Effects of a Dietary Supplement on Collagen Production and Evaluation of Its Regenerative and Anti-Ageing Propertiess

This study evaluates the effects of a dietary supplement containing natural bioactive compounds on biological processes associated with skin ageing and extracellular matrix integrity. Ageing is characterized by a progressive decline in the function of dermal fibroblasts, the primary cells responsible for collagen production and maintenance of skin structure. Over time, these cells exhibit reduced proliferative capacity, decreased collagen synthesis, and increased accumulation of oxidative and glycative damage, leading to deterioration of skin elasticity and overall tissue homeostasis. The study integrates in vitro and clinical approaches to investigate the potential benefits of the formulation. In the clinical component, healthy adult participants received either the nutraceutical formulation or a matched placebo daily for a period of six weeks. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at the end of the intervention to assess changes in systemic biomarkers associated with collagen metabolism, oxidative stress, and glycation. Specifically, the study measured circulating levels of Pro-Collagen I Alpha as an indicator of collagen biosynthesis, protein carbonyls as markers of oxidative protein damage, and Advanced Glycation End Products as markers of glycation-related molecular damage. These biomarkers collectively reflect key biological mechanisms underlying skin ageing and broader ageing processes. The objective of the study is to determine whether supplementation with the formulation can support extracellular matrix homeostasis, enhance collagen production, and reduce molecular damage associated with oxidative stress and glycation, thereby contributing to healthy ageing.