In vivo evaluation of novel particle-free polycaprolactone fillers for safety, degradation, and neocollagenesis in a rat model.

Dermal fillers have become popular due to the increased demand for skin rejuvenation products. Polycaprolactone (PCL), a newly developed bioresorbable medical polymer, has emerged as a durable and safe dermal filler. However, available PCL fillers cause irritation; carrier gels can coagulate PCL particles, block the injection needle, and cause nonhomogeneity of particle suspensions that could be responsible for the observed side effects. To relieve pain, premixing PCL filler with lidocaine. However, this formulation changes the property of the CMC portion of the PCL filler, and possibly results in an uneven suspension of the PCL particles. Hence, a particle-free PCL homogeneously solubilized in water was developed to overcome these limitations. This study aimed to assess the in vivo safety, biodegradability, and neocollagenesis ability of a novel PCL filler, DLMR01 using a rat model. Fillers were characterized after injecting a vehicle control or DLMR01 using a digital camera, folliscope, and a three-dimensional profiling system. Biopsy was performed to evaluate biocompatibility and neocollagenesis. Skin elasticity was measured using a Cutometer. DLMR01 caused no needle occlusion by particle aggregation or laborious injectability. Filler nodules dispersed to surrounding tissues within 6 hours without further granuloma formation. Histological inspection revealed no tissue residual material or foreign body reaction during the 12-week test period. DLMR01 increased dermal thickness, collagen regeneration, and skin elasticity. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of DLMR01 for dermal rejuvenation in a rat model.

Preclinical evaluation for removal of bulging lower eyelid fat using ultrasound-assisted lipolysis on a Yorkshire pig.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of treating lower eyelid fat bulging with ultrasound-assisted lipolysis (UAL) by performing a preclinical evaluation of the procedure on a Yorkshire pig. METHODS: Two white Yorkshire pigs had lower eyelid fat bulging treated with UAL using a probe with a diameter of 1.0 mm or less. Fourteen days after treatment, we evaluated the changes in fat thickness from ultrasound, changes in skin contour (volume and height) from the Antera 3D™, and the disruption of fat cells and changes in collagen synthesis from histological evaluation. RESULTS: Fourteen days after treatment, the fat layer was significantly reduced with no damage to the skin surface. The mean change in the subcutaneous fat layer thickness was decreased 1.51-0.75 mm in ultrasound analysis. The skin contour of the treated area also decreased with time from 202.5 to 163.5 mm in mean volume and 0.8111 to 0.646 mm in mean height. Masson's trichrome staining showed that the UAL treatment induced the regeneration and remodeling of collagen. CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrate that UAL successfully reduced the bulging lower eyelid fat of a Yorkshire pig and also increased collagen contraction to tighten skin. UAL may be a beneficial and well-tolerated treatment option for lower eyelid fat bulging.

Comparison of different energy response for lipolysis using a 1,060-nm laser: An animal study of three pigs.

BACKGROUND: Non-invasive body-sculpting procedures are becoming increasingly popular. The application of 1,060 nm of laser energy transcutaneously to hyperthermically induce the disruption of fat cells in the abdomen is a type of non-invasive procedure. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to compare the treatment results from two parameters of the same system, each with different energy output levels, in an in vivo porcine model to determine the most effective application. METHODS: Female pigs (n = 3) were used in this study. We examined the effects of the treatment using photography, ultrasonography, gross and microscopic pathology, and histological examination in order to determine the mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of the procedure. Blood chemistry analysis was performed before each session to check lipid levels and to monitor for any adverse changes in markers that may indicate liver damage. Biopsies were taken and routinely processed with hematoxylin and eosin and Oil Red O stains to examine for tissue damage at baseline and after each treatment. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays were performed to check for apoptotic-related DNA damage. RESULTS: Ultrasonic imaging of the same area before and after the application of 1,060 nm of laser energy at outputs of 0.9 and 1.4 W/cm2 showed that the density of the fat layer changed immediately after irradiation due to the transient heat transfer in the fat layer. Preclinical evaluation was performed to obtain comparison data on the safety and efficacy of subcutaneous fat reduction after applying the different energy outputs of 0.9 and 1.4 W/cm2 . CONCLUSION: Based on our findings, we suggest that long-term histologic changes through the use of these devices suggest a comparative effectiveness of the treatment energy.

