PAG Labs Research Briefing

MMP-1 is the collagenase enzyme behind structural skin aging.

Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 is not a cosmetic buzzword. It is the enzyme that cleaves the collagen architecture responsible for facial tension, contour, and dermal density.

What changes with age

Collagen loss accelerates when MMP-1 escapes regulation.

In younger dermal tissue, collagen breakdown and collagen synthesis remain balanced. With NAD+ decline, oxidative stress, UV exposure, and senescent-cell signaling, MMP-1 expression rises and the balance shifts toward matrix degradation.

NAD+ decline
Sirtuin activity falls
>
MMP-1 expression
Collagenase pressure rises
>
Matrix cleavage
Type I and III collagen split
>
Visible ptosis
Contour and density decline

Three intervention points

The protocol works upstream of collagen loss.

NAD+

Restore sirtuin signaling

NAD+ supplies the cofactor needed for SIRT1 and SIRT3 activity, the upstream pathway used to keep inflammatory collagenase expression in check.

Quercetin

Clear senescent pressure

Quercetin supports senolytic cleanup, reducing the SASP environment that can amplify MMP-1 and suppress normal fibroblast repair.

Resveratrol

Protect new matrix quality

Resveratrol supports SIRT1 signaling and helps control glycation pressure so new collagen does not rapidly stiffen and degrade.

Target the enzyme cascade before surface correction.

PAG NAD CORE(TM) is built for the complete 90-day window required for suppression, synthesis, and matrix stabilization.

Start the 90-Day Protocol