No more wrinkles – just a pipe dream? Perhaps not thanks to the latest research from scientists at Berkeley Lab.

Scientists have discovered that a protein may be linked to the spread of several major cancers and that this protein may one day mean that wrinkles are banished forever.

The RHAMM protein (Receptor for Hyaluronan Mediated Motility) has been found to help regulate the signalling of fat cells during tissue repairs. This research has followed on from previous work showing that if the protein was over-expressed, there was a poor patient outcome for some of the more common cancers such as colon cancer, breast cancer and stomach cancer.

The latest studies show that by blocking the expression of the RHAMM protein by either deleting the gene or by introducing a blocking agent, a generation of fat cells can be selectively induced to replace those lost during the aging process. The blocking process has another plus too – it reduces the deposits of unhealthy visceral fat.

This research indicates that it may eliminate the need for Botox or facial anti-aging surgery by helping to normalize the skin and reduce wrinkles. Many people are excited about this cosmetic development because it may prove to be a safer alternative to Botox – the RHAMM inhibitors have long-lasting effects, just like Botox, however they do not involve muscle paralysis therefore the patient should not lose any facial expression or movements.