December 20, 2004
German Version
DN-AGE® LS 9653 – comprehensive protection for cellular DNA against UV radiation
The increasing intensity of the ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the Earth’s atmosphere as a result of the thinning of the ozone layer is the main cause of DNA damage in human skin. Consumers naturally want to decrease the harmful effects, such as oxidative stress and photo-aging, that UV has on skin cells, and so they are increasingly demanding care products to complement traditional UV protection. Laboratoires Sérobiologiques, the active ingredients business of Cognis Care Chemicals, has now launched DN-AGE LS 9653, a natural way of protecting cellular DNA against UV-induced damage. Its self-regulating protective activity helps the cells to stay “young” by combating the sun’s harmful effects.
Complete protection against UV damage requires protection of both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. UVA primarily damages the mitochondria, while UVB toxicity increases the formation of thymine dimers, an effect which occurs even at low rate, corresponding to daily light exposure. Normally, cells repair UV damage by natural regeneration, but factors such as aging or serious external stress can reduce their ability to do so. DN-AGE LS 9653 is an active ingredient, derived from the leaves of the candle tree (Senna alata (L.) Roxb.) that leverages the plant’s natural defense mechanisms to improve skin protection.
Smart auto-regulating protection for DNA
As a tropical plant that is exposed to high levels of sun, the candle tree has had to develop a phytochemical molecule that protects it against UV radiation. This is called K3OS (Kaempferol-3-O-Sophoroside), and is found in and around the nucleus of the plant’s cells, where it protects nuclear DNA from UV damage. The properties of this natural product are used by Cognis Care Chemicals in its DN-AGE LS 9653 active ingredient, rich in the active tracer K3OS. This both reduces photo-induced damage to nuclear and mitochondrial DNA and supports endogenous repair system by the cell. This sophisticated dual action delivers perceivable benefits to the end user. In particular, it prevents the alteration of microrelief usually caused by UV exposure. In combination with traditional UV filters, it helps cells to protect themselves, and thereby contributes to the normal functioning of cells and tissue even under extreme conditions.
DN-AGE LS 9653 is suitable for a wide range of skin care applications, for example in daily care products that support the skin’s natural defense mechanisms, skin care ranges that combat photo-aging, and anti-aging sun protection products for face and body. As such, it enables manufacturers to make new marketing claims about damage prevention and protection.
Scientifically proven benefits
Efficacy tests have demonstrated DN-AGE LS 9653’s ability to protect both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. It reduces the formation of thymine dimers caused by UVB absorption, and stimulates the natural DNA repair process in skin cells by enhancing Gadd45 gene expression. It supports NER (Nucleotide Excision Repair), the natural process by which cells repair UV-induced damage to their DNA. Both DN-AGE LS 9653, and its K3OS tracer improve the survival rate of cells exposed to UVB radiation and help prevent DNA fragmentation.
Solutions that copy nature
In recent years, the development of new ingredients from natural sources has been an important trend in cosmetics. “In keeping with our guidelines on ecology and sustainability, since 1997 we have evaluated a large number of plants from Africa, Latin America, India and elsewhere in terms of their potential suitability for cosmetic applications,” says Isabelle Benoit, Global Marketing Manager LS. “Value-added natural care ingredients like DN-AGE are gaining market share because their health and anti-aging benefits address consumer demand for products that make a positive contribution to wellness.”
Overview: technical data DN-AGE
- INCI Name: Water (and) Glycerin (and) Cassia Alata Leaf Extract
- Appearance: brown liquid with a characteristic odor
- Dose of use: 1–3%
- Solubility: soluble in water, insoluble in oils and fats
- Mode of incorporation: to be incorporated at temperatures below 60°C during the finishing process, or at room temperature in cold formulations. Optimum pH: 4–7.
About Laboratoires Sérobiologiques
Laboratoires Sérobiologiques is Cognis Care Chemicals’ active ingredients business. It specializes in the development, manufacture and marketing of innovative cosmetic concepts and active ingredients.
About Cognis
Cognis is a worldwide supplier of innovative specialty chemicals and nutritional ingredients. As at September 30, 2004, the company employed about 8,100 people, and it operates production sites and service centers in 30 countries. Cognis has dedicated its activities to a high level of sustainability and delivers natural source raw materials and ingredients for food, nutrition and healthcare markets, and the cosmetics, detergents and cleaners industries. Additionally, Cognis provides solutions for a number of other industries, such as coatings and inks, lubricants, textiles and plastics, as well as agriculture and mining.
Cognis is owned by private equity funds advised by Permira, GS Capital Partners, and Schroder Ventures Life Sciences. In 2003, Cognis recorded sales of 2.95 billion euros and an Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and exceptional items) of 312 million euros.
Contact:
Isabelle Stussi, Communications Laboratoires Sérobiologiques
Division de Cognis France
Phone: +33-3-83299789
e-Mail: isabelle.stussi@cognis.com
Internet: www.laboratoires-serobiologiques.com
Wulf Klüppelholz, Corporate Communications Manager
Cognis Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG
Phone: +49-211-7940-6679
e-Mail: wulf.klueppelholz@cognis.com
Internet: www.cognis.com