薬理と治療

Abstract

Objective　This study aimed to examine the effects of consumption of a test food containing elastin peptides derived from the equine nuchal ligament（EPE）on skin condition and body shape in healthy Japanese adult women with facial skin elasticity problems. Methods　Subjects were allocated into either EPE or placebo group（n＝16 each）using a random number generator. They consumed two tablets╱day during lunch to bedtime of either the food containing EPE or placebo for eight weeks. The assessments included viscoelasticity testing, body measurements, three-dimensional imaging, dermis measurements, and subjective skin symptom. Results　As an efficacy analysis, the number of subjects analyzed was 15 in the EPE group and 16 in the placebo group. After eight weeks, no significant changes in facial skin viscoelasticity were noted in the EPE group, although significant changes were noted in other outcomes. These included a significant height increase in the measurement from the ground to the top of the bust, and a significant decrease in the number and total surface area of hyperpigmentation on facial skin. Additionally, a significant decrease in the total area of wrinkles at the corners of the eyes was observed in women aged ＜40 years. Furthermore, the subjective symptom related to facial skin pores was significantly reduced to the point of no longer being a complaint for some trial participants. There were no adverse effects associated with the test food. Conclusions　The study found that the food containing EPE improved the firmness of the bust and decreased facial skin pigmentation in healthy Japanese adult women with facial skin elasticity problems. In women aged ＜40 years, the EPE decreased the wrinkles observed at the corners of the eyes. Furthermore, EPE was found to improve subjective symptoms related to facial skin pores. Trial registration　UMIN000036807 Foundation　BIOCON（JAPAN）LTD.