Polish collaboration to develop new anti-ageing products based on mitochondria research

The Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology in Warsaw has joined forces with Dr Irena Eris Cosmetic Laboratory to develop the cosmetics under a research-industry consortium, generated by applying the results of research on mitochondria bioenergetics and biochemistry.

Mitochondria are responsible for important life functions; amongst others they produce the adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a chemical compound which is the main carrier of chemical energy within cells.

Role of mitochondria​

According to the scientists, when researching new cosmetics, it is important that the mitochondria also play a vital role in apoptosis, which is the programmed cell death.

Inhibition of apoptosis, using compounds specifically affecting the mitochondria, may to a significant degree contribute to prolonging cells’ youth along with the tissue formed from the cells, for example the skin.

“We hope to combine the research results of Nencki scientific groups and the experience of Dr Irena Eris Cosmetic Laboratory to develop in a few years innovative and really effective cosmetics with scientifically proven effects”,​ says Professor Adam Szewczyk, director of the Nencki Institute.

Product development​

The research goal of the project is to identify and evaluate compounds, whose interaction with the mitochondria favourably impacts skin cells and slows down damage caused by the oxidative stress.

This will then lead to the production of dermo-protective cosmetics, which will be able to significantly delay skin ageing; said to be on shelves in the next few years.

To carry out this project, the consortium obtained funding under the Applied Research Program executed by the National Centre for Research and Development.

“The Centre cooperates with various research institutions in Poland and worldwide. Research results are presented on international conferences and published in scientific journals, including major scientific periodicals included in the Institute for Scientific Information Master Journal List,”​ says Dr Irena Eris.