Could The Extract From A Rare Swiss Apple REALLY Get Rid Of Your Wrinkles?

By LEAH HARDY FOR MAILONLINE 
Dailymail.co.uk 30 November 2009

Surprisingly, it all started with an apple. A dull, sour apple, almost extinct, living quietly on a rare tree in a remote part of Switzerland. 

Now, that humble apple is a big celebrity, with fans such as Michelle Obama, Helen Mirren and Jennifer Lopez. 

It spends its time among beautiful people in swanky department stores. Why? Because this Swiss fruit is at the centre of what's being described as a 'revolution' in anti-ageing treatments. 

It's claimed this ingredient can reverse skin ageing, increase the lifespan of human cells, and may even make it possible to grow back lost hair.

I'm used to hyperbole in the beauty world, but this new development is really getting the cosmetics companies excited. 

They believe they have the science to prove that plant stem cells can be incorporated in skin creams, will interact with human skin stem cells, and can eliminate wrinkles and make skin look younger.

Human stem cells can turn into any part of the body and so are big news in medical research, but the law bans the use of embryonic stem cells in cosmetics. 

So, instead, researchers turned their attention to plants. These also produce stem cells throughout their lives, both to grow, as a response to an injury. 

The biggest 'star' in the stem cell world is called PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica. 

Derived from a rare 18th-century species of apple tree, the Uttwiler Spatlauber, it first attracted attention, as it could be kept for months without withering.

In a paper published in the cosmetics industry journal, the Journal Of Applied Sciences, Swiss scientists noted: 'These apples must have especially long-living tissue stem cells. Could we profit from these stem cells? 

'What would be the effect of an extract of such long-living stem cells on the skin?' 

To find out, scientists cut pieces of the apple, which responded by forming a protective 'callous' made of plant stem cells on the surface. 

These cells were grown in a liquid culture and put to the test. A solution containing one per cent apple stem cells seemed to boost cell production of human stem cells by a staggering 80per cent. 

Beautiful to the core: Helen Mirren, left, and Jennifer Lopez are said to be fans of the Swiss apple

The human cells were irradiated with UV light, which killed 50 per cent of those grown in a normal liquid culture, but hardly any of those protected by the apple stem cells. 

Also, hair follicles kept in a solution of Uttwiler Spatlauber continued to grow for 18 days, while those kept in a typical solution died after 14. 

And, in tests on 20 women, applying a cream enriched with 2 per cent PhytoCell-Tec Malus Domestica twice a day reduced crows feet by eight per cent after a fortnight, and 15 per cent after four weeks. 

Skincare companies rushed to include it in their ranges. But it doesn't come cheap. 3Lab, from Urban Retreat in Harrods and Selfridges, offers its Super 'h' Serum, £215, and M cream, £185. 

Both contain apple stem cells, as does the company's £70 skin firming and lifting Super C Serum. Lancome has Absolue Precious Cells, £145 for 50ml, an anti-ageing cream it claims will 'help restore the potential of skin stem cells and bring back the skin of youth'.

Emerge Swiss Apple Stem Cell Serum (available online for £72), allegedly 'promotes the selfrenewal capacity of the skin' and in the U.S., youth-hungry celebs such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Julianne Moore all feted the launch of Cellular Lifting Serum from Clark's Botanicals, is £355 for just 30ml. 

But, Professor Liam Dolan, the Sheradian Professor of Botany at Oxford University, who specialises in studying plant cells, is sceptical about the new ingredient. 'I don't see how plant stem cells could interact with human stem cells in this way,' he says. 

But Dr Daniel Schmid, research director of Mibelle Biochemistry, the Swiss lab which developed PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica, insists that his study shows his apple stem cell extracts have been 'shown to improve the maintenance of the stem cells characteristics of epidermal stem cells.' 

He admits: 'The anti-ageing benefit for the skin after topical application could not be confirmed in a clinical trial.' 

But, he adds: 'The extract offers a promise of real skin rejuvenation.' 

Further studies would be needed to prove that plant stem cells truly are as effective on faces as they are in the lab, but in our search for the elixir of youth, a new cream that can peel away the years, dreams tend to win over doubts, and this little apple looks as if it's going to bask in the limelight a little longer yet.

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Apple Stem Cells against Aging Skin: What Does Research Say?

By iftekhar
EmpowHer

In humans, aging causes a reduction of the number of epidermal stem cells required to regenerate healthy new skin and the remaining stem cells function less efficiently. When epidermal stem cells are reduced, lost or dying skin cells outnumber the production of new cells, the skin’s health and appearance suffer.

In recent years, scientists have conducted extensive research on embryonic stem cells, which have shown potential to repair damaged tissues and organs. Because of this potential, researchers have looked into using stem cells in skincare care products to help repair wrinkles and restore and maintain firmness and elasticity.

However, it is not possible to use live human embryonic stem cells in skincare products, so skincare companies have turned to plant stem cells.

