Artificial visible light is everywhere in our modern life. Our mode of social communication confronts us with screens of all kinds and their use is on the rise. Curious to discover the potential consequences of such an environment on skin health, Gattefossé initiated a two-year investigation with Cytoo to determine the direct effects of screen exposure on the skin.
Gattefossé & Cytoo joint press release
Unique equipment was designed by Gattefossé – ingredients for the personal care and pharmaceutical industries supplier – to accurately recreate the characteristic light emitted by screens of electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, PC).
By using micropatterning technology, a method to guide cell shape and monitor cell fate, Cytoo – a biotechnology company – has developed a High Content Screening assay combining precise control of human dermal fibroblast spreading and sensitive analysis of mitochondrial fusion/fission dynamics by non-invasive live-cell imaging.
Gattefossé and Cytoo have united technology, expertise and know-how to explore mitochondrial modulation and protection upon artificial visible light exposure.
Mitochondria, also termed the powerhouse of cells, produce the energy essential to proper biological function of cells. Mitochondrial quality is finely adjusted by constant reshaping of its structure via a process involving fusion and fission.
Cytoo and Gattefossé have discovered that exposure to screens significantly weakens mitochondrial function and dynamics. Fragmentation of the mitochondrial network is observed alongside loss of quality control and diminished capacity to produce ATP (Adenosine TriPhosphate).
“Mitochondrial fission and fusion play critical roles when cells experience metabolic or environmental stresses. We were delighted to start a long-term collaboration with Gattefossé, and …