Research Collaboration between Beiersdorf and DKFZ on Developing Skin Cancer Prevention Strategies
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Beiersdorf, the renowned skincare company behind brands like Nivea, and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have joined forces to reverse the biological aging of skin cells and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
This is the first time Beiersdorf has collaborated with an academic research institution in such a capacity. The company also partners with startups, but this joint lab with DKFZ marks a new frontier.
Another significant collaboration, focusing on reversing the epigenetic aging of skin cells, was initiated by Amway and Professor Karima Djabali from the Technical University of Munich (TUM). This partnership involves Amway financing research into argan stem cells and natural compounds that influence aging mechanisms, with TUM contributing scientific expertise in epigenetics and stem cell research on skin aging.
Dr. Marc Winnefeld, head of the Applied Skin Research department at Beiersdorf, expressed his optimism, stating that the research has reached a level that brings substantial epigenetic rejuvenation of human cells within reach.
Dr. Gitta Neufang, Senior VP Research & Development at Beiersdorf, emphasised the importance of the close cooperation with DKFZ researchers, stating that it will create further synergies in this area.
The research project, established in a Joint Innovation Lab at DKFZ, is investigating the "epigenetic clock" of skin cells. The focus is on studying the molecular clock in human cells, with epigenetic marks in the genome being key indicators of the current biological age.
Prof. Dr. Frank Lyko, head of the Epigenetics department at DKFZ, explained that age is a significant risk factor for cancer, and the goal is to intervene in the epigenetics of the skin to rejuvenate skin cells and potentially prevent skin cancer.
Over time, these epigenetic marks change significantly, increasing the risk of cancer. The aim of the research is to understand how these age-dependent epigenetic changes affect cellular processes, identify associated aging phenomena, and find ways to turn back the molecular clock.
A total of 4.8 million euros will be invested in the research project over the next four years. With this collaboration, Beiersdorf and DKFZ hope to make significant strides in understanding and combating the aging of skin cells, potentially leading to innovative skincare products and a reduced risk of skin cancer.