Like humans, plants also have stem cells. In theory, plant stem cells can protect the human epidermal stem cells from damage and deterioration, and they can stimulate them to renew the skin. The most promising stem cell so far has come from an apple. A rare type of apple tree, cultivated in Switzerland over 300 years ago, was known for a remarkably long shelf life. A few of these trees were found on a Swiss mountainside. The apples from this tree, known as Uttwiler Spätlaube, contain extremely active stem cells. Scientists have extracted stem cells from this type of apple and have used this extraction.

In a paper published in the Journal of Applied Sciences, the cosmetics industry journal, Swiss scientists observed that these apples formed a protective film made of stem cells on the surface when they cut the apples into pieces. They then grew these “film” cells in a liquid culture and tested them. A solution containing 1% apple stem cells appeared to enhance human stem cell production by 80 percent. In further studies, human cells were irradiated with ultraviolet light, killing 50 percent of those grown in a normal liquid culture, but only a few of the cells protected by the apple stem cells were harmed. In addition, hair follicles placed in a solution of apple stem cells continued to grow for 4 days more than those stored in a control solution.

Finally, in a human trial to determine the effectiveness of a new anti-wrinkle cream, scientiststested a cream containing a 2% Uttwiler Spätlauber extract (patented as PhytoCell-Tec Malus Domestica) and lecithin liposomes. Twenty participants applied this cream twice daily to the areas of their face with crow’s feet for four weeks. It was found that wrinkle depth was reduced by an average of 15% after four weeks (SOFW Journal. 2008;134(5):30-5.) With these results, skincare companies flocked to obtain this new extract for their products.

Numerous products containing apple stem cells were released onto the market, demanding premium prices for this new plant stem cell technology. These products claim to protect longevity of skin cells and combat skin aging. However, plant biologists are skeptical of these claims. Renown plant biologist, Professor Liam Dolan of Oxford University has been quoted as saying he does not see how plant stem cells could react with human cells.

The research director of Mibelle Biochemistry, Dr Daniel Schmid, the Swiss lab that developed PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica, maintains that his research has shown that theapple stem cell extracts have improved the abilities of epidermal stem cells to maintain their rejuvenation capabilities and longevity. Dr. Schmid did admit, however, that the anti-aging effects were not proven by clinical trials. Dr. Gary Goldfaden, a board-certified clinical dermatologist, and founder of Academy Dermatology in Hollywood, FL, and COSMESIS Skin Care wrote an article in 2009 for Life Extension Magazine, reporting the amazing benefits of PhytoCell-Tec Malus Domestica and relating the results of Dr. Schmid’s research. However, Dr. Goldfaden did state that other ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, red seaweed extract, and an antioxidant tea blend are blended with the apple stem cell extract. Hyaluronic acid has been researched extensively and used as an anti-aging agent on skin for years. The presence of this chemical alone should raise skepticism of the efficacy of this apple stem cell extract.

In addition, a preliminary search on Google Scholar resulted in only one peer-reviewed article regarding plant stem cells and skin cell longevity within the last six years, and it happened to be Dr. Schimd’s study. Clearly, further research is necessary to prove claims that PhytoCell-Tec Malus Domestica extract or any other plant stem cell extract can improve cell regeneration and longevity in human skin.

Apple Stem Cells - Truth in Aging

Reviewed by: Sarah K

Truth in Aging

I’m the first one to admit that I’m far too trusting, which makes me an excellent target for scammers. And, unfortunately, the beauty industry is full of them. There are swindling schemers all over the place just itching to promote or invent some life altering new product that promises the world - and the newest promise involves apple stem cells. How many anti-aging serums have you spent money on only to discover they’re for naught? How many times have you read the label on a “natural” product only to discover some not so natural chemical ingredients? Probably too many.

About a year ago, Marta wrote about apple stem cell cream. Though her initial write up was dismissive, she thought it was only fair to see if any new research has surfaced that may clear the seemingly inconceivable product’s name.

I was excited when I first began to research apple stem cells. According to an article by Dr. Gary Goldfaden published in Life Extension Magazine, plant-derived stem cells are absolutely the way to combat aging skin. In rural Switzerland, an 18th century tree (or two or three) stands. The apples that these ancient trees produce happen to stay fresh for a very long period of time. Apparently, scientists have taken these long-living apples and extracted long-living stem cells from them, which just happen to be anti-aging.

Yes, I believed it. But in my defense, so did Marta! Until she discovered that that Dr. Goldfaden is the inventive manufacturer of Goldfaden Stem Cell Serum. On top of that, in the LEM published article, the good doctor calls the magical Swiss apples Uttwiler Spätlauber. A quick Google search for “Uttwiler Spätlauber” showed plenty of results – all for a skincare ingredient invented by the cosmetics industry.

In light of my newfound skepticism and secure in the knowledge that Dr. Goldfaden is clearly biased, I decided to research Life Extension Magazine, which is published by the Florida-based Life Extension Foundation. Interestingly (though perhaps not surprisingly), the nonprofit corporation Quackwatch listed the Life Extension Foundation as a “Questionable Organization.” Of course, my misgivings multiplied at this point.

Going back to Uttwiler Spätlauber, I came across a few articles that claimed that the BSB Innovation Prize in actives/naturals was awarded to Mibelle Biochemistry, the creator of PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica (also known as the long-living stem cell producing apples). That sounded quite impressive to me; after all, if the company that created this anti-aging apple stem cell product had won a prize for its work, there must be some validity to its invention.

