The research led by Procter & Gamble scientists, was primarily focused on the commercial aspect. They wanted to identify the genetic changes causing skin to age, in order to make cosmetics to slow or reverse the process.
Dr. Jay Tiesman, the principal scientist at the cosmetics division of Procter & Gamble, however, felt the research may have greater scientific credibility.
Researchers used data generated by the human genome project (the international effort to decode human DNA) and found that out of 20,000 to 25,0000 human genes
, nearly1, 500 play an important role in the aging process.
“The human genome project has made it possible for us to analyse ageing right down to the hundreds of genetic changes that happen in our skin as we get older," Dr. Tiesman said.
Factors responsible for skin deterioration
In their research Tiesman's team discovered that skin ages in eight separate ways, each controlled by a particular group of genes.
The scientists believe one of the most vital factors is hydration – the ability of the skin to gather and retains its moisture levels, using molecules that bind water into the skin.
As the years pile on and one grows old, the genes that control this process in the skin tend to become less active and the ability to retain water diminishes, leading to wrinkles.
According to Tiesman, around 700 genes could be involved in the process.
Another important aspect was collagen, the protein that gives skin its underlying structure and strength.
Researchers found that as people age, the genes that degrade collagen become more active, causing the skin to become wrinkled and lined. About 40 genes have been identified so far in this group, Tiesman says.
Another factor responsible was inflammation, which involved about 400 genes that tend to become overactive with age.
The research further reflects that exposure to environmental factors like sunshine plays an important role in the aging process.
Research demonstrated that skin not exposed to the sun had about 3,800 genetic mutations whereas the same selected genes in sun-aged skin rose to nearly 10,000.
Hence, it is important to protect oneself from the harmful rays of the sun if one wants to keep wrinkles at bay.
Other Factors impacting aging
The scientists further state that it’s not just the genes that matter but also ones lifestyle that plays a crucial role.
"Many things impact the aging process," says Dr. Oanh Lauring, chief of dermatology at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore. "We know that what speeds up the aging process is the formation of free radicals."
Some 200 genes control the skin's defenses against the free radicals, which are molecules that roam in the body damaging the DNA. Age weakens these defenses.
By identifying the DNA involved with skin aging, researchers hope to develop skin care products which can stimulate some genes and suppress others to reverse the effects of aging.
Professor Anthea Tinker, who studies the social aspect of aging at King's College London, said, “Older people care about their appearance just as much as any other age group and they are an important and growing market.”
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