A new nanotechnology-based delivery system may help activate the body's natural defense against free radicals and control a variety of skin conditions, report researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Technion -- Israel Institute of Technology.

Specifically, applying nano-size droplets of microemulsion liquids containing a cellular protective pathway inducer into the skin activates the natural skin defense systems. Production of antioxidant enzymes in the body is signaled in the DNA by activation of Nrf2. This Nrf2 cellular-protective signaling pathway can coordinate the cellular response to internal as well as external stressors by tight regulation of phase-II protective enzymes, such as the antioxidant enzymes. There is a new family of compounds capable of activating the Nrf2 pathway, and by incorporating them into the unique delivery system, researchers can stimulate the activation of the Nrf2 pathway to mimic the activity of the body's' natural way of coping with a variety of stress conditions

"We showed that activation of the body's defense system with the aid of a unique delivery system is feasible, and may leverage dermal cure," says Hebrew University researcher and PhD student Maya Ben-Yehuda Greenwald, in a news release. "The formula we have created could be used in topical medication for treating skin conditions. Our formula could be used both as preventive means and for treatment of various skin conditions, such as infections, over-exposure to UV irradiation, inflammatory conditions, and also internal disease."

The new article is published in Cosmetics.

PHOTO CREDIT: Maya Ben-Yehuda Greenwald