Stem Cells as a Target for the Delivery of Active Molecules to Skin by Topical Administration

March 2020 in “ International Journal of Molecular Sciences ”

Hamidreza Ahmadi-Ashtiani, Parisa Bishe, Anna Baldisserotto, Piergiacomo Buso, Stefano Manfredini, Silvia Vertuani

Studysummary This article reviews advanced strategies for enhancing drug delivery to cutaneous stem cells to improve treatment for skin conditions and reports no new experimental findings.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The 2020 review discussed the potential of cutaneous stem cells as a therapeutic target for skin and hair disorders, including various types of skin cancers. The research focused on strategies to deliver active molecules to these stem cells through topical administration, overcoming the skin's barrier against most exogenous molecules. The document highlighted that hair loss can be caused by factors that decrease stem cell activity and the regeneration capacity of hair follicles. It also discussed the potential therapeutic uses of stem cells in the treatment of psoriasis and the role of mutations in stem cells in the development of diseases like scalp psoriasis. Various strategies to enhance skin penetration were explored, including physical enhancement methods like microneedling, and the use of delivery systems such as liposomes, ethosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, and nanocrystals. The document concluded that the future of skin stem cell study lies in their in vivo regulation through innovative therapies involving topical drug delivery strategies.

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