The Science and Applications of Polynucleotides in Regenerative Medicine by Deborah Winter
Polynucleotides, which are purified DNA fragments, have become increasingly popular in Europe for their regenerative properties. In London, I noticed a growing trend of combining polynucleotide injections with other non-invasive treatments for skin aging and not so heavily reliant on fillers and botox. Initially used for wound healing and hair restoration, these injections are now finding applications in aesthetic practices. Sourced primarily from fish gonads, these highly purified DNA fragments are injected into the skin, offering a natural, low-risk alternative for skin health. When administered, polynucleotides help regulate gene expression and promote tissue regeneration, improving skin appearance, reducing wrinkles, and enhancing overall skin vitality (Lee et al., 2024). This article delves into the mechanisms behind polynucleotide action, their extraction and purification processes, and their therapeutic potential, particularly in skin health, scar repair, hair restoration, and adjunctive cancer therapies.
Mechanisms of Action
The regenerative properties of polynucleotides are attributed to their ability to stimulate cellular processes. One of the key components is polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), which is derived from salmon sperm. PDRN consists of deoxyribonucleotide mixtures that are crucial for cellular regeneration and tissue repair. These polynucleotides exhibit several biological activities, including promoting cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and acting as anti-inflammatory agents (Lee et al., 2024).
Researchers have identified two primary pathways through which polynucleotides exert their effects. The first involves activation of the A2 receptor, which triggers a cascade effect that activates the Gs protein and stimulates adenylate cyclase. This process generates cyclic AMP, which in turn activates transcription factors that respond to hypoxia, inflammation, and other stress signals. This pathway also promotes vascular endothelial growth and the formation of new blood vessels, improving blood flow, oxygen delivery, and facilitating healing and regeneration ( Lee et al., 2024).
Clinical Applications in Dermatology
Polynucleotides are increasingly used in various clinical applications, ranging from scar tissue repair to adjunctive therapies for cancer treatment:
1. Scar Tissue Repair: Studies show that polynucleotides enhance wound healing by stimulating fibroblast activity, collagen production, and overall tissue regeneration (Kim et al., 2018).
2. Hair Restoration: By improving microcirculation and stimulating hair follicle regeneration, polynucleotides have shown promising results in treating hair loss (Lee et al., 2020).
3. Skin Cancer Adjunctive Therapy: Preliminary research suggests that polynucleotides may aid in skin cancer treatment by promoting skin repair and reducing inflammation (Martinez et al., 2017).
4. Chronic Skin Conditions: Emerging evidence indicates that polynucleotides could be beneficial in managing conditions like eczema by modulating immune responses and improving skin barrier function (**Chang et al., 2021).
Benefits for Aging Skin
The application of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine is driven by their ability to rejuvenate aging skin. As skin ages, basal cell function declines, immune defenses weaken, and the skin barrier deteriorates. Polynucleotides counteract these effects by:
- Enhancing hydration and skin elasticity.
- Stimulating fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis.
- Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Improving microcirculation, which supports better nutrient delivery to skin tissues.
Regular polynucleotide treatments can result in healthier, more resilient skin, with improvements in tone, texture, and reduced susceptibility to conditions like acne, redness, and even some non-cancerous skin growths.
Integration into Cosmetic Practices
Polynucleotides represent an advanced approach to skincare, offering solutions for both medical and aesthetic dermatology. In aesthetic practices, they address the root causes of skin aging and help to enhance the skin's natural defense mechanisms. When combined with sun protection, proper skincare routines, and other advanced procedures such as microneedling , polynucleotides seem to address whatever skin condition has resulted from poor skin integrity whether it be skin laxity, dark shadows under the eye, acne, poor skin tone. It does this by reinforcing the skin's own defence mechanism enabling it to address skin deficiency and improve.
Conclusion
Polynucleotides offer promising potential in my practice, they work well in conjunction with IPL and micro needling to improve skin health. Their ability to reduce inflammation, stimulate tissue regeneration, and enhance immune responses positions them as a valuable tool in the fight against skin aging and dermatological conditions and especially useful if you are considering any surgery. I am recommending a series of three treatments spaced 2-3 weeks apart.
References
Cavallini, M., De Luca, C., Prussia, G., Raichi, M. (2022). "PN-HPT® (Polynucleotides Highly Purified Technology) in Facial Middle Third Rejuvenation." *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology*, 21, 615–624. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.14578
Chang, Y. et al. (2021). "The Role of Polynucleotides in Modulating Immune Responses in Chronic Dermatological Conditions." *Journal of Dermatological Science*, 104(2), 150-160.
Kim, H. J. et al. (2018). "Polynucleotides in Scar Tissue Management: A Systematic Review." *Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery*, 141(4), 582-590.
Lee, S. H. et al. (2020). "Efficacy of Polynucleotide-Based Therapies in Hair Follicle Regeneration." *Clinical and Experimental Dermatology*, 45(6), 805-812.
Martinez, F. et al. (2017). "Adjunctive Benefits of Polynucleotides in Skin Cancer Treatment Protocols." *OncoTherapeutics*, 14(3), 200-210.
Lampridou, S., Bassett, S., Cavallini, M., & Christopoulos, G. (2024). "The Effectiveness of Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Systematic Review." *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology*, e16721. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.16721
