Asini Corii Colla exhibits anti-photoaging efficacy via activating collagen synthesis and maintaining redox & extracellular matrix homeostasis

Skin photoaging, primarily induced by chronic ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, is characterized by wrinkle formation, skin laxity, and collagen loss. As a traditional Chinese medicine, the potential of Asini Corii Colla (ACO) in protecting against skin photoaging has not been systematically investigated. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the anti-photoaging efficacy of ACO and elucidate its underlying mechanisms. Cytotoxicity and in vitro bioactivity of ACO were initially assessed in cultured human keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts, followed by examination of its effects on cell proliferation and migration under normal conditions, and on SA-β-Gal activity, collagen, and elastin synthesis under UV-induced photoaging. Subsequently, a UV-induced skin photoaging mouse model was established to further validate the efficacy in vivo . Pathological changes, collagen content, and senescence-related markers in skin tissues were analyzed. In vitro results demonstrated that ACO, within a safe concentration range below 20 mg/mL, significantly promoted cell proliferation and migration, inhibited cellular senescence, enhanced collagen synthesis, and suppressed extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. In vivo experiments confirmed that intervention with ACO markedly ameliorated UV-induced photoaging phenotypes in mice, including wrinkle formation and epidermal thickening, while maintaining dermal collagen density and content, and reducing oxidative stress in skin tissue. Collectively, ACO effectively mitigates UV-induced skin photoaging by promoting skin cell repair and regeneration, enhancing collagen synthesis, and maintaining redox homeostasis. These findings provide a solid scientific foundation for its potential application as an anti-photoaging agent.