The problem is, I can’t seem to find much information on the BSB prize, except the facts and claims made on the BSB website. However, I do know that in order to be considered for the Innovation prize in the naturals or “raw materials” category, a company need not send in samples of their product. In fact, the invitation for applications for the prize asks that no samples be sent at all. Apparently, Mibelle won the prize by submitting electronic documents for review.

This information demerits Mibelle’s achievement of claiming the BSB prize, at least in my eyes. If those awarding the prize did not test samples of the apple stem cells, then Mibelle basically won an award for having a good idea. In all likelihood, the company has evidence, research, and trial studies to back up their good idea, but until there is hard proof or independent scientific research done, I’m not buying it as anything more than an appealing, futuristic concept.

Still, prominent newspapers and magazines are reporting on the astounding anti-aging qualities of this “Super Apple.” Companies including 3Lab, Clark’s Botanicals, Chantecaille, and Lancôme have all come out with their own apple stem cell creams. And they’re charging hundreds of dollars for this youth captured in a lotion, which prominent people like Michelle Obama are using to combat wrinkles.

Though I’m absolutely still skeptical about the efficacy of apple stem cells when it comes to protecting skin and preventing wrinkles, I certainly don’t think Mibelle’s claims are out of the realm of possibility. I know that some of you have tried products with apple stem cells as a key ingredient. What are they, and have they worked for you? Are the apple stem cells included in the first few ingredients?

Stem Cells in Skin Care... What does it really mean?

By Jeanette Jacknin M.D. - World Health.Net

Stem cells have recently become a huge buzzword in the skincare world. But what does this really mean? Skincare specialists are not using embryonic stem cells; it is impossible to incorporate live materials into a skincare product.  Instead, companies are creating products with specialized peptides and enzymes or plant stem cells which, when applied topically on the surface, help protect the human skin stem cells from damage and deterioration or stimulate the skin's own stem cells.  National Stem Cell was one of the few companies who actually incorporated into their skin care an enzyme secreted from human embryonic stem cells, but they are in the process of switching over to use non-embryonic stem cells from which to take the beneficial enzyme. 

 Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. When a stem cell divides, it can remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a skin cell. There are two types of stem cells, embryonic and adult.

Embryonic stem cells are exogenous in that they are harvested from outside sources, namely, fertilized human eggs. Once harvested, these pluripotent stem cells are grown in cell cultures and manipulated to generate specific cell types so they can be used to treat injury or disease.

Unlike embryonic stem cells, adult or multipotent  stem cells are endogenous. They are present within our bodies and serve to maintain and repair the tissues in which they are found. Adult stem cells are found in many organs and tissues, including the skin. In fact, human skin is the largest repository of adult stem cells in the body. Skin stem cells reside in the basal layer of the epidermis where they remain dormant until they are activated by tissue injury or disease. 1

There is controversy surrounding the use of stem cells, as some experts say that any product that claims to affect the growth of stem cells or the replication process is potentially dangerous, as it may lead to out-of-control replication or mutation. Others object to using embryonic stem cells from an ethical point of view.  Some researchers believe that the use of stem cell technology for a topical, anti-aging cosmetic trivializes other, more important medical research in this field.

 The skin stem cells are found near hair follicles and sweat glands and lie dormant until they "receive" signals from the body to begin the repair mode. In skincare, the use of topical products stimulates the stem cell to split into two types of cells: a new, similar stem cell and a "daughter" cell, which is able to create almost every kind of new cell in a specialized system. This means that the stem cell can receive the message to create proteins, carbohydrates and lipids to help repair fine lines, wrinkles and restore and maintain firmness and elasticity.1

 First to the market in Britain in April 2007 and the U.S. was ReVive's Peau Magnifique,  priced at a staggering £1,050. Manufacturers claim it uses an enzyme called telomerase to "convert resting adult stem cells to newly-minted skin cells' and 'effectively resets your skin's "ageing clock" by a minimum of five years'.  The product claims long-term use 'will result in a generation of new skin cells, firmer skin with a 45 per cent reduction in wrinkles and increased long-term skin clarity'.  Peau Magnifique is the latest in a line of products developed by Dr Gregory Bays Brown, a former plastic surgeon.

In the course of his research into healing burns victims, Dr Brown discovered a substance called Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) that is released in the body when there is an injury, and, when applied to burns or wounds, dramatically accelerates the healing process.  He believed the same molecule could be used to regenerate ageing skin and went on to develop ReVive, a skincare range based around it. 2

 Hot on the heels of Peau Magnifique was Amatokin by Voss Laboratories. Amatokin was marketed by the same people behind the StriVectin craze and launched exclusively at Bloomingdale's. Amatokin works by stimulating the adult stem cell reservoirs in our skin to help rejuvenate it. From the day we are born, our skin experiences the incremental and cumulative effects of intrinsic and extrinsic aging. When we are young, stem cell utilization for skin rejuvenation functions efficiently. As we age, it reduces significantly. Given the proper environment, these inherent stem cell reservoirs can be stimulated to renew the skin. 3

