This comprehensive review explores the scientific potential of polyherbal formulations as advanced, multi-targeted solutions for anti-aging skincare. It delves into the intricate mechanisms of skin aging, driven by both intrinsic factors like oxidative stress and extrinsic factors such as UV radiation, which lead to collagen degradation and inflammation. The article highlights seven key medicinal plants—including Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Withania somnifera—and their potent phytoconstituents like curcumin and withanolides. These compounds work synergistically to combat aging by enhancing skin hydration, boosting collagen synthesis, inhibiting destructive enzymes (MMPs), and modulating oxidative stress. A significant focus is placed on modern delivery systems—such as liposomes, ethosomes, and emulgels—which are crucial for enhancing the stability, skin penetration, and bioavailability of these herbal actives. By bridging traditional ethnobotanical knowledge with contemporary cosmeceutical science and technology, the review positions polyherbal formulations as sustainable, effective, and therapeutically viable alternatives to conventional synthetic anti-aging products, offering a holistic approach to skin rejuvenation.

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) has shown promising therapeutic prospects in many major diseases. However, two main reasons limit the application of siRNA: poor endocytosis efficiency and weak endosomal escape ability. Therefore, the development of efficient and safe delivery vectors has always been an important study aspect of RNAi technology. Herein, we designed a self-assembled nanoparticle based on functionalized peptides to deliver siRNA to the down-regulated polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) gene, which can inhibit tumor cells in the G2 phase. The functional polypeptide consists of cell membrane-penetrating peptide (CPP44) and p16 minimal inhibitory sequence (p16MIS). CPP44 can effectively mediate endocytosis, while p16MIS can inhibit tumor growth in the G1 phase and synergistically promote the apoptosis of tumor cells with siPLK1. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate that the developed nanoparticle exhibits high levels of silencing efficiency, antitumor activity, and therapeutic efficacy. Consequently, this study provides a novel approach to cancer treatment by simultaneously disrupting two stages of tumor cell division.

New Joint Lab marks ŌURA’s first research entity in the APAC region, deepening a six-year partnership with NUS focussing on key health behaviours including sleep and physical activity