Polynucleotide (and Polydeoxyribonucleotide)

Polynucleotide (PN) and polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) are DNA-derived biopolymers increasingly recognised for their potential in skincare and dermatology.

Despite their structural similarities, PN and PDRN exhibit distinct functions due to differences in polymer length and molecular weight. PN, composed of longer DNA fragments, plays a key role in extracellular matrix remodeling.

Conversely, PDRN, composed of relatively shorter oligonucleotide sequences than those of PN, enhances skin condition through adenosine receptor (look it up!) activations and supports nucleotide synthesis via both the salvage and de novo pathways.

Polymeric nucleotide fragments, including polydeoxyribonucleotides and polynucleotides, have recently emerged as promising agents. The global polynucleotide market has been emerging and expanding rapidly and a wide range of clinical applications are being actively implemented across dermatological and aesthetic practices. Both PN and PDRN are classified as deoxyribonucleotide-based polymers and have been predominantly used in clinic. However, PN and PDRN differ significantly in molecular chain length distribution, structural characteristics, and clinical applications. Their practical clinical applications vary depending on specific treatment objectives.

However, the distinct characteristics of PDRN and PN are substantially under-recognised, resulting in clinical misapplications and suboptimal treatment outcomes. Therefore, a clear understanding of the differences between these compounds is essential to ensure their appropriate and effective clinical application.

Nucleic acid polymers have been widely used to enhance skin health and have attracted increasing attention in research and are being incorporated into pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and cosmetic products, contingent upon varying regional regulatory classifications. The same active compounds may be classified differently across countries. The scope of their applications is expanding, particularly in Italy, South Korea, and other Asian countries. Notably, numerous studies have used the terms PN and PDRN interchangeably, despite substantial differences in their molecular weight distributions and origins. This compositional heterogeneity complicates direct comparisons across studies and underscores an urgent need for standardised definitions and characterisation criteria within both research and clinical contexts.

• Polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine, as evidenced by various studies, demonstrate significant potential for improving skin conditions by stimulating collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and hydration, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles, with applications ranging from skin boosters and cosmeceuticals to fillers and bio-revitalisation protocols.

• PN have been extensively explored for their potential in wrinkle treatment, demonstrating promising results in enhancing skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance, as detailed in various studies focusing on different application methods and formulations.

• PN has shown promising results in the rejuvenation of vulvar and vaginal tissues, offering significant improvements in symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, and atrophy among postmenopausal women

(Note that PN are distinct from polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN) in several key aspects: 1. PN are derived from testes, whereas PDRN are sourced from sperm cells; 2. PN possess longer nucleotide chains; 3. PN exhibit a higher molecular weight; and 4. PN have a scaffold structure that is not present in PDRN)

Accumulating biological and clinical data indicates that both PDRN and PN can improve the condition of the skin and promote its regeneration, thereby mitigating visible signs of skin aging. Despite differences in their molecular mechanisms and biological effects, both compounds hold substantial potential for extensive future research and development for dermatological applications.

Their effectiveness is highly dependent on formulation quality and appropriate clinical use, which underscores the importance of physician oversight tailored to your specific individual needs.

PLEASE: If you are thinking of this treatment, make sure that you getting advice from a dermatologist or your qualified chosen skincare professional and NOT from social media!

NOT MY OWN WORK The above taken from:

Kim, S.T. Comparison of Polynucleotide and Polydeoxyribonucleotide in Dermatology: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Perspectives. Pharmaceutics 2025, 17, 1024. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17081024

and:

Lee KWA, Chan KWL, Lee A, Lee CH, Wan J, Wong S, Yi KH. Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review of Current Practices and Perceived Effectiveness. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Jul 27;25(15):8224. doi: 10.3390/ijms25158224. PMID: 39125793; PMCID: PMC11311621.