 Studies show that aging and damage from UV rays and pollution cause a decrease in stem-cell production. Pincelli and LVMH laboratories in 2008 identified key ingredients with the ability to protect the stem cells from external factors and produced Dior's Capture R60/80 XP  In lab tests, skin samples collected from cosmetic-surgery patients showed more stem cells in the areas where cream had been applied. because it  protects existing stem cells from damage, not because it increased the number of stem cells..  Says Dr. Pincelli 'That power is absolutely vital for epidermal regeneration and for maintaining the skin's youthful appearance'. 4

 According to Petrikovsky, fetal skin heals in a completely different way to adult

"Adult skin heals via an inflammatory response, involving macrophages and type 1 collagen. On the other hand, fetal skin, when it is healing, relies heavily on the skin's stem cells and fibroblasts". One of the most important differences between adult and fetal skin is the fact that fetal skin heals without scarring. A wrinkle is a small wound, For this reason Petrikovsky has been looking at ways we can activate the adult stem cells in the skin to perform in similar ways to those in fetal skin. One substance he has found that can upregulate the stem cell activity of adult skin is Peptide 199, an amino acid chain derived from the Wharton Jelly, a gelatinous substance found in the umbilical cord. This upregulation ensures the fibroblast dominance over the inflammatory process during skin repair, mimicking the process that occurs in fetal skin, healing without a scar or wrinkle.5

Emerge Labs new Swiss Apple Stem Cell Serum allows plant stem cells to preserve and protect skin stem cells. PhytoCellTech® - a novel plant cell culture technology has been invented to cultivate dedifferentiated callus cells from a rare Swiss apple. These apple stem cells are rich in epigenetic factors and metabolites, assuring the longevity of skin cells. The Skin Stem Cell Serum protects longevity and combats chronological aging while delaying senescence of skin cells, preserving the youthful look and vitality of one's skin. 

The Institute for Biotechnological Research (IRB) has released an anti-aging ingredient based onedelweiss stem cells.  "As edelweiss grows in harsh climates it is obliged to produce a number of active substances that help protect against the elements such as UV rays," IRB's Francesca Melandri says.  The edelweiss active harnesses the protective substances the plant uses to defend itself against harsh climatic and environmental conditions and uses them to protect the skin,. According to the Italian company. the ingredient, Leontopodium alpinum stems, has high concentrations of leontopodic acids A and B which have strong antioxidant properties. IRB also claims the product has strong anti-collagenase and hyaluronidase actvity, therefore helping to limit the degradation of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin.

The company uses what it refers to as its HTN technology to produce the ingredients in industrial quantities.  A small amount of plant biomass is chopped into tiny pieces and placed in a culture medium. Damaging the plant in this way causes the cells that surround the damage to de-differentiate (to turn back into stem cells) and form a wound healing tissue called the callus.

The callus is then harvested and grown in a cell culture medium and from this IRB obtains the plant stem cells and consequently the secondary metabolites they need for their products.

Although the technology is well known, the challenge lies in successfully scaling up the production of the stem cells to industrial quantities - a problem IRB claims to have solved with its HTN technology. 6

XTEMcell Stem Cell SkinCare has come out with its Cell Renewal Night Cream, Reset Serum,  Cell Rebuilding Daytime Cream, and Repair Eye Contour Cream

According to the company, XtemCell's Patented Stem Cell Technology uses active plant cells from rare, 100% organic, nutrient-rich plants to create new cells of the highest in purity and nutrients. These new cells are able to deliver high concentrations of lipids, proteins, amino-acids and phytoalexins. They are easily absorbed into the outermost cells of the epidermis, allowing for almost immediate skin cell renewal, nutrient absorption, and an increase in the skin's level of filaggrin proteins. According to the company, "conventional plant cell extraction is only able to obtain these nutrients in smaller and far less potent quantities. Traditional plant cell cloning uses harsh chemicals or pollutants to reproduce active cells.

XTEMcell products are made from cloned stem cells from the date palm, chosen for cloning because of its unparalleled ability to live and thrive in the desert in the driest, most arid areas and be able to remain hydrated and conserve water. Xtemcell cloned these desirable properties and created a series of age-maintenance skincare products that contain 100% organic stem cells that promote a superior moisturization of the skin.

National Stem Cell is pursuing a different route to younger looking skin. It's subsidiary Decouverte Cosmetique is producing anti-aging products that incorporate tropelastin secreted from human embryonic stem cells.  National Stem Cell changed its name to Proteonomix a month after launching a stem cell based cosmeceutical line in Aug 2008.7

The company claims the ingredient enhances the natural formation of collagen and binds with existing protein chains in the skin to make it appear smoother and firmer.

Tropelastin already affects skin appearance naturally in pregnant women. The inspiration for the products came from the natural glow of women post-conception, caused by the release of the chemical from embryonic stem cells.

