Scientists block gene in lab trial, reverse skin aging process

People will do just about anything to look younger.

From laser treatments that burn away wrinkles, to facelifts to special creams that plump up collagen and even botox injections.

All are temporary fixes.

Now researchers at Stanford University say they may have found a more permanent solution.

By blocking a single gene in mice they actually reversed the aging of their skin.

The finding could have broader effects.

Dr. Howard Chang of Stanford University?s School of Medicine said, ?There's already evidence that blocking the same pathway could potentially improve muscle function; maybe improve certain diseases associated with aging so I think those are more likely immediate application rather than true extension of life span.

The researchers results were surprising.

After just two weeks of blocking the gene in the basal layer of an older mouse, that's the lowest, most active layer of the skin surface, the mouse's aged skin reverted to that of a young animal.

The findings suggest that wrinkling skin may be, in part, caused by an active gene that doctors could possibly turn off.

Dermatologists say overall this news is exciting.

"There has to be a certain amount of healthy skepticism here because this is a mouse model, not a human model in skin, as well as the majority of what we perceive as aging in skin comes from sun exposure," said Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi of Johns Hopkins University.

The studies have just been conducted on mice.

Researchers say human trials are still 5-10 years away.

Given that timetable, dermatologists say better keep using your sunscreen, since exposure to sun will cause your skin to age more than anything else.