A novel approach for skin rejuvenation by regenerative medicine: delivery of stem cell-derived growth factors through an iontophoretic system

Iontophoresis in dermal delivery: A review of applications in dermato-cosmetic and aesthetic sciences

OBJECTIVE

Iontophoresis is defined as the use of electric current to drive molecules across cell membranes through an electrolyte solution. In therapeutic context, it is used to facilitate the administration of bioactive substances, either systemically or locally. The technique presents various advantages and that is why it has been successfully used by a plethora of medical sciences. The constantly developing field of dermato-cosmetic science has also taken advantage of the possibilities offered by iontophoresis, aiming to enhance the delivery of the applied active ingredients and, thus, induce the desired cosmetic effects.

METHODS

The available literature was examined for evidence-based reports of safe and successful iontophoresis of pharmaceutical and cosmetic substances, in order to explore different iontophoretic applications in the field of dermato-cosmetic and dermato-aesthetic sciences.

CONCLUSION

Iontophoresis can be safely and successfully used in the treatment of ageing, photoageing, hyperpigmentation, oxidative stress, hair loss, hair removal, acne, acne sequelae and cellulite, providing many possibilities for enhanced treatment results.

Molecular Mechanisms and Current Pharmacotherapy of Peyronie's Disease: A Review

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a localized fibrotic lesion of the penis that has adverse effects on men’s health. In this review, we summarized the molecular mechanisms and pharmacotherapies of PD. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Cochrane Library during 2001–2020. Although no oral or topical medication demonstrated efficacy in monotherapy of PD, several intralesional medications have yielded promising results. Currently, the effective strategy in management of PD should be combined modality therapy, including but not limited to pharmacotherapy, mechanical therapy, and psychotherapy. Meanwhile, basic research is still necessary to facilitate the development of novel and more reliable treatments. In future, more attention should be given simultaneously to epigenetic changes, inflammatory cytokines, the abnormal wound-healing process, and profibrotic and anti-fibrotic factors to provide more options for this refractory disease.

An Update on the Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Cutaneous Diseases

Mesenchymal stem or stromal cells (MSCs) are nonhematopoietic postnatal stem cells with self-renewal, multipotent differentiation, and potent immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory capabilities, thus playing an important role in tissue repair and regeneration. Numerous clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated the potential application of MSCs in the treatment of tissue inflammation and immune diseases, including inflammatory skin diseases. Therefore, understanding the biological and immunological characteristics of MSCs is important to standardize and optimize MSC-based regenerative therapy. In this review, we highlight the mechanisms underlying MSC-mediated immunomodulation and tissue repair/regeneration and present the latest development of MSC-based clinical trials on cutaneous diseases.