Scientific Understanding of PDRN Mechanism of Action
Amorepacific researchers focus on the mechanism of action of PDRN to explore its potential in cosmetics. The main pathways of action of PDRN mentioned in the research literature can be largely summarized into two. One is the nucleic acid recycling pathway (salvage pathway), which provides cells with nucleotides that can be reused for the synthesis of new nucleic acids. The other is the pathway through the membrane-bound adenosine receptor (A2AR), which regulates several aspects of tissue homeostasis. [7]
Adenosine A2A receptor activation pathway
PDRN is an agonist that selectively stimulates the adenosine A2A receptor (ADORA2A). [2] When PDRN binds to the adenosine A2A receptor, it regulates inflammatory responses and cell death. This activation inhibits the ROS-induced NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, and the increase in cAMP levels through A2A activation further blocks the MAPK pathway. This has been studied in relation to biological pathways associated with tissue homeostasis and cellular responses. [3][25]
Nucleic acid recycling pathway (Salvage Pathway)
In experiments with cultured fibroblasts, cell growth occurs along with the internalization of PDRN-derived nucleotides, providing purine and pyrimidine rings to the nucleic acid recycling pathway. In fact, damaged or hypoxic tissues are often unable to proceed with the de novo synthesis of DNA. [8] Through this pathway, PDRN serves to efficiently supply cells with the necessary building blocks.
Amorepacific's PDRN Research
Blue PDRN Development
Amorepacific reported research related to skin-condition-supporting biological pathways of PDRN extracted from the microalgae chlorella, and the related research findings were published in the international journal "Archives of Dermatological Research." [5]
Conventional PDRN mostly uses animal-derived ingredients extracted from salmon, trout, and similar marine sources, but Amorepacific focused on the microalgae "Chlorella protothecoides" to produce sustainable, mass-producible non-animal PDRN. [5]
Elucidation of the Mechanism of Action
The Amorepacific R&I Center participated in the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' "Marine Bio Raw Material Formulation Technology Development" project to develop a high-content, low molecular weight PDRN production process, and uncovered the mechanism of action and skin regeneration effect of the substance named "Blue PDRN." According to this research, "Blue PDRN" derived from microalgae significantly enhances the proliferation and migration of skin cells and increases the expression of markers associated with skin structure and condition. [5]
In addition, like conventional animal-derived PDRN, the skin-condition-supporting activity through the adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) mechanism was also confirmed. [5]
Patents and Certifications
Amorepacific applied for a patent for the "Blue PDRN" manufacturing technology, "technology for manufacturing low molecular weight PDRN isolated from microalgae (chlorella) using a continuous modular process," and also received Marine and Fisheries New Excellent Technology (NET) certification and a commendation from the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries. [5]
Expansion into Brand Formulas
This PDRN technology is expanding into various brand formulas. IOPE applies a composite structure combining PDRN and hyaluron, using it as a skin-condition care that simultaneously aims for skin moisturizing, firmness, and barrier improvement. [19]
In addition, through a complex formula combining PDRN with niacinamide and hyaluron, it presents an approach that simultaneously aims for skin condition improvement, tone-up radiance, and barrier strengthening, and this technology is being expanded and applied beyond face-centered skincare to lip care. [20][21]
Meanwhile, through a skincare approach combining retinol and PDRN, Amorepacific is expanding PDRN applications by leveraging its green tea research heritage. [22]
Overall, Amorepacific's PDRN research is evolving beyond single-ingredient development into a skin-booster platform for skin-appearance-related care and condition improvement, through structured progression from securing non-animal high-purity raw materials to designing complex formulas and expanding application across brands.
Realistic Application in Cosmetics
When applying this scientific background to cosmetics, several practical considerations are necessary.
PDRN has been studied in the medical field, particularly in wound recovery and tissue repair. However, results in a medical context do not always directly translate into anti-aging or skin regeneration outcomes. [4][26] Cosmetics work primarily at the skin's surface, and the stratum corneum, and topical PDRN with a larger molecular weight may have more limited skin penetration, so a formulation design that accounts for molecular size reduction or skin permeation is necessary. [11]
Therefore, it is realistic to approach PDRN not as an "all-purpose ingredient" but as "one part of a skincare routine." The perceived effect may vary depending on delivery technology, formulation, and formulation design.
Amorepacific's Research Direction
Amorepacific is researching the potential of PDRN from multiple angles. Based on a deep understanding of skin biology, Amorepacific conducts comprehensive research on delivery technology and formulation stability, and considers the ethical sourcing of raw materials, environmental impact, and long-term skin health from the perspective of sustainable beauty.
Products utilizing PDRN-related technology can be found in Amorepacific brands such as LANEIGE, INNISFREE, AP BEAUTY, and IOPE.
You can learn more about Amorepacific's research and development philosophy and the latest technology trends at the link below.