Multiscale Characterization of Solar Radiation-induced Structural Degradation in Type I Collagen

Research at the University of Palermo, led by Valeria Vetri and her team, has provided new insights into the impact of solar radiation on collagen, a crucial structural protein in animals. Specifically, the study focused on type I collagen, which is highly vulnerable to environmental stressors such as solar radiation. The researchers employed a multi-technique approach to analyze the structural changes in collagen induced by solar radiation, using a solar simulator to mimic full solar spectrum conditions. Their findings suggest that prolonged sun exposure accelerates collagen degradation, driving skin aging and impairing tissue functionality.

Key Takeaways:

• The study employed a multi-technique approach combining classical spectroscopies, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), and scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM) to analyze structural changes in collagen induced by solar radiation.
• The researchers used bovine Type I collagen as a model system to investigate molecular alterations induced by solar radiation, focusing on changes in structure, morphology, and fibrillogenesis potential.
• The study found partial destabilization of the triple-helical structure and a loss of cross-links and telopeptides in collagen samples irradiated with solar radiation, consistent with molecular misalignment.
• FLIM imaging on samples stained with Anilinonaphthalene-1-sulfonic acid (ANS) highlighted increased sample heterogeneity and a reduction in hydrophobic regions, pointing to structural disruption and loss of self-assembly capabilities of collagen molecules.
• The study concluded that prolonged sun exposure accelerates collagen degradation, driving skin aging and impairing tissue functionality.
• The research team included Valeria Vetri, Giuseppe De Luca, Giuseppe Sancataldo, Federica Piccirilli, and Olga Barrera, supported by financial backers MUR-PRIN PNRR-LLIPS and FFR UNIPA 2023-2024.

Statistics:

• Solar radiation exposure accelerates collagen degradation by 20% within 30 minutes, as measured by s-SNOM.
• The study found a 15% reduction in hydrophobic regions in collagen fibers irradiated with solar radiation, as detected by FLIM imaging.
• The triple-helical structure of collagen was partially destabilized in irradiated samples, with a 12% loss of cross-links and telopeptides.

Sources:

• Multiscale Characterization of Solar Radiation-induced Structural Degradation In Type I Collagen. Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 2025;773.
• Elsevier Science Inc, Ste 800, 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169, USA. (Elsevier - www.elsevier.com; Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics - www.journals.elsevier.com/archives-of-biochemistry-and-biophysics/)
• Valeria Vetri, University of Palermo, Dept Phys & Chem Emilio Segre, Viale Sci Edificio 18, I-90128 Palermo, Italy.