The 2nd Frontier Forum on Peptides and Skin Health was held recently in Shanghai's Pudong New Area to offer an opportunity for discussion about the latest applications and developments of synthetic biology in the skin health industry.

As part of the 2024 Zhangjiang Life Science International Innovation Summit, the forum gathered experts and scholars to focus on research and the latest applications in synthetic biology.

Pudong-based WIJ Healthcare unveiled two newly developed products based on the traditional herbal ingredient prunella vulgaris and on inhibiting a key enzyme that is responsible for cortisol synthesis, which means a significant reduction in cortisol levels induced by stress, said Zhu Li, co-founder and head of research and development at the company.

"Pudong New Area has prioritized the development of the biopharmaceutical industry, with Zhangjiang Science City becoming a leading hub with a fully integrated biopharmaceutical industrial chain, an abundance of talent, and a dynamic innovation environment," said Liu Gang, deputy general manager of Shanghai Pudong Life Science Industry Development Co Ltd.

Liu added that Pudong is committed to strengthening institutional innovation and fostering a vibrant business ecosystem, and said the area looks forward to partnering with more entrepreneurs, scientists, and investors to drive innovation in science and technology and bring advancements to the global stage.

The event was held under the guidance of the Shanghai Pudong New Area Science and Technology and Economic Commission and the Zhangjiang Science City Construction Management Office, and was supported by Shanghai Pudong Life Science Industry Development Co Ltd, Shanghai Synthetic Biology Industry Association, and the Pudong New Area Bioindustry Association.