Up-Regulated Expression of SOD2 and HPRT1 Following Topical Photoprotection and Photorepair Skincare Formulations in A 3-Dimensional Reconstructed Human Skin Model

Photodamage continues to threaten human skin health despite worldwide sun awareness campaigns and the widespread use of sunscreens. To date, extensive research is lacking into the effects of sun avoidance and solar specific skincare regimens on gene expression changes and DNA repair activity. We have previously reported that photoprotection and photorepair formulations which minimize the harmful effects of ultraviolet, visible light and near-infrared radiation can provide photoprotection, anti-photoaging benefits and rejuvenating effects optically, clinically and genetically. To investigate gene expression changes, specifically antioxidant and DNA repair effects following the use of topical photoprotection and photorepair formulations (The Essential Six, RATIONALE, Victoria, Australia), we used epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts derived from a 3-dimensional reconstructed human skin model, and assessed upregulation of SOD2 and HPRT1. Gene expression was assessed via the Genemarkers Standard Skin Panel and quantitative real-time PCR exploration. Tissues were inoculated with solar specific topical formulations, then collected after 24 hours following application of photoprotection formulations and 16 hours following photorepair formulations. The quantitative real-time PCR revealed that, in comparison to the control, the genes encoding SOD2 and HPRT1 have been significantly up-regulated following usage of the photoprotection formulations, 1.86, and 1.41, respectively. SOD2 and HPRT1 were up-regulated following use of the photorepair formulations, 2.15, and 1.28, respectively. We were able to substantiate that the photo protection and photorepair formulations upregulated genes involved in antioxidant and DNA repair mechanisms in a 3-dimensional reconstructed human skin model, suggesting a promising anti-photoaging skin regimen.