Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Anti-Aging and Skin Regeneration

Abstract

Skin aging constitutes a multifaceted physiological process. With the acceleration of global aging, anti-aging and skin regeneration have become research hotspots in aesthetic medicine and regenerative medicine. This paper focuses on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), investigating their diverse mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness, and future development trends in combating skin aging and promoting skin regeneration. This study employs a systematic literature review methodology to analyze the biological characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells and their anti-aging and regenerative mechanisms achieved via paracrine signaling and direct differentiation. It also examines specific application cases in photodamaged skin and difficult-to-heal wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers. Results indicate that MSCs primarily exert their effects through potent paracrine activity. By releasing multiple growth factors, cytokines, and exosomes, they synergistically confer protection against oxidative stress, exert immunomodulatory regulation, promote collagen synthesis, inhibit matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, and stimulate angiogenesis. These multifaceted actions effectively delay skin aging and accelerate wound healing. Despite the broad application prospects of MSCs, further research is still needed in areas such as cell standardization protocols, safety evaluation systems, and cell-free therapeutic strategies.