Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the primary environmental driver of skin aging, inducing DNA lesions such as cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs), which compromise genomic stability and contribute to cellular dysfunction, inflammation, and extracellular matrix degradation.

This work investigates a CPD-photolyase enzyme derived from an Antarctic extremophile, adapted to high UV exposure conditions. The enzyme has been developed through a proprietary biotechnological process and is currently under patent protection.

Photolyases are light-activated enzymes capable of directly reversing CPDs. In this study, in vitro and ex vivo models were used to evaluate both skin penetration and DNA repair efficacy following UV exposure. Results demonstrate effective penetration into relevant skin layers and complete removal of CPDs under controlled experimental conditions.

The restoration of DNA integrity was associated with the preservation of cellular function under UV-induced stress, supporting a mechanistic approach targeting upstream drivers of skin aging.

These findings suggest that enzymatic DNA repair represents a relevant strategy for promoting skin longevity, shifting the focus from downstream correction of visible signs to intervention at the level of primary molecular damage.