The company says that the products escape the health risk warning flags out because they do not affect the growth of stem cells. However, the products formulated by Decouverte Cosmetique may be particularly controversial from an ethical or moral point of view because the active ingredient is sourced from human embryonic stem cells. However, National Stem Cell says that all the stem cells used were harvested before 2001 and none were destroyed or created in the development of the products. The company is also in the final stages of discovering how to source the key material from non-embryonic stem cells thereby weakening the ethical barrier to commercialization. 8

Thus we can see that there are already many choices in skin care products with specialized peptides and enzymes or plant stem cells which, when applied topically stimulate the skin's own stem cells.  Expect many more good choices to be developed in the years to come!

References

1. Stem Cells in Skin Care...www.Carefair.com

2. Coleman, Claire, "Could stem cell cream be future of face care?" www.dailymail.co.uk 3/20/07

3. Ruscitton, Cynthia" Stem Cell Technology Enters the Anti-Aging Skin Care Market",http://www.ezinearticles.com, 4/18/07

4. Hancock, Liz, "Facing the future", www.Telegraph.co.uk., 1/11/08

5. Bird, Katie " Stem cell technology is the ‘new age of anti-aging' skincare, say top scientists at HBA", www.Cosmeticsdesign.com 9/10/08

6. Bird, Katie, "Edelweiss stem cells could help in the fight against ageing",www.Cosmeticsdesign.com, 10/22/08

7. Montague-Jones, Guy, Biotech firm changes name after stem cell cosmetics launch", Cosmeticsdesign.com. 8/26/08

8. Montague-Jones, Guy "National Stem Cell exploits anti-aging qualities of stem cells", www.Cosmeticsdesign.com, 4/24/08

Apple Stem Cell Benefits For The Skin

September 8, 2014 by Diana Ralys

What are Stem Cells? How can it rejuvenate the skin? How do Apple Stem Cells work?

 Researchers and scientists were conducting extensive studies over the past few decades, on the power of stem cells to repair damaged human tissues, to regenerate injured or diseased organs, spinal cords and other seriously debilitating conditions.  Stem cells are capable of renewing themselves indefinitely, they are not coded to be specifically anything, and can transform into many different types of cells, and are therefore useful throughout the entire body, including skin.

 Skin naturally begins to thin out as we age.  Epidermal stem cell supplies become depleted, new cell production slows down significantly, and skin starts to show signs of aging, including loss of elasticity, thinning and wrinkling.

 Plants also have stem cells. Scientists are researching how plant Stem Cells can be used to help human cells to rejuvenate and repair. Swiss Apple tree is used to produce Apple Stem Cells to be used in skin care products. This particular tree has an amazingly long life! Products developed with these Stem Cells, especially when combined with Hyaluronic Acid and Peptides, has shown undeniably positive benefits.

 Apple Stem cell Benefits for the skin:

• protects skin cells from the damaging effects of UV rays;
• promotes new healthy skin cell formation to prevent age related skin degradation;
• benefits are accumulative, the longer you use the better results will be received;
• skin firming,
• cell rejuvenation,
• skin rebuilding,
• moisturizing,
• increases skin’s elasticity,
• reduces appearance of wrinkles;
• Increase skin’s cell vitality and longevity;
• Repairs damaged tissue;
• Targets premature aging and fine lines
• Reverses environmental damage.

Plant Stem Cells: Breaking New Ground in Skincare

Plant stem cell research is an exciting frontier in skincare.

Written By:
Ash Sukumar
WholeFoods Magazine

Many people would like to remain eternally young and radiant. While no magic bullet will stop the aging process, some researchers believe a new field of skincare can slow the signs of aging. Advanced research has found a positive link between plant stem cell extracts and anti-aging/anti-wrinkling processes.

Stem Cells and Skin
Stem cells are un-programmed cells that can change into cells with specific functions. They have the capacity to replenish themselves through self-renewal and also the ability to divide almost limitlessly. Cutting-edge research on plant stem cells (which are different from the controversial human stem cells studies) have demonstrated some promising health benefits to human skin. A new hope for problems such as wrinkles, visible capillaries and sun damage, plant stem cells have proven to support the skin’s cellular turnover.

Environmental toxins, excessive sun exposure and improper nutrition can result in prematurely aged and damaged skin. As a way to address such issues, stem cells of apples and edelweiss, among others, are increasingly integrated into skincare products (1).

The Apple of Your Eye
The once nearly extinct Uttwiler spatlauber apple tree was the biggest inspiration for using plant stem cell extracts in skincare products. Once picked, the apples from this Swiss tree lasted for months and when the skin was scratched or punctured while still on the tree, it quickly healed. Scientists unearthed the reason: unusually resilient stem cells.

Unlike most human cells, each plant-derived stem cell can generate a whole new plant. Scientists have found a way to tap into this ability by culturing U. spatlauber plant cells. A new technique used by one industry company (1) involves taking viable tissue (called an explant) from a source plant. A small cut is made in the explant and new cells (called the callus) form on the surface of this cut in an attempt to heal the wound.

The apple’s stem cells may help protect human stem cells, nourishing and defending them from UV radiation. The anti-wrinkle efficacy of this apple stem cell ingredient was demonstrated in a clinical trial over four weeks with 20 subjects. A cream containing 2% of the ingredient was applied twice daily to the crow’s feet area and the wrinkle depth was analyzed after two and four weeks. Photos of the skin were taken at the beginning and the end of the study. The cream was found to significantly reduce wrinkle depth after two and after four weeks, by 8% and 15% respectively (2, 3).

