June 29, 2004

By: Lily Fleming
Website: http://www.1st-in-cosmetics.com

Major discovery links DNA test to reversing signs of aging

LAB21, Inc. announced today that it has filed a patent application with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office on a major discovery relating to methods for linking DNA data from an individual with the creation of a topical formulation that slows down the aging process, and even reverses some of the signs of facial skin aging.

Based on research from LAB21’s team of scientists at its laboratories on the campus of the State University of New York at Stony Brook, it is a major step forward in using information from mitochondrial DNA to restore younger looking skin.

LAB21’s patent-pending technology specifically focuses on linking data from the Hyper Variable Regions 1 and 2 of the D-Loop region of the mitochondrial genome to matrix metalloproteinase activity. This activity is known in the scientific community to degrade collagen, elastin, and other proteins in the skin and other tissue.

These are the primary proteins responsible for skin structure. When they break down, the elasticity of the skin is compromised and skin tends to sag and to form fine lines and wrinkles. LAB21’s discovery inhibits the processes that cause these proteins to break down. Studies have shown that that this allows the body to begin to rebuild collagen and elastin, repairing damage that has been done.

This results in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, improved firmness of the skin, and effectively appears to reverse the signs of aging.

Our patent filing on this discovery is a major milestone in linking information from mitochondrial DNA to reverse signs of aging. This discovery could lead the way in making someone look decades younger, stated Nathaniel Benson, President of LAB21.

LAB21 has developed a proprietary genetic test based on this technology. This test uses cotton swabs to obtain samples from the inner cheek. DNA is extracted and purified and then subjected to polymerase chain reaction amplification reactions. The amplified products then undergo mtDNA sequence analysis. This data is then processed using bioinformatics analysis.

A growing number of dermatologists and plastic surgeons are now administering our DNA tests to their patients. They are using this breakthrough technology either alone or as an adjunct to anti-aging procedures such as Botox and Restylane injections, said Nathaniel Benson.

Preliminary studies indicate this innovation to be significantly more effective than leading topical anti-aging products at reducing signs of aging. This innovation causes none of the adverse reactions such as skin redness, irritation, and photosensitivity, typically found when using topical prescription anti-aging products.

About The Author:

Lily Fleming is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cosmetics.com.  Tips on skin care, hair care and beauty products to bring out natural beauty.