Exosomes derived from human dermal fibroblasts protect against UVB-induced skin photoaging

Exosomes are used as innovative treatment options for repairing skin defects, such as aging, atopic dermatitis and wounds. However, the effects of exosomes obtained from human foreskin fibroblasts BJ-5ta (BJ-5ta Exo) on ultraviolet B (UVB)-mediated photoaging have not been previously reported, at least to the best of our knowledge. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the anti-photoaging effects of BJ-5ta Exo on UVB radiation in human skin fibroblasts and SKH-1 hairless mice. The results revealed that BJ-5ta Exo decreased the production of reactive oxygen species and inhibited the decrease in the expression levels of superoxide dismutase 1 and 2, glutathione peroxidase and catalase following UVB exposure. In addition, BJ-5ta Exo attenuated the decrease in nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 levels induced by UVB rays, indicating its scavenging activity against oxidative stress. Moreover, BJ-5ta Exo inhibited the UVB-induced increase in the levels of gamma H2AX, p53/21 and cleaved PARP, whereas it promoted DNA double-strand break repair through radiation sensitive 52 and effectively activated the TGF-beta 1/Smad pathway. BJ-5ta Exo also protected against UVB-induced senescence, as indicated by the downregulation in the levels of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase and p16. In a mouse model of photoaging, BJ-5ta Exo prevented the UVB-induced increase in transepidermal water loss, wrinkle formation and MMP-1 expression, while also suppressing the UVB-mediated decrease in collagen type I and elastin levels in the dorsal skin. Overall, the findings of the present study suggest that BJ-5ta Exo represent an effective anti-photoaging agent, which can be used as a component in cosmetic products.