA was significantly increased in e-CAF-cultured ADSC.
Conclusion
e-CAF promotes ADSC differentiation to myofibroblasts and should be considered as a potential agent for the prevention and treatment of skin aging.
... 53,54 SCA is found in commercially available products used to treat the signs of photoaging and at least one published study has demonstrated its efficacy in the treatment of periocular wrinkles. 55 DNA repair liposomes have been shown to reduce the incidence of UV-induced skin cancer in mice, 56 although to date, there are no controlled clinical studies in humans demonstrating the same. Despite the lack of clinical studies, incorporation of these compounds into antiaging products is becoming increasingly popular, and the author is aware of some ongoing studies involving some of the commercially available products. ...
This article discusses adjunctive skin care of the brow and periorbital region. Anatomic properties of eyelid skin require skin care products specifically suited to this area. Common patient concerns, including wrinkles, infraorbital dark circles, puffiness, and thinning eyebrows and eyelashes, are addressed in the context of contributing anatomic and physiologic factors and the classes of and/or specific ingredients targeting these problems.
Radiotherapy (RT) is a technique widely used in oncology, acquiring special prominence in head and neck cancer (HNC). RT of HNC may be associated with secondary effects including skin reaction, being dermatitis the most common radio-induced side effect during treatment.
The use of a wide variety of agents is reported to handle skin toxicity. The aim of the present work is to evaluate the different level-concentration of Snail Cryptomphalus Aspersa (SCA) that best protect from radiation-induced radiodermatitis in HNC.
We performed a single institutional pilot study to assess the skin toxicity with 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% SCA concentration during RT treatment and 1 and 3 months after the treatment finished according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) scoring. A total of 72 patients with HNC diagnosis who received RT with/without Chemotherapy (Ch) between January of 2018 and June of 2020 were assessed. Radiodermatitis grade was stastistically correlated with the SCA level-concentration and with the influence of extranodal extension status (ENE).
A reduction in the rate of grade ≥ II patients’ dermatitis was dependent on SCA level-concentration. We found that with higher SCA level-concentration (10 and 15%, patients had 34 and 38% grade ≥ II respectively), this was less than with 0 and 5% SCA level-concentration where a 58% radiodermatitis grade ≥ II was found by Cox regression analysis; p = 0.017 and p = 0.045 respectively.
We could conclude that the application of a 10–15% SCA level-concentration after adjusting by ENE, was the best concentration to reduce the rate of grade ≥ II radiodermatitis.
The snail mucus provides several functions and is increasingly being exploited for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. This study aimed to determine the chemical profile of two snail mucus extracts: the garden snail ( Helix aspersa ) and the desert snail ( Eremina desertorum ). In addition, it elucidates the antityrosinase, antioxidant, and anticancer activities against the human cancer cell line epithelioid carcinoma (Hela). The mucus was extracted from the pedal glands of garden snails ( H. aspersa ) and desert snails ( E. desertorum ). 2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl assay and the content of catalase, glutathione‐ S ‐transferase, superoxide dismutase, and reduced glutathione were utilized to assess the antioxidative screening activity of the mucus extracts. Besides a tyrosinase inhibitor assay, anticancer activity on cervical cancer cells (Hela) was studied. Additionally, the two mucus samples' total protein, total lipid, fatty acid, and amino acid profiles were compared. The mucus from both snails exhibited antioxidant activity. E. desertorum is more effective in inhibiting tyrosinase activity and has better scavenging activity than H. aspersa mucus extract. Both extracts revealed inhibitory activity against Hela cells, with insignificant differences. Moreover, the results indicated higher protein, lipids, and fatty acids mucus content of E. desertorum extract than those of H. aspersa mucus extract. Both snail slimes' obtained different biological activities, and amino acid contents could be related to their specific functions and beneficial for medical applications, especially antihyperpigmentation.
Background:
Ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser (AFCO2) resurfacing causes transient skin barrier disruption characterized by decreased skin hydration and increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Snail Soothing and Repairing (SSR) cream, containing several glycoproteins with potential antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, may benefit skin hydration promotion after the laser treatment.