Evaluation of nail surface topography using a three-dimensional in vivo optical skin imaging system.

BACKGROUND: The analysis of nail surface topography is a subject of ever-increasing interest in dermatology, especially in cosmetic studies. However, there is no accurate and scientifically sound instrumental method that can identify and provide quantitative data on nail surface topography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The right index fingers of 78 healthy individuals were examined. The severity of nail roughness was rated by two independent dermatologists on a scale of 1 to 3. Using the phaseshift rapid in vivo measurement of the skin (PRIMOS) system, three-dimensional microtopography was performed, and the roughness parameter values were calculated and evaluated. The relationship between clinical nail roughness grade and nail roughness parameter values obtained utilizing PRIMOS was evaluated. RESULTS: A moderate correlation was found between the roughness parameter values and the clinical roughness grade. Our study showed that an overall relationship exists between the nail roughness parameter values obtained using PRIMOS and clinically observed nail surface changes. CONCLUSION: With further studies, PRIMOS could be a valuable tool for clinicians and researchers for conducting an accurate and objective patient assessment in daily practice and demonstrating effectiveness of different therapies for nail dystrophy or evaluating cosmetic effects of various topical treatments in future clinical trials.

Efficacy and Safety of a Novel Botulinum Toxin A for Masseter Reduction: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Optimal Dose-Finding Study.

BACKGROUND: A wide lower face and a square jaw are considered esthetic problems, particularly in Asia. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the optimal dose of a novel botulinum toxin (prabotulinum toxin A) for treating masseteric hypertrophy. METHODS: Ninety subjects with masseteric hypertrophy were randomly divided into 5 groups and treated with placebo (A, normal saline) or prabotulinum toxin A (B: 24, C: 48, D: 72, and E: 96 units). Photography, ultrasonography, and 3-dimensional imaging were performed before and after injection at baseline and at 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after treatment. The participants also rated their satisfaction. RESULTS: Masseter thickness significantly reduced in all groups at 12 weeks, compared with that in the placebo group. A dose-dependent reduction in masseter thickness was observed at the resting and maximal clenching positions. Sonography and 3-dimensional imaging revealed a gradual reduction in masseter thickness and volume, respectively, during the first 12 weeks. Despite being slightly effective, a dose of 24 units might be insufficient for resolving square face problems. Patients in Group E reported discomfort during jaw movement. CONCLUSION: Prabotulinum toxin A could effectively improve lower face contour without major complications, with an optimal dose of 48 to 72 units, followed by reinjection after 12 weeks.

Boehmite enhances hair follicle growth via stimulation of dermal papilla cells by upregulating ß-catenin signalling.

Hair growth, a complex process, has long been the subject of intense research. Recent developments in material technology have revealed boehmite as a new therapeutic modality for use in wound healing and scar reduction, indicating its beneficial effects. Nonetheless, the biological bases of the beneficial effects of boehmite remain unknown. We investigated the hair growth properties of boehmite in vitro and in vivo and observed dose-dependent proliferation of human dermal papilla cells (hDPCs) in vitro and hair regrowth in a mouse model. To investigate the effects of boehmite on the promotion of cell transition to the anagen phase, we evaluated hDPC viability, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, protein expression and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion in vitro and assessed the anagen-promoting effects of boehmite via gross observation and histological analysis in a mouse model. Boehmite increased hDPC viability, ALP activity, AKT/GSK3ß/ß-catenin pathway activity, anagen-related gene expression and VEGF secretion; moreover, it accelerated hair regrowth in a catagen-anagen transition model via upregulation of ß-catenin signalling and follicular cell proliferation. Collectively, our results indicate that boehmite accelerates hair growth, partly via its effects on critical events in the active phase of the hair follicle cycle, including the promotion of the proliferation of hDPCs and their immediate progeny to the follicle base.

