Protective Effect of Polysaccharide Derived from Natural Extract on Human Follicle Dermal Papilla Cell and Keratinocytes

Abstract

Background: This study sought to evaluate the skin-protective effects of polysaccharide extracts derived from four natural materials (ginseng, green tea, shiitake, and aloe vera) to determine their potential as raw materials for the cosmetics industry. In a broad sense, we aimed to determine the effects of skin protection on preventing hair loss.BRMethods and Results: Polysaccharide extracts were prepared from ginseng, green tea, shiitake, and aloe vera. For each polysaccharide extract, the total sugar content was assessed, and antioxidant activity was measured using superoxide dismutase-like activity assay. The efficacy of the extracts at enhancing cell proliferation and hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis were assessed in human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPC) and keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells.BRConclusions: Each of the tested polysaccharides effectively protected dermal papilla cells and keratinocytes by promoting cell proliferation and/or suppressing apoptosis. The protective effect on hair-related keratinocytes and dermal papilla cells is expected to have a positive effect on the prevention of hair loss. Therefore, we propose that ginseng, green tea, shiitake, and aloe vera polysaccharide extracts each show promise to be developed as effective pharmaceutical and/or cosmetic ingredients for preventing hair loss.