Objective:
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of SSR cream in skin hydration promotion after AFCO2 resurfacing.
Method:
The study was a double-blinded, split-face, placebo-controlled trial in participants aged 18-50 years with atrophic acne scars on both cheeks. After AFCO2 resurfacing, participants applied the product or placebo on either cheek twice daily for 14 days. Corneometry, TEWL, colorimetry, and clinical assessments (edema, erythema, crusting, pruritus, and tightness score) were evaluated at baseline, day 7, and day 14 after AFCO2 resurfacing.
Results:
From 22 participants in the study, the SSR cream-treated sides showed significantly higher corneometry levels than placebo-treated sides at day 14 (p = 0.033), while TEWL and colorimetry levels were not different at any study visits. Pruritus and tightness scores of the SSR side were lower, but not significant, than the placebo. Other clinical assessments (edema, erythema, and crusting) showed similar results. No significant adverse events took place.
Conclusion:
The SSR cream significantly improved skin hydration, highlighting skin barrier restoration after AFCO2 resurfacing, with a good safety profile.
Background:
Cosmeceuticals are commonly used in skincare regimens to maintain healthy skin and improve visible signs of aging. In recent years, South Korean skincare has gained prominence in the global beauty industry by introducing innovative cosmeceutical products and aesthetic trends.
Objectives:
To describe the global impact of Korean skincare and to review the current research evidence for bioactive ingredients commonly found in Korean cosmeceuticals.
Methods:
A review of the biomedical literature was conducted using PubMed to identify laboratory, animal, and clinical studies that evaluated the biological properties and potential dermatologic uses of ingredients found in Korean cosmeceuticals.
Results:
Bioactive ingredients in Korean cosmeceutical products are increasingly undergoing scientific validation and are derived from various sources including animals (eg, bee venom and snail mucin), plants (eg, dragon's blood and tiger grass extract), and biotechnology (eg, synthetic snake venom). Their bioactive components and pharmacologic activities have been shown to provide dermatologic benefits with potential applications for skin rejuvenation, photoprotection, wound healing, and more.
Conclusion:
Further research studies are warranted to elucidate any biological or therapeutic mechanisms of action of these ingredients, which may translate into clinical practice. With the rising public awareness and interest in Korean cosmeceuticals, patients may seek advice from dermatologists about how to incorporate these bioactive ingredients into their skincare regimens to improve skin health and aesthetics.
Growth factors (GFs) are chemical messengers that regulate specific cellular activities such as cell proliferation and formation of the extracellular matrix. GFs may be derived from a variety of sources, including animals.
Evaluate the safety and efficacy of a topical antiphotoaging product containing secretions of the snail Cryptomphalus aspersa (SCA) for the improvement of facial rhytides.
MATERIALS and
This was a 2-center, double-blind, randomized, 14-week study in which 25 patients with moderate to severe facial photodamage were treated with an emulsion (with 8% SCA) and liquid serum (with 40% SCA) on one side of the face and placebo on the contralateral side for 12 weeks. Silicone skin impressions of periocular rhytides were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. Patient and physician assessments were also performed at 8, 12, and 14 weeks.
Periocular rhytides on the active ingredient side showed significant improvement after 12 weeks (P=.03) and improved texture to a greater degree than placebo at 8 and 12 weeks, as well as 2 weeks after discontinuing the product (14 weeks).
Daily application of topical products containing SCA proved effective and well tolerated for improvement in coarse periocular rhytides and fine facial rhytides. Subjects noted a significant degree of improvement in fines lines at the 8-week time point on the SCA-treated side (P≤.05) but did not report a significant difference in the quality of their skin.
J Drugs Dermatol. 2013;12(4):453-457.
Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) present in sunlight is a major environmental factor capable of affecting human health and well being. The organ primarily affected by UVR is the skin, which is composed of a variety of different cell types. Here, UVR is needed for production of active vitamin D as well as producing undesirable effects such as sunburn, premature cutaneous photoaging, and promoting skin cancer development. Depending on the radiation dose, UVR influences virtually every cutaneous cell type investigated differently. Since the end of the nineteenth century, sun exposure has been known to induce skin cancer, which is now the human malignancy with the most rapidly increasing incidence. In several experimental models, mid-range UVR has been demonstrated to be the major cause of UV-induced cutaneous tumors. The stratospheric ozone layer protecting the terrestrial surface from higher quantum energy solar radiation is being damaged by industrial activities resulting in the possibility of increased UVR exposure in the future. Investigations in the field of experimental dermatology have shown that within the skin an immunosurveillance system exists that may be able to detect incipient neoplasms and to elicit a host responses against it. This article reviews the literature on studies designed to investigate the effects of UVR on cutaneous cellular components, with special focus on the immune system within the skin and the development of UV-induced cancer.
A screen for natural products bearing pharmacological properties has yielded a secretion of the mollusk Cryptomphalus aspersa (SCA), which possesses skin-regenerative properties. In this report, we outline some of the cellular and molecular effects underlying this observation. First, we found that SCA contained antioxidant SOD and GST activities. In addition, SCA stimulated fibroblast proliferation and rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton. Additional mechanisms involved in the regenerative effect of SCA included the stimulation of extracellular matrix assembly and the regulation of metalloproteinase activities. Together, these effects provide an array of molecular mechanisms underlying SCA-induced cellular regeneration and postulate its use in regeneration of wounded tissue.
The history and origin of the science of photobiology are reviewed. Interest in the biologic effects of light gradually increased, beginning with the discovery of ultraviolet and infrared radiation early in the 19th century. The basis of experimental photobiology was laid by the studies of Raab and Tappeiner on photodynamic action and the early uses of phototherapy by Finsen and Dorno. The discovery of the association of porphyrins with some light-related skin diseases and of the capability of chemical agents such as coal tar and bergamot to induce phototoxic contact dermatitis resulted in a flurry of clinical investigations leading to better understanding of the processes of phototoxicity and photoallergy. The early epidemiologic studies of Unna and Dubreuilh relating solar radiation exposure to the formation of actinic keratoses and non-melanoma skin cancer were experimentally confirmed in animals by Findlay, Roffo, and Blum. In the most recent quarter century (1950-1975), cellular and molecular photobiology has been refined. The studies on photochemistry of nucleic acid and of damage and repair mechanisms in DNA have set the stage for understanding the basic processes of biologic effects of light and promise the development of useful applications of specifically directed phototherapy and prevention of such light-induced diseases as skin cancer.
Computerized image analysis of silicone replicas, a reproducible, objective technique for measuring skin topography, was used in addition to clinical measures in two multicenter, double-blind, randomized, controlled studies of tretinoin emollient cream, a new formulation for treating photodamaged skin. Previously, the skin replica technique had been successfully used in a pilot study of tretinoin 0.05% cream by one investigator. In the present studies, subjects treated for 24 weeks with tretinoin emollient 0.05% cream consistently showed more improvement in skin topography than did vehicle-treated patients. A 0.01% concentration of tretinoin emollient cream also improved skin topography to a greater extent than the vehicle, while the lowest concentration tested (0.001%) showed little difference from vehicle. These results, reflecting a smoothening of the skin surface in tretinoin emollient cream-treated subjects, were consistent with clinical data showing greater improvement in fine wrinkling and roughness after tretinoin emollient cream therapy than after vehicle therapy. Findings from these multicenter studies confirm the value of the skin replica technique and help establish the efficacy of tretinoin emollient 0.05% cream for photodamaged skin.
