Mechanotransduction of Collagen Biostimulators

BACKGROUNDGLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) can induce rapid weight reduction, often associated with facial volume loss. However, optimal regenerative strategies remain unclear.

AIMSTo compare the mechanotransduction profiles of the major injectable collagen biostimulator classes in GLP-1 RA–induced facial aging.

METHODSA structured narrative review with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-informed search and reporting was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library (January 1, 2000—March 31, 2026).

RESULTSForty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Each of the six biostimulator classes—PLLA, PDLLA, PDO, CaHA, particulate PCL, and liquid-type PCL—exhibits a distinct mechanotransduction profile, though the strength of supporting evidence varies substantially across agents.

CONCLUSIONSMechanotransduction-active collagen biostimulators provide a biologically plausible rationale for addressing facial volume loss, although current clinical evidence remains limited and no studies have directly enrolled GLP-1 RA–associated facial aging patients. A conceptual severity-stratified framework warrants prospective validation.

Abstract from Crossref