Polydeoxyribonucleotide as a Regenerative Agent in Dermatology and Wound Healing: Mechanisms, Clinical Applications, and Safety

Abstract

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a highly purified salmon‑sperm–derived DNA polymer, exhibits potent regenerative and anti-inflammatory effects. This review critically explores the dual mechanisms of PDRN—namely, adenosine A2A receptor activation and nucleotide provision via the salvage pathway—and synthesizes the current clinical evidence regarding its applications in dermatology and wound healing. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that PDRN enhances angiogenesis, modulates cytokine profiles, and accelerates tissue repair processes, resulting in improved healing rates in chronic diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and venous leg ulcers as well as faster epithelial regeneration in surgical donor sites and corneal wounds. Adjunctive benefits have also been reported in lichen sclerosis, osteoarthritis, and aesthetic dermatology. Furthermore, PDRN demonstrates excellent safety profile, with minimal adverse events reported across multiple trials and real-world applications. Emerging delivery platforms and combination therapies have further expanded the therapeutic potential. This review highlights the potential of PDRN as a versatile and safe regenerative agent by integrating mechanistic insights with robust clinical data.