310 nm UV-LEDs attenuate imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in C57BL/6 mice and inhibit IL-22-induced STAT3 expression in HaCaT cells.

Ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) are a novel light source for phototherapy. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of UV-LEDs on psoriasis. Importantly, 310 nm UV-LEDs have not been studied in psoriasis in vitro and in vivo. Effects due to 310 nm UV-LED and 311 nm narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB) irradiation were compared for suppressing IL-22-induced activation of STAT3 expression using cell viability assay, western blotting, and immunocytochemistry. C57BL/6 mice were topically treated with imiquimod (IMQ) for 6 consecutive days and degenerative changes were observed. Test groups were irradiated with a 310 nm UV-LED and 311 nm NBUVB. Phenotypic observations, histopathological examinations, and ELISA were conducted with skin and blood samples. STAT3-dependent IL-22 signalling and effects in keratinocytes are negatively regulated by the 310 nm UV-LED, which significantly ameliorated IMQ-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis development and reduced Th17 cytokine levels (IL-17A, IL-22) in serum and dorsal skin. Histopathological findings showed decreases in epidermal thickness and inflammatory T-cell infiltration in the UV-LED-irradiated groups. Quantitative PCR confirmed a UV radiation energy-dependent decrease in IL-17A and IL-22 mRNA levels. The results demonstrated that UV-LEDs had anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects. So, UV-LED phototherapy inhibits psoriasis development by suppressing STAT3 protein and inflammatory cytokines and could be useful in treating psoriasis.

Efficacy and Safety of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Noninvasive Abdominal Subcutaneous Fat Reduction.

BACKGROUND: Demand for noninvasive body contouring has increased. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the efficacy and safety of a thermal high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) device for abdominal body shaping. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Adults with a body mass index ≤30 kg/m and an abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue thickness ≥2.5 cm were enrolled for HIFU treatment at energy levels of 150 J/cm (first session) and 135 J/cm (second session). The primary end point was a change from baseline waist circumference at post-treatment Week 8. Secondary efficacy end points were: changes in body weight, waist/hip ratio, and fat thickness assessed by ultrasound, caliper, and a fat CT scan. The Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale was evaluated by both investigators and subjects. RESULTS: The primary assessment achieved statistical significance, showing a reduction of 3.43 cm in mean waist circumference. The treatment effect was cumulative, with a steady decrease in waist circumference and fat thickness. The mean pain scores immediately after treatment were 4.45 ± 2.74 on a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the most painful, which decreased to 1.10 ± 1.33 after 1 week. CONCLUSION: High-intensity focused ultrasound is an effective and safe treatment modality for reducing waist circumference in nonobese individuals with focal fat accumulation.

The Effects of Fabric Containing Chamaecyparis obtusa Essential Oil on Atopic Dermatitis-Like Lesions: A Functional Clothing Possibility.

BACKGROUND: Essential oil derived from Chamaecyparis obtusa (EOCO) has been used as an alternative treatment for allergy-related diseases due to its immune-modulating characteristics. Clothing has the longest and most intense contact with human skin, and functional fabrics with intrinsic properties have been increasingly implemented in medical applications. Specially designed fabrics may support atopic dermatitis (AD) treatment. In this study, the effects of fabric containing EOCO on AD were investigated using an NC/Nga mouse model. METHODS: The fabric was applied for 6 h per day for 14 days. The therapeutic effects were evaluated according to measurements of skin lesion severity (modified SCORAD score), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), serum IgE and inflammatory cytokine levels, lesion thickness measured after hematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemical and Western blot analysis for skin epidermal differentiation protein. RESULTS: The EOCO group exhibited significantly reduced modified SCORAD score, TEWL, and serum IgE levels. Among the inflammatory cytokines analyzed, only the mean values of regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted were observed to be decreased compared with other control groups. The histological analysis of the skin also revealed that the EOCO group expressed reduced epidermal hyperplasia and recovered filaggrin, involucrin, and loricrin expression. CONCLUSIONS: It was confirmed that fabric containing EOCO has anti-atopic and anti-inflammatory properties. The study data show that fabric containing EOCO can be implemented as an alternative functional clothing for people suffering from AD.

Inhibition of melanogenesis by sodium 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate.

Sodium 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate (mesna) is a protective agent that is widely used in medicine because of its antioxidant effects. Recently, reactive oxygen species (ROS) were shown to increase pigmentation. Thus, ROS scavengers and inhibitors of ROS production may suppress melanogenesis. Forkhead box-O3a (FoxO3a) is an antimelanogenic factor that mediates ROS-induced skin pigmentation. In this study, we aimed to investigate the whitening effect of mesna and the signaling mechanism mediating this effect. Human melanoma (MNT-1) cells were used in this study. mRNA and protein expression were measured by real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting analysis to track changes in FoxO3a-related signals induced by mesna. An immunofluorescence assay was performed to determine the nuclear translocation of FoxO3a. When MNT-1 melanoma cells were treated with mesna, melanin production and secretion decreased. These effects were accompanied by increases in FoxO3a activation and nuclear translocation, resulting in downregulation of four master genes of melanogenesis: MITF, TYR, TRP1, and TRP2. We found that mesna, an antioxidant and radical scavenger, suppresses melanin production and may therefore be a useful agent for the clinical treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders.

Therapeutic potential of topically administered γ-AlOOH on 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis-like lesions in Balb/c mice.

Boehmite (γ-AlOOH) has a wide range of applications in a variety of industrial and biological fields. However, little is known about its potential roles in skin diseases. The current study investigated its effect on atopic dermatitis (AD). Following characterization, cytotoxicity, pro-inflammatory response and oxidative stress associated with boehmite were assessed, using TNF-α-induced keratinocytes and mast cells. In addition, therapeutic effects of boehmite, topically administered to Balb/c mice induced by 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), were evaluated. Expression of cytokines (TLSP, IL-25 and IL-33) and the generation of ROS from keratinocytes induced by TNF-α were significantly inhibited by boehmite without affecting cell viability. MAPKs (ERK, JNK and p38) required for cytokine expression were suppressed by boehmite treatment. Up-regulation of cytokines (TSLP, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, RANTES) in human mast cells treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and calcium ionophore was also suppressed by boehmite. Boehmite improved the AD severity score, epidermal hyperplasia and transepidermal water loss in DNCB-induced AD-like lesions. Moreover, Th2-mediated cytokine expression, mast cell hyperplasia and destruction of the skin barrier were improved by boehmite treatment. Overall, we demonstrated that boehmite may potentially protect against AD.

Comparative Evaluation of the Biodegradability and Wrinkle Reduction Efficacy of Human-Derived Collagen Filler and Hyaluronic Acid Filler.

BACKGROUND: The development of fillers for wrinkle prevention is growing to meet rising demands to reduce the aging of skin. OBJECTIVE: In this experiment, we confirmed the effects of human collagen and hyaluronic acid filler biodegradation for wrinkle reduction using a photo-aging mouse model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 10 hairless mice (SKH1-Hrhr) were randomly divided into two groups and injected with hyaluronic acid and human-derived collagen filler. At 0, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, PRIMOSlite®, folliscope, and MRI were used to evaluate the biodegradability of the fillers after the injections. We also studied the photo-aging mouse model for skin roughness and histological evaluation and confirmed that the filler injection had excellent anti-wrinkle effects. RESULTS: Human-derived collagen fillers had excellent biodegradability compared to that of hyaluronic acid fillers. The skin surface roughness in the photo-aging mouse models was significantly reduced after injections of human-derived collagen filler. CONCLUSION: Our results showed that the human-derived collagen filler had excellent biodegradability and effectively reduced wrinkle formation in a photo-aging mouse model. NO LEVEL ASSIGNED: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Irradiation with 310 nm and 340 nm ultraviolet light-emitting-diodes can improve atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice.

