フォーラム
Dermatologic Anti-Aging Research Forum
Envisioning the Future of Skin Anti-Aging Through Epidermal Stem Cells
-
From Anti-Aging to Skin Cancer Prevention: Epidermal Stem Cells Spark Global Academic Interest
Amid mounting evidence of the multiple benefits of epidermal stem cells—ranging from anti-aging effects to cancer preventive potential—the academic community recently gathered to explore these breakthroughs. World-renowned stem cell biologists and Korea's leading dermatologic anti-aging experts convened at the 1st Skin Anti-Aging Research Forum, co-hosted by the Korean Society for Dermatologic Anti‑Aging and D.E.R.M.A, on the 7th at Dragon City Hotel, Seoul.
The event aimed to share the latest research trends in skin stem cells and discuss the future of dermatologic anti-aging and cosmetic treatments. About 100 international and domestic scholars attended, contributing to a highly energized atmosphere. -
Keynote: Exploring Cellular Heterogeneity in Adult Human Skin
Dr. Fiona Watt—a global authority in stem cell biology, Director at EMBL and Board Member of EMBO—delivered the keynote lecture. Drawing on data from the Human Cell Atlas (HCA), a large-scale international initiative started in 2016, she highlighted the functional diversity of skin cells.
Dr. Watt emphasized that keratinocytes and fibroblasts are not uniform, but consist of many functionally distinct subtypes. Analysis of over 600,000 skin cells—including samples from healthy individuals as well as patients with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis—raises hopes for applications beyond anti-aging, even extending to treatment of skin diseases.
She further unveiled research using non-invasive imaging, such as optical coherence tomography, to analyze skin cell composition and vascular density. Integrating these imaging findings with single-cell data may enable diagnosis of skin conditions—at the cellular level—without biopsy. -
Unveiling Basement Membranes in Wound Healing & Anti-Aging
Professor Jung‑won Shin of Seoul National University Bundang Hospital delivered a lecture titled “Unveiling Basement Membranes: New Frontiers in Wound Healing and Anti‑Aging.” He discussed recent findings on the epidermal basement membrane—a thin layer between epidermis and dermis that supports epidermal stem cells, regulates signaling pathways, and influences cell differentiation and proliferation. He noted, “When the basement membrane is damaged by aging, it impairs the production of key substances like collagen and elastin... Strengthening or restoring the basement membrane may be an excellent method to improve age-related wrinkles and loss of elasticity.” -
Clinical Insights into Epidermal Stem Cell Activation
Dr. Nak‑kyung Roh, Director at Leaders Dermatology Clinic (Cheongdam), closed the forum with a lecture titled “Epidermal Stem Cell Activation: Implications in Cosmetic Dermatology.” He introduced innovative approaches—such as RF devices stimulating the papillary and reticular dermis in combination with skin booster injections, electromagnetic and extrinsic shockwave therapies—that activate epidermal stem cells. He also underscored the clinical importance of dedicating research toward epidermal stem cell biology, resonating deeply with the audience. -
Leadership Reflections
Dr. Kwang‑ho Han, President of the Korean Society for Dermatologic Anti‑Aging, remarked, “In the fast‑evolving skin anti‑aging sector, sharing the latest research and reflecting on our roles as experts is essential. Discussing the future of anti‑aging through the lens of skin stem cells at this single gathering was tremendously meaningful for our members.” -
Toward a Global Academic Platform
The Korean Society for Dermatologic Anti‑Aging declared its intent to build on this Forum as a springboard toward more active global exchange with international scholars. -
Source: Health Kyunghyang
www.k-health.com