Harnessing the power of evolution

The biology of skin is highly complex, with different layers, containing multiple types of cell which interact with each other and the extracellular matrix between them. This forms an integrated system that is highly reactive to the environment (internal metabolism as well as external). This high level of biological complexity which functions at the gene, protein and transcription level, is the major barrier to innovation of effective ingredients in skincare and haircare. The chances of conventional research techniques overcoming this challenge are statistically very remote owing to the simultaneous numbers of variables involved.

The Phenodynamics platform is able to analyse this complex biology and establish the means by which desired skincare benefits can be delivered, as well as pinpointing ingredients relevant to such mechanisms. Through breeding and selecting relevant phenotypes, the genomic traits associated with key functions in target cell types can be established. This evolution-derived genomic trait information then informs proprietary complex interactome analysis of the proteome and, if appropriate, genome and/or metabolome of the cell. This is expanded across the different types of cells involved. Having established the means by which the functionality can be optimised, AI is used to identify potentially suitable, regulatory compliant ingredients which are then scientifically tested in relevant assays to validate their effectiveness.