Ultraviolet (UV) light produces an immunomodulatory effect on the skin and is widely used for the treatment of chronic inflammatory skin diseases. UV light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) are a new and promising source of UV radiation. However, their mechanism of action remains largely unknown. In this study, we tested the safety and effectiveness of UV-LED irradiation for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) in an NC/Nga mouse model. Mice were divided into seven groups of eight mice each. Application of Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) extract ointment for four weeks induced AD-like skin lesions. Subsequently, the mice were exposed to UV-LEDs, narrow band UVB, or UVA irradiation three times per week. We assessed the immunosuppressive effects of 310 nm (50 mJ cm-2) and 340 nm (5 J cm-2) UV-LED irradiation. Histological analyses using hematoxylin-eosin, toluidine blue, and immunohistochemical staining were performed. In addition, the serum levels of IgE, inflammatory cytokines and chemokines were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). UV-LED irradiation significantly alleviated AD-like skin symptoms, including edema, erythema, dryness, and itching, by modulating Th1 and Th2 responses, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and scratching behavior in NC/Nga mice. These results suggest that UV-LEDs can improve the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.

High-intensity focused ultrasound treatment after cryolipolysis may be used to reduce pain: Two case report.

In recent years, interest in body sculpting has increased and various technologies have been used and developed. In the present study, we assessed the efficacy and safety of combination treatment using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and cryolipolysis. The findings show that not only HIFU but also combination treatments are safe and well-tolerated options for the treatment of central abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). Interestingly, the pain associated with HIFU when it was performed after cryolipolysis was significantly reduced.

Fractional CO2 laser treatment for vaginal laxity: A preclinical study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Various studies have investigated treatment for vaginal laxity with microablative fractional carbon dioxide CO2 laser in humans; however, this treatment has not yet been studied in an animal model. Herein, we evaluate the therapeutic effects of fractional CO2 laser for tissue remodeling of vaginal mucosa using a porcine model, with the aim of improving vaginal laxity. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: The fractional CO2 laser enables minimally invasive and non-incisional procedures. By precisely controlling the laser energy pulses, energy is sent to the vaginal canal and the introitus area to induce thermal denaturation and contraction of collagen. We examined the effects of fractional CO2 laser on a porcine model via clinical observation and ultrasound measurement. Also, thermal lesions were histologically examined via hematoxylin-eosin staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and Elastica van Gieson staining and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: The three treatment groups, which were determined according to the amount of laser-energy applied (60, 90, and 120 mJ), showed slight thermal denaturation in the vaginal mucosa, but no abnormal reactions, such as excessive hemorrhaging, vesicles, or erythema, were observed. Histologically, we also confirmed that the denatured lamina propria induced by fractional CO2 laser was dose-dependently increased after laser treatment. The treatment groups also showed an increase in collagen and elastic fibers due to neocollagenesis and angiogenesis, and the vaginal walls became firmer and tighter because of increased capillary and vessel formation. Also, use of the fractional CO2 laser increased HSP (heat shock protein) 70 and collagen type I synthesis. CONCLUSION: Our results show that microablative fractional CO2 laser can produce remodeling of the vaginal connective tissue without causing damage to surrounding tissue, and the process of mucosa remodeling while under wound dressings enables collagen to increase and the vaginal wall to become thick and tightened. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:940-947, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Inhibitory effect of 660-nm LED on melanin synthesis in in vitro and in vivo.

