Exploring the facial skin rejuvenation properties of XEP®-716 miniprotein: A precision analysis using confocal laser scanning microscopy and AI based quantification

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