Good News: Edelweiss!
The edelweiss plant grows in harsh climatic conditions and produces active substances that can protect against harmful components such as UV rays. The Institute for Biotechnological Research in Italy has studied edelweiss stem cells for its anti-aging benefits. The protective substances of the plant are used to guard the skin, as it is used in the plant itself. The edelweiss cells contain high concentrations of Leontopodic acids A and B, which exhibit strong antioxidant properties. The firm also reports that the anti-aging ingredient helps control the degradation of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin. The ingredient is prepared by cutting a small amount of plant biomass into tiny pieces and placing it in a culture medium. The plant stem cells surround the cut and form a wound healing tissue (the callus), which can be used in skincare products (3).

A Date to Remember
Some skincare products are also being made from date palm stem cells because of the plant’s supreme ability to live and thrive in dry, arid environments. The date palm also has the ability to remain hydrated and conserve water, which is a desirable characterisic for skincare products. Products containing organic date palm stem cells are said to keep the skin very moist (3).     

The Future with Stem Cells
Plant stem cell research is a promising and exciting frontier in skincare. More plants such as Gotu Kola are being investigated for use in skincare products, too. Primarily used in Indian traditional medicine, Gotu Kola stem cells were found to be helpful in firming and restructuring the skin, addressing stretch marks, controlling cellulite, and supporting good blood vessel tone all without the use of toxins. Today, customers benefit from the use of plant stem cell skincare products in various forms such as brightening and calming serums, eye creams etc. (4, 5). As research develops, this promising skincare segment will continue to grow and flourish. WF

References
1. Mibelle Biochemistry, PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica, www.mibellebiochemistry.com, accessed Nov. 17, 2011.
2. D. Schmid, et al., “Plant Stem Cell Extract for Longevity of Skin and Hair,” Int. J. Applied Sci. 134(5), 30-5 (2008).
3. J. Jacknin, “Stems Cells in Skin Care…What Does it Really Mean?”www.worldhealth.net/news/stem_cells_in_skin_care_what_does_it_rea/, accessed Oct. 28, 2011.
4. MyChelle Dermaceuticals, “Revolutionary Plant Stem Cell Bioactive Ingredients,” www.mychelle.com/Revolutionary-Plant-Stem-Cell-Bioactive-Ingredients, accessed Oct. 28, 2011.
5. Reviva Labs, “Stem Cell Booster,” www.revivalabs.com/newstore/scripts/prodView.asp?idProduct=227, accessed Nov. 17, 2011.

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, January 2012

Testimonies in Pictures

Plant Stem Cell Technology

Stem Cells are the body’s building block for cellular repair and growth of tissues and organs. Plant stem-cell technology has been a leader in advanced cosmeceuticals for its benefits in skin care. When applied to skin, proteins and other growth factor components in plant stem cells help begin the regeneration process of human stem cells. The regeneration process begins to slow down as we age or exposure to environmental stressors such as ultra-violet rays. emerginC combines apple stem cells in its protocell facial and eye products, and grape stem cells in its scientific organics facial and body collection to fight free radical damage and help improve signs of aging.

Long studied Swiss Apple

The Uttwiler Spätlauber has been a long studied Swiss apple in skin care. Its origins date back to the 18th century, and today, apple cultivation is carefully selected to ensure maximum potency and key benefits. Studies have shown slower rates of oxidation (apple turning brown) occur when an Uttwiler Spätlauber is sliced and exposed to oxygen. Apple stem cells derived from Swiss apples are clinically shown to prevent human skin stem cells from “oxidation”, or free radical damage when exposed to ultra-violet rays by providing antioxidant benefits and renewing stem cells for healthier growth.  Free radicals are unstable molecules which occur through environmental factors such as pollution, UV rays and cigarette smoke. Due to their unstable nature, free radicals attack stable molecules, such as those found in skin, to maintain stability. As a result, cellular breakdown may occur leading to common skin care concerns of photodamage, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture.

The Anti-Wrinkle Effect of Apple Stem Cell

The anti-wrinkle effect of PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica evaluated with 20 volunteers aged from 37 to 64.

An emulsion containing 2% PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica was applied twice daily for 28 days to crow’s feet. Results showed a visible decrease in wrinkle depth for 100% of the subjects.

Gamay Grapes of Burgundy France

Gamay grapes were originally cultivated in the Burgundy of France. The Gamay grapes are known for their rare cultivation and high anthocyanins found in the red color of their skin and juice. Anthocyanins contain powerful antioxidants to help repair and protect skin from ultra-violet rays and sun damage. emerginC uses grape stem cells cultivated from the Gamay grapes to protect skin stem cells from physical and cellular damage which occurs through ultra-violet damage.Incorporating emerginC’s Scientific Organics in a daily at-home skin care regimen will help improve the appearance of skin care concerns associated with aging. 

Stem Cell Colony Efficacy (CFE) and Growth

Graph shows the superior ability of Solar Vitis (grape stem cell) extract to protect epithelial stem cells against UV stress, the leading cause of skin aging.

