Scientifically speaking

The Silence of the Genes

In recent years, scientists became fascinated with a new mechanism of aging that works similarly for every organ and tissue. This new mechanism is called epigenetic modifications and imply changes in our DNA that result from impaired gene regulation. In other words epigenetic modifications are changes in the DNA that do not require rewriting of the genetic code. What happens is merely silencing or inhibition of a certain genes that are normally active in young tissues. This can affect for example repair enzymes that normally promptly fix any damage caused by environmental factors. It could be genes responsible for synthesis of collagen or other important proteins. Or it can be genes that produce anti-inflammatory substances. Today we know that many widespread toxins, including those that can be found in cosmetics, can silence those important genes increasing inflammation and speeding up aging. However, there are other compounds – some of them are also found in cosmetics – that can reverse these changes by reactivating silenced genes.

Recent studies showed that some well known plant antioxidants such as flavonoids that are long used in skin care for prevention of oxidative stress and inflammation can actually reverse harmful epigenetic changes. However, most plant compounds are active in relatively high concentrations and act better when consumed, not applied to the skin.  Another emerging epigenetic modifier is the tri-peptide GHK-Cu. More and more evidence points to the fact that this small molecule can be a new hero of anti-aging medicine. First, all experimental data indicates that its effects on the cells and tissues are very positive – it helps to regenerate tissues, repair damage and reverse many age-related changes. Second, it appears to control a large number of human genes. It even can re-activate some silenced genes. Third, it is active at a very low micro and nanomolar concentrations. And finally, it is able to pass the skin layers, which many other compounds cannot do. To the best of our knowledge, none of the other compound used in today’s cosmetics possesses all three qualities at once. So next time, you dab on your favorite GHK-Cu based cream, think of your genes that could be silenced by harmful environmental toxins, and all of a sudden, they have a VOICE. Once again, your skin can manufacture all the essential enzymes and proteins to remain beautiful and radiant.