"Smart PDOs: A System for Controlled Release in Facial Aesthetic"

Abstract

Introduction: We propose a new facial lifting protocol using polydioxanone threads embedded in acetyl hexapeptide-8 (Argireline®). We assume that Argireline® (Arg) reinforces the effects of PDO threads, as it is a mimetic of botulinum toxin. Because the PDO suture is hydrolyzable, this assumption was analyzed by instrumental analysis. Objective: To demonstrate the capacity of the PDO suture as a system for the controlled release of acetyl hexapeptide-8. Materials and methods: Three segments of 1cm-long 21G PDO threads were immersed in 1 ml of Arg. PDO threads were observed under an optical, electron microscope at 24, 48, and 72 hours later. They also weighed before and after being soaked in Arg. Finally, employing UV-Vis spectroscopy, the release rate of Arg from the PDO suture was measured. Results: The electronic weighing revealed that the PDO thread enjoys capillarity by the peptide, doubling its weight every 24 hours. UV spectra revealed that PDO thread is a well-controlled release system for Arg, allowing its sustained release for 1 hour. Optical and electronic photomicrographs confirm the swelling of the PDO thread by absorbing Arg by its capillarity, but this hydrophilicity does not lead to its premature physical degradation. Conclusions: The PDO thread system with Arg is an intelligent bioactive system useful in facial harmonization. It employed recommended for clinical use to verify its superior lifting effect.