Ana Gallego
R&D Manager - VYTRUS BIOTECH
Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), she holds a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Research (UPF) and a Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a specialization in Plant Physiology from the University of Barcelona (UB). She completed her PhD in Biomedical Research and Plant Biotechnology at the Faculty of Pharmacy of the UB, within the framework of the Biomedical PhD Program at UPF.
With more than 15 years of experience, she has specialized in the development and production of high-value cosmetic and pharmaceutical active ingredients through plant biotechnology. Currently, her research focuses on experimental design and data analysis to elucidate and validate novel mechanisms of action of cosmetic active ingredients, bridging fundamental plant science with applied dermocosmetic and hair care innovation. Her scientific career has resulted in the authorship of more than 30 scientific and technical publications, as well as 7 patents in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors.
Presentation
Mechanisms of a biological alternative to electroporation for skin care
This presentation explores the skin as a bioelectrical tissue capable of communicating through ionic signals that regulate homeostasis, defense, and regeneration. At the cellular level, ion channels and pumps maintain membrane potentials, while transepithelial voltage gradients are generated across intact tissue. When the skin barrier is disrupted, these gradients create endogenous “wound electric fields” that guide cell migration and repair through galvanotaxis.
Conventional approaches such as electroporation attempt to replicate these regenerative bioelectric signals by applying short, high-voltage pulses that transiently permeabilize cell membranes, enabling intracellular delivery of bioactive compounds. However, these techniques depend on external devices and may present safety limitations or delayed cytotoxic effects.
This work presents a bioinspired alternative that mimics electroporation through endogenous bioelectric mechanisms. A plant-derived system obtained from *Hylocereus undatus* stem cells was developed to induce transient membrane pore formation without external electrical stimulation. Rich in glycoconjugates that modulate ATP-gated P2X receptors, as well as regenerative polyphenols and pigments, the system promotes controlled extracellular ATP signaling.
In vitro studies with human keratinocytes demonstrated a time-dependent increase in membrane permeability, efficient intracellular delivery, preserved cell viability, and stimulation of regenerative markers. These findings introduce a new device-free strategy for bioelectric modulation and skin regeneration.
Vytrus Biotech is a Spanish biotechnology company specialized in the development, production, and commercialization of high value-added natural active ingredients for skin and hair care. With a portfolio of more than 16 active cosmetic ingredients, 6 patents, and 32 international awards, Vytrus has established itself as a global reference in biotechnology for cosmetics. The company operates in more than 50 countries, with 73% of its production sold internationally across Europe, the US, Latin America, and Asia. Listed on BME Growth (Spanish stock market), Vytrus holds key certifications including ISO 9001:2015, COSMOS and Natrue-approved, China compliance, ISO 16128, GMP for cosmetic ingredients, Ecovadis, and Halal certified.