Acemannan (ACE), derived from the Aloe vera plant, has demonstrated significant promise as a therapeutic agent for skin health, particularly through its effects on human keratinocytes, known as HaCaT cells. Recent research highlights ACE's ability to promote cell growth, migration, and differentiation, marking its potential application in wound healing and possibly other dermatological conditions.
Conducted by researchers at the National Taiwan University Hospital and Dazzeon Biotechnology Co., Ltd., this study illuminates the biological functions of ACE by exploring its molecular mechanisms. Published on March 10, 2025, findings suggest ACE’s capacity to markedly increase keratinocyte proliferation and migration, acting as a beneficial stimulus during the wound healing process.
The investigation reveals how ACE influences keratinocyte physiology, showing concentration-dependent increases in cell growth and migration. Specifically, the researchers measured enhanced incorporation of the synthetic nucleoside bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), indicating heightened cell division among ACE-treated HaCaT cells. These outcomes suggest ACE could be instrumental for therapeutic strategies aimed at accelerating skin repair following injury.
Utilizing various assays, the study confirmed ACE’s ability to activate key signaling pathways associated with cell growth. It was found to stimulate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), protein kinase C (PKC), and protein kinase B (AKT/PKB). Such activations are pivotal, as they contribute collectively to keratinocyte functionality.
Interestingly, ACE also regulated differentiation within keratinocytes by modulating the expression of specific protein markers. It transiently decreased levels of p63α—a protein integral to maintaining keratinocyte proliferation—while simultaneously increasing involucrin, loricrin, and transglutaminase 1 (TGase 1), markers indicative of mature keratinocyte status.
The study emphasizes the dual role of ACE, where it both enhances cell proliferation and migration, yet stimulates differentiation through complex interactions with specific receptors and kinases. For example, the addition of PKC inhibitors like Ro320432 enhanced the growth and migration response, whereas EGFR inhibitors such as osimertinib effectively blocked these positive effects.
Additional analyses pointed to ACE’s impact on the monosaccharide composition of its polysaccharides, predominantly mannose, which reflects its structural and functional properties. The isolation of this polysaccharide (I50) revealed significant functional characteristics linked to ACE’s bioactivity, positing it as a key player in mediatory effects during keratinocyte behavior.
Interestingly, previous studies have suggested the historical medicinal uses of Aloe vera, highlighting its contributions to skin barrier function and wound healing. The existence of bioactive phytochemicals such as aloesin and aloin within the plant reinforces its multifaceted applications, which have long been exploited within cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
While researchers have established ACE’s promising profile for enhancing keratinocyte capabilities, they point out the need for continued exploration concerning its mechanisms. Understanding how ACE orchestrates its effects on cell behavior may yield novel approaches for tackling both acute and chronic skin conditions—further positioning it as invaluable within dermatological therapies.
Conclusively, the findings advocate for the exploration of ACE not only for wound healing but as potential treatment avenues for chronic dermatological conditions such as psoriasis. The molecular interactions and resulting effects suggest ACE could serve to modulate key biological processes governing skin health, warranting thorough investigation for future clinical applications.