EDITOR’S NOTE
At AgeatLabs (AGL), we have been dedicated to researching Nano Mucin Technology designed to optimize skin absorption. Through cellular testing, we have derived meaningful and measurable results.
Mucin is a name many people recognize, yet few fully understand its precise role. Through rigorous experimentation, AGL has clarified its mechanism — providing scientific validation behind what was once simply a familiar ingredient.
The Two Worlds of Mucin — Animal and Plant-Derived
Mucin is a type of glycoprotein found in mucus secreted by mucosal tissues. Its primary function is to bind and retain moisture while coating cell surfaces to protect them from external stressors. A familiar example is the surface of the eye, where mucin plays a critical protective role.
Within the skin, mucin’s moisture-retention capacity is equally significant. This is why it continues to be widely valued in both topical skincare and ingestible inner beauty formulations.
Broadly, mucin can be categorized into animal-derived and plant-derived sources.
Animal-derived mucin is commonly obtained from sources such as snail secretion or salmon. Because its structure is similar to certain human proteins, it is known for its skin-friendly compatibility.
Plant-derived mucin can be extracted from ingredients such as yam or okra. While it offers strong viscosity, its larger molecular size is generally understood to result in lower absorption efficiency.
In Search of the Most Optimal Form of Mucin
To answer the question, “Which form of mucin is truly the most effective?” we initiated a series of controlled studies.
In collaboration with Mariederm Skin Science Research Institute, we conducted a human application study (Research Code: MMV-24057) to evaluate the skin-protective and restorative effects of Nano Mucin. Through this trial, we derived meaningful data clarifying how Nano Mucin interacts with and influences the skin.
This study was designed to observe how cells respond differently depending on the source, molecular size, and structural characteristics of mucin. Three distinct comparative groups were evaluated.
1. Snail-Derived Nano Mucin
An experimental group utilizing AGL’s Nano Mucin Technology, in which particle size was reduced to below 50 kDa to enhance cellular absorption.
2. High-Molecular-Weight Snail Mucin
A conventional high-molecular snail extract commonly used in cosmetic formulations.
3. Plant-Derived Yam Mucin
A plant-based mucin primarily characterized by its viscosity.
According to the study results, the snail-derived Nano Mucin extracted using AGL’s proprietary technology demonstrated the most pronounced efficacy among the three groups.
Wrinkle Care — Inhibition of MMP-1
Nano Mucin demonstrated inhibition of MMP-1 at all tested concentrations (100–400 µg/mL).
MMP-1 is an enzyme responsible for breaking down collagen, and its activity increases when the skin is exposed to external stressors such as UV radiation. In contrast, the other mucin types showed measurable responses only at concentrations above 1%.
→ These findings indicate that Nano Mucin can inhibit wrinkle-inducing enzymes effectively, even at lower concentrations.
Moisture Synthesis — Increased Expression of HAS2
HAS2 is an enzyme that enables the skin to synthesize its own hyaluronic acid. While the other two mucins exhibited only minimal responses at higher concentrations, Nano Mucin significantly increased HAS2 expression at 200 and 400 µg/mL.
→ Nano Mucin demonstrates distinctive efficiency in supporting the skin’s ability to generate its own moisture components.
Moisture Retention — Decreased Expression of HYAL2
Creating moisture is only part of the equation — preserving it is equally critical. HYAL2 is an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid and contributes to moisture loss within the skin. Among the three groups tested, only Nano Mucin reduced HYAL2 expression in a concentration-dependent manner.
→ Nano Mucin stands out as the only mucin shown to both support moisture synthesis and help preserve it.
Disclaimer
This content is based on in-vitro cellular research data and is provided for general informational purposes only.
It does not represent or imply the efficacy of any specific product.
Individual results may vary. This material is intended for educational and informational use only and is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Source: In-vitro Internal Research Report, Sejong University, November 17, 2025.