Pukyong National University

Pukyong National University Reveals How Next-Generation Regenerative Material ‘Exosomes’ Prevent Skin Aging

― Research Led by Ph.D. Candidate Jeong Se-young, M.S. Student Park Ji-young, and Professor Eom Woo-ram

― Study on Stem Cell？Derived Anti-Aging Exosomes Published in International Journal <ACS Nano>

A research team led by Professor Eom Woo-ram from the Department of Biotechnology at Pukyong National University has uncovered the mechanism by which exosomes―a next-generation regenerative therapeutic―help prevent skin aging.

The team, including Ph.D. candidate Jeong Se-young and M.S. student Park Ji-young, co-authored a paper titled ‘Stem Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles in Skin Anti-aging Treatments,’ which was recently published in <ACS Nano> (IF: 15.8), a leading international journal in the field of nanoscience.

As the global population continues to age and demand for aesthetic treatments rises, there is growing interest in anti-aging technologies that help maintain a youthful and healthy appearance. Exosomes, derived from stem cells, have emerged as a cutting-edge ingredient and are increasingly used as a key active component in a wide range of anti-aging products.

Unlike traditional preventive anti-aging ingredients, exosomes have demonstrated superior effects in improving wrinkles and reducing inflammation, making them increasingly popular in cosmetics and medical devices. However, their precise mechanisms of action had remained unclear―posing limitations to clinical approval and the development of more advanced products.

Based on a comprehensive analysis of over 210 previously published studies, Professor Eom Woo-ram’s team presented findings showing that stem cell？derived exosomes promote collagen synthesis in the dermis while effectively suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress. These mechanisms contribute significantly to improved skin elasticity and wrinkle reduction.

The study also proposed enhanced delivery methods using medical devices such as microneedles and hydrogels to further boost the anti-aging efficacy of exosomes in the skin.

Professor Eom Woo-ram stated, “This study presents a comprehensive understanding of how exosomes work to prevent skin aging, and we expect it to serve as a crucial foundation for developing innovative treatments that go beyond aesthetics to fundamentally restore skin health.”

Meanwhile, this research was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea and Pukyong National University. <Pukyong Today>