A plethora of literature promoting our understanding of the differences between intrinsic (chronologic) aging versus extrinsic aging of the skin has been published during the last two decades. The predominant extrinsic factor is UV radiation; the functional, histologic, and clinical consequences are referred to as photoaging, or dermatoheliosis. Actinic elastosis refers specifically to the degenerative histologic alterations seen by light microscopy in sun-damaged skin. Multiple factors, including anatomic site, extent of sun exposure, and other physical or environmental factors affect the clinical appearance of these changes. We review the clinical spectrum of the actinic elastotic variants.
This article discusses the various over-the-counter and prescription products available to help improve sun-damaged skin, as well as superficial peeling agents. Practical suggestions for treating patients are given.
A 45-year-old fair-skinned woman has noted increasing sallowness, roughness, fine wrinkles, and mottled hyperpigmentation on her face. She is bothered by these changes and is worried about the development of nonmelanoma skin cancer. What treatments may minimize skin aging and lower the risk of skin cancer?
Morphologic changes that take place in aging skin or photodamaged skin are the subject of this article. Long-term safety of retinoid use has been established through continued use for more than 30 years and through the clinical trials that were performed to study their histologic effect. Aging skin changes are reviewed and compared with normal skin; and histologic markers, keratinocytes, and melanocytes were followed over time to determine whether retinoids are safe. Based on the histology of skin tissue from patients treated for up to 4 years, topical retinoids were found to be safe and effective in the treatment of topical skin infections.
A major cause of ageing is thought to be the accumulation of damage to macromolecules. Accumulation to DNA damage in cells therefore presupposes that aged cells are unable to repair this damage. We have used the in vitro model of cellular ageing to test the idea that senescent cells are deficient in some aspect of DNA repair. Using the alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis assay (comet assay), we have determined the responses of young and senescent human dermal fibroblasts to DNA damage caused by exposure to UVC light. At low doses of UVC, senescent cells generate smaller comets than young cells whilst at medium doses the situation is reversed. At high doses, young and senescent cells respond similarly to one another. Time course experiments revealing repair of DNA damage show that senescent cells generate larger comets than young cells at early stages of repair suggesting that either senescent cells bear more damage per genome than do young cells or that senescent cells are more efficient at excising bulky adducts from DNA. Cells maintained in low levels of serum irrespective of age are less able to repair DNA damage compared with cells maintained in high levels of serum, and furthermore young and senescent cells maintained in high levels of serum are equally able to repair DNA damage. Our data, therefore, reveal both age-dependent and age-independent responses to UV-induced DNA damage. Use of the comet assay highlights the heterogeneity of cellular responses to genotoxic stress.
Many older individuals use products and procedures to conceal or delay the signs of aging. For most, this provides a helpful ego boost, but some suffer from pathologies such as eating disorders and body dysmorphic disorder. The impact of aging skin may include social anxiety and social isolation. Poor self-image is associated with chronic illness and fewer preventive health behaviors, such as exercise. Aged appearance, especially in women, is also associated with workplace discrimination. Patients should therefore be offered treatments for aging skin, ensured that society's negative views not be unnecessarily reinforced, and maintain a realistic treatment expectations.
Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation induces damage of the skin, and in particular, photoageing is known to be the result of chronic UV irradiation. Many investigations have attempted to clarify the mechanisms of photoageing induced by chronic UVA irradiation, but consensus has not been achieved yet by in vivo experiments, mostly due to differences among UV sources and animals used for experiments. In vitro experiments have shown that a single exposure to UVA irradiation causes overexpression of matrix metalloproteinases and denaturation of collagen, but the mechanisms of the photoageing effects of chronic UVA irradiation are still unclear. To examine the effects of chronic UVA irradiation, we used an in vitro fibroblast cellular ageing system as a model of photoageing. Chronic UVA irradiation of normal human fibroblasts induced shortening of the cellular life span and an increase of cellular diameter, in parallel with expression of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase. Extracellular degradation enzyme, matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) was overexpressed after repeated UVA irradiation, but tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) expression was hardly changed by chronic UVA irradiation. We conclude that chronic UVA irradiation of normal human fibroblasts induces cellular functional changes, leading to accelerated cellular ageing and MMP-1 overexpression.