BACKGROUND: Skin hyperpigmentary disorders including postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, solar lentigines, and conditions like freckles are common. The light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are the latest category of nonthermal and noninvasive phototherapy to be considered in skin pigmentation disorder treatment. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 660-nm LED on inhibition of melanogenesis. We investigated whether a 660-nm LED affected melanin synthesis in in vitro and in vivo models, and we explored the mechanisms involved. METHODS: The inhibitory effect of 660-nm LED on melanin synthesis was evaluated in B16F10 cells and HRM-2 melanin-possessing hairless mice were used to evaluate the antimelanogenic effects of 660-nm LED. RESULTS: Interestingly, 660-nm LED inhibited alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-induced tyrosinase activity in B16F10 cells. We also found that 660-nm LED decreased MITF and tyrosinase expression and induced the activation of ERK. These findings suggest that the depigmenting effects of 660-nm LED result from downregulation of MITF and tyrosinase expression due to increased ERK activity. The 660-nm LED reduced UVB-induced melanogenesis in the skin of HRM-2 via downregulation of tyrosinase and MITF. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest 660-nm LED is a potentially depigmentation strategy.

Targeting of sebaceous glands to treat acne by micro-insulated needles with radio frequency in a rabbit ear model.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Many studies have investigated the application of micro-insulated needles with radio frequency (RF) to treat acne in humans; however, the use of a micro-insulated needle RF applicator has not yet been studied in an animal model. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a micro-insulated needle RF applicator in a rabbit ear acne (REA) model. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we investigated the effect of selectively destroying the sebaceous glands using a micro-insulated needle RF applicator on the formation of comedones induced by application of 50% oleic acid and intradermal injection of P. acnes in the orifices of the external auditory canals of rabbits. The effects of the micro-insulated needle RF applicator treatment were evaluated using regular digital photography in addition to 3D Primos imaging evaluation, Skin Visio Meter microscopic photography, and histologic analyses. RESULTS: Use of the micro-insulated needle RF applicator resulted in successful selective destruction of the sebaceous glands and attenuated TNF-alpha release in an REA model. The mechanisms by which micro-insulated needles with RF using 1 MHz exerts its effects may involve inhibition of comedone formation, triggering of the wound healing process, and destruction of the sebaceous glands and papules. CONCLUSION: The use of micro-insulated needles with RF applicators provides a safe and effective method for improving the appearance of symptoms in an REA model. The current in vivo study confirms that the micro-insulated needle RF applicator is selectively destroying the sebaceous glands. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:395-401, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Conditioned medium from human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells promotes skin moisturization and effacement of wrinkles in UVB-irradiated SKH-1 hairless mice.

BACKGROUND: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising therapeutic agents for various diseases. AIMS: To investigate the effects of conditioned medium from human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-CdM) on pro-collagen production and wrinkle formation, we performed in vitro and in vivo experiments. METHODS: We assessed the effects of MSC-CdM on proliferation and photo-aging in human dermal fibroblasts after UVB exposure using enzyme activity assays for collagen type I secretion and MMP-1. To determine the effect of topically applied MSC-CdM on wrinkle formation, MSC-CdM (1% and 10%) and vehicle (propylene glycol: ethanol, 7 : 3) were applied to the dorsal skin of UVB-irradiated hairless mice for 8 weeks. We examined the effects on wrinkle formation by assessing visual skin grading, replica, tape stripping, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin hydration measurement. We also examined histology of the lesions using hematoxylin-eosin, Masson's trichrome, and immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS: MSC-CdM markedly reduced UV-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 expression and increased pro-collagen synthesis in a dose-dependent manner. Our findings suggest that MSC-CdM induces repair of dermal damage and effacement of wrinkles on UVB-irradiated hairless mice through protective effect of hydration. CONCLUSION: These results support an anti-wrinkle effect of MSC-CdM that involves increased collagen synthesis and suggest that MSC-CdM might be a potential candidate for preventing UV-induced skin damage.

