L-Lactate: A Key Player in Skin Aging and Health

Skin Ageing & Challenges - Skin Health

Skin Ageing & Challenges, which will be held on November 7-8 2024 at Corinthia Palace Malta, started the preparation of its annual conference, with a focus on innovative and new research.

In an innovative study recently published in Biogerontology Journal (Springer), researchers explore the intricate world of cellular metabolism and its profound implications for skin aging. This research highlights the key role of l-lactate, a byproduct of anaerobic glucose metabolism, as a crucial signaling molecule in cellular survival mechanisms.

L-Lactate: Beyond a Metabolic Byproduct

Contrary to traditional beliefs, l-lactate emerges as a major regulator in the complex interplay between mitochondria and cellular survival processes. This discovery challenges existing paradigms, suggesting that l-lactate may serve as more than just a metabolic byproduct, but rather as a finely-tuned orchestrator of the aging and survival machinery within cells, potentially through mitohormesis.

The Significance of Reactive Oxygen Species

The study also underscores the significance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in maintaining skin health, particularly in processes like wound repair, renewal, and aging. ROS, including superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide, exhibit a dual nature, capable of both beneficial and detrimental effects depending on their levels and the cellular microenvironment.

Maintaining Skin Health: Balancing ROS Signaling

Maintaining physiological levels of ROS is critical for cutaneous health and efficient wound repair. However, dysregulated redox signaling, characterized by increased ROS production and/or diminished antioxidant defense mechanisms, contributes to chronic skin diseases in the elderly. Conversely, impaired redox modulation impedes wound healing by promoting apoptosis and death of lymphatic and vascular endothelial cells.

Implications for Skin Aging Therapies

This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the delicate balance of ROS signaling in skin health and aging. It highlights the potential therapeutic implications of targeting l-lactate and redox signaling pathways for combating age-related skin issues.

Read the full paper.

Don’t miss the chance to join Skin Ageing & Challenges this November to learn more about the different strategic players in skin aging and health. 

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