A study of gene expression and histological changes in the skin before and after Exion monopolar microneedle RF-lifting

Introduction. Monopolar microneedling RF therapy involves controlled thermomechanical tissue injury that can initiate a cascade of reparative responses, including early inflammatory signals, dermal cell activation, and subsequent extracellular matrix remodeling.

Aim. To study gene expression and histological changes in the skin before and after monopolar microneedling with Exion.

Materials and methods. Three patients participated in the study. Skin samples obtained from the abdominal area using punch biopsies (4 mm in diameter) were collected for analysis after monopolar microneedle RF lifting (Exion, BTL Industries Ltd., United Kingdom). Patient 1 used an isolated needle with an extended mode. Patient 2 used a non-insulated needle without an extended mode. Patient 3 used an isolated needle without an extended mode. Gene expression analysis was performed using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results. The most reproducible morphological finding was an increase in the thickness of the viable epidermis in all three patients. This finding suggests that the epidermis is one of the main compartments responsive to RF microneedling. Dermal remodeling was also observed in all three patients. The RT-qPCR data are particularly noteworthy. Increased COL1A1 expression was noted in all three patients, and elevated COL3A1 expression was observed in two of the three.

Conclusions. The obtained results support the concept of initiating a reparative-remodeling response after monopolar microneedle RF treatment, but require confirmation in larger, methodologically standardized studies.

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