Polydeoxyribonucleotide in Skincare and Cosmetics: Mechanisms, Therapeutic Applications, and Advancements Beyond Wound Healing and Anti-aging

Context: Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a nucleic acid extract derived from trout sperm, has gained attention for its regenerative properties in dermatology and aesthetics. This review evaluates the therapeutic potential of PDRN in various dermatological applications, such as anti-aging, wound healing, hair regeneration, acne scar treatment, and melanogenesis, while focusing on its molecular mechanisms and clinical outcomes. Evidence Acquisition: This is a narrative review of the literature based on articles identified through PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The literature search included relevant terms such as "Polydeoxyribonucleotide", "Collagen", "Wound Healing", "Aging", "Hair Growth", "Acne Scar", "Melanin", "Angiogenesis", "VEGF", "Purinergic Receptors", and "Platelet-Rich Plasma". Studies published within the last two decades were considered for inclusion, focusing on both preclinical and clinical data that explored the effects of PDRN in dermatology. The review was conducted by synthesizing available evidence from relevant studies rather than following a predefined protocol, allowing for a broader, qualitative summary of the literature. Results: Polydeoxyribonucleotide has demonstrated significant effects in dermatological treatments, including the enhancement of collagen synthesis, skin elasticity improvement, and wrinkle reduction through activation of purinergic A2A receptors. It accelerates wound healing by promoting angiogenesis and upregulating VEGF expression. In a study evaluating VEGF mRNA levels in skin wound samples, PDRN (8 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) resulted in a significant increase in VEGF expression compared to the vehicle group (P < 0.001). In acne scar treatment, PDRN reduces inflammation and supports collagen remodeling. Polydeoxyribonucleotide also inhibits MITF, leading to a reduction in melanogenesis and potential skin-lightening effects. Additionally, PDRN has been shown to promote hair regeneration, increasing hair thickness and supporting follicular growth, with enhanced results when combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Conclusions: Polydeoxyribonucleotide demonstrates considerable potential as a therapeutic agent in treating various dermatological conditions, including wound healing, anti-aging, acne scars, and hair loss. However, further clinical studies, particularly larger trials and investigations of combination therapies, are essential to validate its efficacy and optimize clinical applications.