New Research Links the Per1 Gene to Nighttime Skin Repair

Recent breakthroughs in circadian biology have revealed new ways to manually adjust the body’s internal clock, offering relief for jet lag, shift work, and skin aging. At the center of these discoveries is the selective activation of the Period1 (Per1) gene, a critical regulator of the 24-hour cycle.

A Japanese research team, including experts from the University of Osaka and Kanazawa University, has discovered a compound called Mic-628. This compound specifically targets the Per1 gene by binding to the repressor protein CRY1, which in turn activates transcription and advances the body clock.

Unlike existing treatments like melatonin or light therapy, which are highly dependent on timing, Mic-628 works independent of dosing time. In laboratory tests using mice, a single dose reduced the time needed to recover from simulated jet lag from seven days to just four. Researchers believe this compound could serve as a prototype for managing circadian misalignment disorders.

The influence of the Per1 gene extends beyond sleep to the body's largest organ: the skin. Research from the Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) emphasizes that skin cells possess their own autonomous clocks that govern nighttime repair and cell proliferation. Studies show that poor sleep quality can lead to a 30% reduction in skin barrier recovery and accelerated signs of aging, such as fine lines and loss of elasticity.

To address this, scientists developed Tripeptide-32, an exclusive compound designed to boost PER-1 protein expression. By helping skin cells "reset" their rhythms, the peptide enhances cellular energy and survival, allowing the skin to maximize its regenerative potential during the night.

Whether through oral compounds like Mic-628 or topical peptides, the ability to synchronize biological rhythms represents a major shift in healthcare. As experts from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology note, aligning research with industry goals is essential for translating these molecular findings into practical applications for global health.

---

🔖 Sources

Newly discovered compound can advance the body's internal clock

Tapping into the body’s master clock could re-energize skin cell repair

---

Keywords: Per1 Gene

Per1 Gene

---