Pre-clinical formulation screening, development and stability of acetyl aspartic acid for cosmetic application.

Synopsis Background Acetyl aspartic acid (A-A-A) was discovered through gene array analysis with corresponding connectivity mapping (Cmap). Using an in silico and in vitro approach, A-A-A was found increased keratinocyte regeneration, inhibited dermal expression of MMP making this compound a potential active ingredient for cosmetic application. Objectives To determine the conditions to successfully formulate A-A-A for skin delivery investigation and in vivo clinical assessment by the systematic approach of pre-formulation testing of the active, screening of formulation type on active delivery and stability evaluations. Methods Analytical evaluation of A-A-A was undertaken using LC-MS ESI method. Formulation stability was evaluated using Brookfield viscometer, pH analysis, optical microscopy and organoleptic evaluations. Results Analytical evaluation of A-A-A shows that pH significantly impacts chemical stability of the molecule. A-A-A containing formulae show minimal differences to vehicle product throughout the testing. Conclusion A-A-A is an active that can be successfully formulated in a cosmetic o/w emulsion within defined pH considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]