Abstract

Objectives: This study examines the DNA methylation changes in human skin after interventions with a non-ablative fractionated laser with the 1940nm wavelength. Both treated and untreated areas of the skin were assessed at various time points to understand the epigenetic alterations that correspond to clinical outcomes in terms of skin rejuvenation and health. Introduction: This study delves into the epigenetic alterations in human skin post-laser intervention using a series of three treatments with a non-ablative fractional laser of the 1940nm wavelength. The primary focus was to understand the changes in DNA methylation patterns between baseline and subsequent follow-ups at 1 and 3 months, assessing both treated and untreated skin regions. The findings are crucial for enhancing our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind laser-induced skin rejuvenation. Materials / method: A cohort of five participants underwent three non-ablative fractional laser treatments with a 1940nm NAFL at monthly intervals. DNA was extracted from skin samples collected at baseline, 1-month after the first treatment, and at 1-month and 3-month post-last-treatment follow-ups. Advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) was employed to analyze the methylation status of cytosine positions across the genome. Statistical analysis identified differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) and regions (DMRs) in response to treatment, supported by enrichment analysis of affected genes and pathways. Results: Significant findings include the identification of a DMC in the promoter region of the gene GNAO1 at the 1-month follow-up. Several DMRs were noted, with one maintaining significance at the 3-month mark. Enrichment analysis pinpointed crucial skin-related genes (e.g., LHX2, NRG2, BNC2, ARID3B, KLF7) and pathways involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, and immune responses. Changes in genes associated with inflammation (LHX2, FGF18) and pigmentation (MITF) correlated with clinical observations of reduced erythema and pigmentation. Conclusion: These preliminary findings show significant epigenetic modifications following laser treatment, impacting skin cell proliferation, differentiation, and immune function, alongside observable clinical benefits. This research underscores the transformative potential of laser treatments in dermatology, setting the stage for future studies to optimize therapeutic strategies for skin rejuvenation and repair. Further research with a larger sample size is essential to validate these results and fully understand the mechanisms behind the observed changes.