Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and premature skin aging

Abstract

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a ubiquitous group of persistent chemicals distributed globally in the environment. Skin aging is a notorious process that is prematurely induced by the interaction between endogenous and exogenous factors, including exposure to environmental chemicals. The existing evidence suggests that skin absorption of PFASs through dermal contact may be an important route of exposure to these chemicals in humans. On the other hand, PFASs intake by other routes may lead to PFASs bioaccumulation in the skin via tissue bio-distribution. Additionally, the presence of PFASs in consumer and cosmetic products combined with their daily close contact with the skin could render humans readily susceptible to dermal absorption. Therefore, chronic low-dose dermal exposure to PFASs can occur in the human population, representing another important route of exposure to these chemicals. Studies indicate that PFASs can threaten skin health and contribute to premature skin aging. Initiation of inflammatory-oxidative cascades, induction of DNA damage such as telomere shortening, dysregulation of genes engaged in dermal barrier integrity and its functions, signaling of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, and last but not least the down-regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components are among the most likely mechanisms by which PFASs can contribute to premature skin aging.

Sesamin attenuates UVA‐induced keratinocyte injury via inhibiting ASK‐1‐JNK/p38 MAPK pathways

“…This stimulates the expression of the transcription factor activator protein 1 (AP-1) resulting in the expression of matrix metalloproteins (MMPs), especially MMP-1, −2, −3, and −9, in keratinocytes, causing increased disruption of ECM. [3][4][5] Antioxidants, as reducing agents, are commonly used to neutralize ROS to prevent the activation of the MAPK pathway and subsequent MMP production that degrades collagen, thereby alleviating skin aging. 6 Botanical UV-absorbing compounds, such as (−)epigallocatechin gallate, chlorogenic acid, curcumin, and santamarine, have emerged as a promising group of antioxidants for reducing the incidence of UV-mediated photoaging.…”

“…Ultraviolet irradiation leads to the activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38, c‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase (JNK), and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, as well as the recruitment of c‐Fos and c‐Jun. This stimulates the expression of the transcription factor activator protein 1 (AP‐1) resulting in the expression of matrix metalloproteins (MMPs), especially MMP‐1, −2, −3, and −9, in keratinocytes, causing increased disruption of ECM 3–5 …”