The anti-wrinkle efficacy of Argireline

Background: Argireline, a synthetic peptide, which is patterned from the N-terminal end of the protein SNAP-25, can both reduce the degree of existing facial wrinkles and demonstrate effectively against their development. In our past studies, we found out that Argireline had a significant anti-wrinkle effect in Chinese subjects and that it was safe and well tolerated. Objective: To observe the effect of Argireline on histological changes in the skin in the aged mice induced by D-galactose. Methods: Argireline was applied to the aged mice twice daily for 6 weeks. The histological changes in skin tissue were evaluated using hematoxylin–eosin (HE) and picrosirius–polarization (PSP) stains. The amount of type I and of type III collagen fibers were also semi-quantitatively compared using software Image-ProPlus. Results: There was an improvement in the histological structure of skin tissue in the aged mice; the amount of type I collagen fibers increased (P < 0.01), while that of type III collagen fibers decreased (P < 0.05). Conclusions: This study revealed that Argireline could improve the histological structure of skin tissue and rejuvenate the aging skin.