Topical Application of Probiotic-Derived EGF From Pediococcus pentosaceus Improves UVB-Induced Photoaging in Hairless Mice
- Author:
Yoon Jin ROH
1
;
Yoon Hwan LEE
;
Sun Young YUH
;
Hye Won SONG
;
Do Yeon KWON
;
Byung Chull AN
;
Yongku RYU
;
Myung Jun CHUNG
;
Kui Young PARK
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Annals of Dermatology 2026;38(3):191-201
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is widely applied in dermatology for its regenerative effects; however, its clinical utility is limited by low stability and high production costs.To overcome these limitations, we developed a novel probiotic-derived epidermal growth factor (pEGF) by engineering Pediococcus pentosaceus CBT SL4 to express and secrete EGF.
Objective:To investigate the anti-photoaging effects of topical pEGF in a ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated mice by assessing histological and molecular changes related to collagen synthesis, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
Methods:SKH1 hairless mice were exposed to UVB for twelve weeks to induce photoaging and treated with topical 10% pEGF cream from week 9 to 12. Skin samples were analyzed using dermoscopy, histology, immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and proteomics to evaluate morphological and molecular alterations in ECM components and inflammatory markers.
Results:Topical pEGF treatment improved skin texture and reduced wrinkles. Histological evaluation revealed that EGF significantly attenuated UVB-induced epidermal thickening and restored collagen density, with the strongest effects observed in the pEGF group. Molecular analysis showed downregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs; MMP-1, MMP-3), upregulation of collagen (type I collagen, type III collagen) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs; TIMP-1, TIMP-2). Additionally, pEGF reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β) and oxidative stress markers.
Conclusion:pEGF demonstrated potent anti-photoaging effects through ECM restoration, inflammation modulation, and barrier reinforcement. These findings support the therapeutic potential of pEGF as a stable, cost-effective alternative to conventional EGF in dermatological applications.