Effect of a 308-nm excimer laser on atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease that can affect all age groups. It has a relapsing course, which dramatically affects the quality of life of patients. A 308-nm excimer laser has been reported to be a safe and effective treatment for inflammatory skin diseases, although the range of potential application has not been fully explored. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effects of a 308-nm laser on AD-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dermatophagoides farinae-exposed NC/Nga mice with a clinical score of 12 were treated with either a 308-nm excimer laser or narrowband-UVB (NB-UVB). The effects of the 308-nm excimer laser were evaluated by dermatitis scores, skin histology, skin barrier function, and immunological parameters, including IgE and Th2-mediated cytokines. RESULTS: The 308-nm excimer laser significantly reduced the severity of skin lesions and decreased the total serum levels of IgE and Th2-mediated cytokines. The excimer laser also significantly reduced the inflammatory cellular infiltrate into AD-induced skin lesions. Moreover, treatment with the 308-nm excimer laser led to recovery of skin barrier function in AD-induced skin lesions. CONCLUSION: The 308-nm excimer laser can be considered a valid and safe therapeutic option for the treatment of localized AD. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:629-637, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Investigating skin penetration depth and shape following needle-free injection at different pressures: A cadaveric study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The effectiveness of needle-free injection devices in neocollagenesis for treating extended skin planes is an area of active research. It is anticipated that needle-free injection systems will not only be used to inject vaccines or insulin, but will also greatly aid skin rejuvenation when used to inject aesthetic materials such as hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, and placental extracts. There has not been any specific research to date examining how materials penetrate the skin when a needle-free injection device is used. In this study, we investigated how material infiltrates the skin when it is injected into a cadaver using a needle-free device. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a needle-free injector (INNOJECTOR™; Amore Pacific, Seoul, Korea), 0.2 ml of 5% methylene blue (MB) or latex was injected into cheeks of human cadavers. The device has a nozzle diameter of 100 µm and produces a jet with velocity of 180 m/s. This jet penetrates the skin and delivers medicine intradermally via liquid propelled by compressed gasses. Materials were injected at pressures of 6 or 8.5 bars, and the injection areas were excised after the procedure. The excised areas were observed visually and with a phototrichogram to investigate the size, infiltration depth, and shape of the hole created on the skin. A small part of the area that was excised was magnified and stained with H&E (×40) for histological examination. RESULTS: We characterized the shape, size, and depth of skin infiltration following injection of 5% MB or latex into cadaver cheeks using a needle-free injection device at various pressure settings. Under visual inspection, the injection at 6 bars created semi-circle-shaped hole that penetrated half the depth of the excised tissue, while injection at 8.5 bars created a cylinder-shaped hole that spanned the entire depth of the excised tissue. More specific measurements were collected using phototrichogram imaging. The shape of the injection entry point was consistently spherical regardless of the amount of pressure used. When injecting 5% MB at 6 bars, the depth of infiltration reached 2.323 mm, while that at 8.5 bars reached 8.906 mm. The area of the hole created by the 5% MB injection was 0.797 mm(2) at 6 bars and 0.242 mm(2) at 8.5 bars. Latex injections reached a depth of 3.480 mm at 6 bars and 7.558 mm at 8.5 bars, and the areas were measured at 1.043 mm(2) (6 bars) and 0.355 mm(2) (8.5 bars). Histological examination showed that the injection penetrated as deep as the superficial musculoaponeurotic system at 6 bars and the masseter muscle at 8.5 bars. CONCLUSION: When injecting material into the skin using a pneumatic needle-free injector, higher-pressure injections result in a hole with smaller area than lower-pressure injections. The depth and shape of skin penetration vary according to the amount of pressure applied. For materials of low density and viscosity, there is a greater difference in penetration depth according to the degree of pressure. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:624-628, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.