Applied over time, grape stem cells will help diminish fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin tone and texture.

Source: scientific organics

Stem Cell Technology and the Skin

Issue Number: 

Volume 19 - Issue 3 - March 2011

Author: 

Jennifer Linder, MD

Topics: 

Cosmeceuticals

Cosmetic Dermatology

Medical Resource Centers: 

Cosmetic Dermatology

A look at the current research on plant-derived stem cell extracts and their potential role in cosmeceutical and skin care products. The ability to replace, instead of simply repairing, damaged skin cells is becoming more of a possibility with the advancements in plant stem cell technology. Scientific research supports the use of certain plant stem cell extracts, but further research may be needed to support the efficacy of others. At this time, much of the research focuses on the photoprotective properties of dietary botanicals, citing the potential of topical products that use plant extracts with the same characteristics. Keeping abreast of plant-derived stem cell research as it evolves is essential for making optimal treatment choices as plant stem cell technology is incorporated into anti-aging skin care.

Skin Stem Cells

Before considering the addition of stem cells into cosmeceuticals, it is critical to understand the role of stem cells in the skin. The majority of skin stem cells reside in the basal layer of the epidermis. Their primary function is to replenish the skin as it undergoes normal homeostatis and wound repair.1 Like all stem cells, those in the epidermis are undifferentiated and capable of dividing themselves for extended periods of time and differentiating into multiple data suggests that the loss of a stem cell in lineages based on their tissue origin.1,2 When a stem cell divides, the daughter cells have the potential to either remain a stem cell, like the parent cell, or they can differentiate into cells with a more specialized function known as progenitor cells. After these progenies experience several rapid divisions in the basal layer, they cease dividing and travel through the suprabasal layers to the tissue surface. Once there, they progressively differentiate, switching from expression of one set of keratins to another. Eventually their nuclei degener- ate, producing an outer layer of dead keratinized cells that are shed. Stem cells continuously renew the epidermis, with a turnover time of approximately 1 month.2 Epidermal stem cells also are stored in a microenvironment called the bulge, which is located at the base of the hair follicle. They remain dormant there until recruited by neighboring cells to help repair the skin. The stem cell’s characteristics are determined by the epigenetic signal it receives. The existence of several distinct, highly compartmentalized stem cell populations have been reported in the literature3,4 The data suggests that the loss of a stem cell in one structural unit is quickly replaced by stem cells in the adjacent unit, which demonstrates the multipotential nature and developmental flexibility of skin cells.5

Skin Cell Damage

Although the skin constantly renews itself throughout an adult’s lifetime, these long-term self-renewing stem cells begin to regenerate more slowly as part of the aging process. It is believed that the im- paired wound healing rate in aging skin may be due either to impaired stem cell mobilization or a reduced number of stem cells able to respond to proliferative signals.3 Lost or dying cells begin to outnumber their regenerated counterparts, which likely leads to common signs of aging, such as rhytids and laxity. It is for this reason that stem cells make intriguing additions to anti-aging products. Additionally, ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes damage to the skin, including photoaging, inflammation, erythema, sunburn and cancers.6-9 Photoaging is characterized by wrinkles, altered pigmentation and loss of skin tone. Specifically, ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation have been proven to produce DNA damage directly and indirectly through oxidative stress.10 Solar radiation induces the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which interact with proteins, lipids and DNA, altering cellular functions. Although the epidermis is composed primarily of keratinocytes that are rich in ROS detoxifying enzymes, an increased generation of ROS can overwhelm the skin’s natural defenses. Furthermore, ROS have been shown to mediate the phosphorylatin of protein kinases through a series of cascades, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), and activate transcription factors, such as nuclear factor-KB (NF-kB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1).These activities may con- tribute to cell proliferation, apoptotic cell death, inflammation and cancer.10,11 The upregulatation of gene expression through intracellular signal transduction pathways likely contributes to the development of skin cancer at the tumor promotion stage.10 Since this stage is reversible, it is a prime target for preventing, reversing or slowing the process. Stem cells have been proven to be protective against UV-induced radiation and ROS through a variety of mechanisms. It is this protective quality that also makes them useful for daily use in skin care.

Plant Stem Cells Benefit Human Skin

In recent years, researchers have identified naturally occurring botanicals with substantial antioxidant activity proven to protect skin stem cells from UV-induced oxidative stress, inhibit inflammation, neutralize free radicals and reverse the effects of photoaging. Consequently, cosmeceutical products containing extracts derived from plant stem cells have the ability to promote healthy cell proliferation and protect against UV-induced cellular damage in humans. In contrast to epidermal stem cells, plant stem cells are totipotent, meaning they are capable of regenerating an entirely new, whole plant. Through innovative plant stem cell technology, scientists are able to extract tissue from botanicals. Thus, the plant’s ability to regenerate stem cells can be harnessed for use in humans. The use of stem cells derived from botanicals, rather than human stem cells, avoids the controversy surrounding the source or methods of extraction of human stem cells while still harnessing the potential of these intriguing cells.

