Collaborating with Seorin, Cosmax targets global market with sustainable, high-purity DNA for skincare innovation
Cosmax, a global cosmetic ODM (research, development, and production) company, recently succeeded in diversifying the synthesis pathways for PDRN, Polydeoxyribonucleotide, which has garnered significant attention in the cosmetics market. By utilizing various PDRN raw materials, Cosmax is introducing high-functional customized products and aims to secure a technological edge in both domestic and global markets.
Cosmax announced that it successfully developed vegan PDRN using the next-generation synthesis platform CFSS, Cell Free Synthetic System, through joint research with Professor Choi Yong-jun's team at the University of Seoul. The newly developed vegan PDRN has a sequence that is over 99.9% identical to salmon PDRN.
Cosmax signed an MOU, a business agreement, with Seorin Company, which operates the skincare brand ROUND LAB, and is expected to aggressively target the global market. Cosmax will be responsible for the biosynthetic and applied research of raw materials, while Seorin Company will handle the commercialization of products utilizing vegan PDRN and strategies for market expansion.
PDRN, Polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a specialized ingredient well-known for its soothing effects. When applied to the skin or body tissues, it promotes cell regeneration and has properties that aid in wound healing and inflammation reduction. PDRN has a high-molecular structure similar to salmon DNA, allowing it to be well absorbed by human skin. Additionally, as it is similar to components within the body, it tends to cause less irritation or rejection. Originally developed as a medical regenerative treatment for wounds, scars, ulcers, etc., it has come to be used in cosmetic procedures and as a cosmetic ingredient due to its excellent skin regeneration effects.
Until now, PDRN was primarily extracted from salmon testes (germ cells), leading to limitations in raw material supply. It is known that an average of only 10~15 mL can be extracted from one salmon. Even this amount could only be collected when salmon migrate upstream during spawning season, meaning supply was constrained by seasonal and ecological factors. The extraction process was also complex, resulting in a limited supply relative to demand.
The significance of Cosmax's recent research lies in securing a stable synthesis pathway for PDRN raw materials. Particularly, the CFSS technology used in synthesizing vegan PDRN is a method that utilizes only the biosynthetic pathways of intracellular materials, not entire cells, enabling the stable acquisition of high-purity DNA in a short period.
Previously, Cosmax introduced recombinant PDRN raw materials based on bio-synthesis technology in China. Cosmax China signed a strategic MOU, a business agreement, with Luojiming (瑞吉明) Co., Ltd., a leading Chinese synthetic biology technology company, for the global launch and utilization of bio PDRN, Polydeoxyribonucleotide.
The biosynthetic PDRN newly developed by Cosmax is characterized by its ability to mass-produce customized functional products. It applies the latest biosynthetic technology, which combines specific base sequences effective for the skin with molecular weights according to required efficacy and synthesizes them using microorganisms.
Through the advancement of next-generation PDRN technology, Cosmax plans to provide differentiated solutions to the cosmetics market. It is expected to establish the 'Cosmax PDRN Platform' and introduce PDRN products with diversified molecular weights, materials, and purity levels according to client requests.
A source from Cosmax stated, "This research achievement is a symbolic example of the beauty industry entering the era of 'precision bio-manufacturing.' We will actively target the global customized cosmetics market by diversifying high-functional raw materials that balance sustainability and efficacy."