Objective: The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides structural and functional support for skin. Strategies that stimulate fibroblast activity and ECM synthesis are key in regenerative and aesthetic medicine. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of a hyaluronic acid plus six-amino acid formulation (HA6AA) with a polynucleotide mixture (PN) on extracellular matrix (ECM)-related gene expression in human dermal fibroblasts. Method: In this in vitro comparative experimental study, human dermal fibroblasts were treated with HA6AA (1%) or PN (100µg/ml) for 96 hours. Expression of elastin (ELN), fibronectin (FBN) and multiple collagen (Col) isoforms was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results: HA6AA markedly upregulated ECM genes, including: ELN (+242%, p<0.005); FBN (+105%, p<0.005); Col1a1 (+49%, p<0.05); Col4a1 (+233%, p<0.005); Col5a3 (+48%, p<0.05); Col7a1 (+38%, p<0.05); and Col17a1 (+40%, p<0.05). PN had minimal or no effect on ECM gene expression. Conclusion: In this study, HA6AA exerted a broad stimulatory effect on ECM gene expression, outperforming PN. These findings highlight the potential of amino acid–based formulations for skin regeneration, though validation in multiple donors and in vivo models is warranted.
Canciani et al. (Wed,) studied this question.