Related: Five New Psoriasis Research Findings

Research Supports Plant Stem Cell Extracts

There are several plant-derived stem cell extracts available for cosmeceutical use; however, research has predominately focused on three with various levels of scientific rigor. Components found in grape, lilac and Swiss apple have been shown to be rich sources of phyto stem cells. Probably the most widely and longest studied botanical is the vitis vinifera, otherwise known as the grape seed. Studies dating back more than a decade suggest that grape seeds are known to contain anti-inflammatory properties, prevent skin aging, scavenge oxygen free radicals and inhibit UV radiation-induced activity. 12 More recently published in vitro and in vivo studies have identified proanthocyanidins — a group of polyphenolic bioflavonoids — in grape seeds and their stem cells as being responsible for its high anti-tumor-promoting activity because of their strong antioxidant effect.11-17 The mechanism of action is not entirely understood, but it appears that the photo- protective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSPs) are mediated, at least, through protection of the endogenous antioxidant defense system and prevention of photodamage of macromolecules, lipids, proteins and DNA, which leads to inhibition of activation of the MAPK and NF- kB pathways.11,16 Some studies have demonstrated that GSPs exert a significantly stronger oxygen free radical scavenging effect than vitamins C and E. 18,19 When topically applied, GSPs have demonstrated substantial photoprotective effects. As an example, when a gel formation containing Jacquez grapes was topically applied to healthy human volunteers, it afforded significant in vivo protection against UVB light-induced skin erythema.20 Like grape seed, verbascoside extracted from various plants, including the syringa vulgaris or common lilac, is known to have antioxidant properties.21,22 When studied in vitro and in vivo, verbascoside was found to possess significantly accelerated wound healing and remarkable anti-inflammatory action.23 These effects were attributed to its ability to inhibit the ROS release by recruiting pro-inflammatory cells to the damaged skin. In fact, the verbascoside-containing extracts were found to be more effective than both hydrocortisone and triamcinolone in inhibiting inflammation.23 Although verbascoside is known to rapidly repair DNA oxidative damage, its mechanism of action is not clearly understood. In one study, verbascoside dramatically impaired NF-kB and AP-1 binding activity, suggesting that it has distinct mechanisms in the suppression of oxidative stress induced in keratinocytes by different stimuli.24 Thus, verbascoside may offer protection of the skin from both inflammatory and environmental insults. However, other studies attribute verbascoside’s ability to quickly repair DNA damage to its non-enzymatic fast repair mechanisms and not to its scavenging activity for ROS.25-27 Its fast repair reaction has the added benefit of preventing the ROS from causing further damage. While other plant stem cell extracts are currently being used in topical products, further research should be done to prove the efficacy.An ingredient manufacturer’s study showed that a 0.1% concentration of stem cells extracted from Swiss apple stimulated the proliferation of human stem cells by 80%.28 In a trial with 20 patients,a cream containing the apple extract was found to reduce wrinkle depth by 8% after 2 weeks and 15% after 4 weeks. Similarly, a cream and serum containing stem cells extracted from the edelweiss plant, which has been investigated for its anti-inflammatory properties, is reported to reduce wrinkle depth. Additional research is needed to verify the validity of these studies.

Extracts Can Enhance Topical Products

Currently, much of the scientific research focuses on the use of dietary botanicals. However, many researchers acknowledge the potential benefits of their use in sunscreens, skin care topicals and moisturizing creams. The key to developing effective cosmeceutical products is recognizing that the various plants have different properties as well as different mechanisms of action. Thus, products should be formulated to target the specific botanical’s effects. As an example, both grape seed and verbascoside have been proven to protect skin from UV oxidative stress. Although sunscreens are incredibly valuable, their inability to completely prevent UV-induced skin cancer — due to inadequate patient use and incomplete spectral protection — demonstrates the need for additional chemopreventive methods.29 Using sunscreens in conjunction with phyto stem cell-rich ingredients harnesses the photoprotective properties of these plants, which may be useful in providing additional prevention against UV-induced skin damage and other skin disorders caused by UV radiation.17,29 For example, components of grape stem cell extract have been shown to absorb radiation from the entire UVB spectrum and part of the UVA spectrum, and when applied topically they can provide additional protection against radiation penetration.28Additionally, these stem cell-rich botanicals are known to inhibit inflammation and combat destructive free radical injury that leads to photoaging. Combining stem cell extracts from grape and lilac leaf with other anti-aging ingredients, such as neuropeptides, L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and alpha hydroxy acids, can yield an ideal combination that can work synergistically to treat and protect the skin. As the scientific support for plant-derived stem cell research continues to grow, it is important to understand what these botanicals offer and how they work. In doing so, plant stem cell extracts scientifically proven to work can be incorporated into cosmeceutical products that hold the promise of not only stimulating the proliferation of human skin stem cells, but also protecting the skin from UV-induced oxidative damage. Dr. Linder, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs skin cancer surgeon,is a volunteer Clinical Instructor in the Department of Dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Linder is currently in private practice in Scottsdale,AZ. Disclosures: Dr. Linder is Chief Scientific Officer, PCA SKIN, is National Instructor, Dermik Aes- thetics (Sculptra), and National Instructor, Aller gan Facial Aesthetics.