Title : Exploring the facial skin rejuvenation properties of XEP®-716 miniprotein: A precision analysis using confocal laser scanning microscopy and AI based quantification
Abstract:
Skin aging arises from both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Aged skin appears uneven, rough and wrinkled. Microscopically, aged skin exhibits decreased keratinocyte turnover, flattening of the dermal-epidermal junction and a thin dermis featuring a reduction in collagen fibers. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the rejuvenating effects of XEP®-716, a miniprotein exhibiting growth factor-like effects on skin cells, utilizing the non-invasive technique of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and an VISIA-CA®’s Artificial Intelligence based software (Canfield). Skin structures were evaluated with the Vivascope 1500 CLSM system in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, using a split-face design. Images of DEJ, dermal papillae and collagen content were captured after twice-daily topical application of a cosmetic formulation containing either 2.5% or 5% XEP®-716 miniprotein solution, versus a placebo at 28 and 56 days. Using a dedicated software, we were able: to quantify DEJ thickness corresponding to the height of epidermis indentation in the dermis; to count the number of edged dermal papillae corresponding to the density of epidermal indentation in the dermis; and to measure the size of collagen fibers. The VISIA-CA® system estimated the volunteers' age based on facial image analysis. The results demonstrated XEP®-716 miniprotein's ability to rejuvenate the DEJ and dermis. The DEJ appeared more undulated and tightly attached to the dermis. A denser deposition of newly synthesized collagen was observed in the papillary dermis, a common characteristic of younger skin. The skin ages estimated by AI confirmed this rejuvenation ability, with statistically significant improvements over both placebo and baseline.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- The audience will learn about what is a Miniprotein, a new class of actives for dermatological and cosmetic indications
- The Miniprotein named XEP-716 that will be presented is a TGF-beta like growth factor having skin rejuvenative properties. Indeed, the clinical results will show in mature skins the rejuvenation of dermo-epidermal junction and dermis demonstrated by two non-invasive methodologies : the laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and the ultrasonography. The results will show also that artificial intelligence applied to estimate the ages on clinical images can be a powerful tool to confirm this rejuvenative property
