The cornerstone for most cosmetic anti-aging claims, skin firming claims, or anti-wrinkle claims is to show that a material can exert a positive effect on the extracellular components of the epidermis and dermis. The primary targets for these claims are type I collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, and materials can be screened for both their ability to promote the synthesis of these ECM components, but also for their ability to inhibit the enzymes responsible for their breakdown. Our company makes use of different model types to assess materials for their ability to impact these ECM components. These models are listed below, along with typical ECM targets associated with each model.
Cultured Epidermal Keratinocytes
- Hyaluronic Acid
Cultured Dermal Fibroblasts
- Type I Collagen
- Type III Collagen
- Type V Collagen
- Elastin
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Fibronectin
- MMP Activity/Expression
- Elastase Expression
- Hyaluronidase Expression
- Hyaluronic Acid Synthase Expression
3D Skin Tissue (allows for testing of topical applications and finished products)
- Type I Collagen
- Type III Collagen
- Type V Collagen
- Elastin
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Fibronectin
Enzyme Inhibition Assays
- MMP1 (collagenase)
- Elastase
- Hyaluronidase
- MMPs 2,3,7,8,9,10,12,13, and 14
Please note that only the typical targets are listed. If there is another ECM component that your company has an interest in please let us know and we can accommodate you. Please contact us for specific pricing and study timing.