Israeli scientists have developed a new therapy that activates the body's natural defenses against disease-causing free radicals — an advance that could control a variety of skin conditions and disorders, including wrinkles and sun damage.

Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem said the nanotechnology-based system can combat or reverse the effects of various pollutants, UV rays, radiation and other stressors that cause skin problems by creating molecules that damage and destroy cells, including lipids, proteins, and DNA.

That damage can lead to various skin conditions, including inflammatory diseases, pigmenting disorders, wrinkles and some types of skin cancer, and can also affect internal organs.

In a review article published in the journal Cosmetics, Hebrew University researcher Maya Ben-Yehuda Greenwald revealed that researchers devised an innovative way to invigorate the body to produce antioxidant enzymes that combat that process by boosting the body’s natural defenses.

"The approach of using the body's own defense system is very effective. We showed that activation of the body's defense system with the aid of a unique delivery system is feasible, and may leverage dermal cure," said Ben-Yehuda Greenwald.

The research showed that applying nano-size droplets of microemulsion liquids to the skin activates the natural skin defense systems.

"Currently, there are many scientific studies supporting the activation of the body's defense mechanisms. However, none of these studies has demonstrated the use of a nanotechnology-based delivery system to do so," Ben-Yehuda Greenwald said.

While the researchers focused on the skin, the formulation could prove to be effective in enhancing the body's natural protection against cardiovascular diseases, heart attack, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease.