Protective Effects of Curcumin on Increased Tumor Necrosis Factor-a Level and Apoptosis in Rat Skin Exposed to Ultraviolet Light from Compact Fluorescent Lamps

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are a potential ultraviolet (UV) radiation source. Skin exposure to UV radiation induces inflammation and DNA damage. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the disorders caused by light from CFLs and potential protective impacts of curcumin on rat skin. Methods: We divided 24 male rats into three groups of 8: control group (I), without curcumin and CFLs exposure; fluorescent group (II), treated with 12 h exposure to CFLs for 15 days; and fluorescent with curcumin group (III), treated with 12 h CFLs exposure in addition to injection of curcumin 20 mg/kg, IP, daily for 15 days (group III). Their tumor necrosis factor-ɑ (TNF-?) levels were measured. Finally, the skins underwent H?and?E and TUNEL staining. ɑ) levels were measured. Finally, the skins underwent H and E and TUNEL staining. Results: Levels of TNF-ɑ in groups I, II, and III were 13.7 ± 0.46 ng/ml, 16.3 ± 0.48 ng/ml, and 14.1 ± 0.76 ng/ml, respectively. The difference between the groups I and II and also the groups II and III was meaningful (P < 0.0001). Apoptotic cells and epidermal hyperplasia were observed in group II. Administration of curcumin decreased inflammatory infiltrations and apoptotic cells in group III. Conclusions: Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, curcumin has protective impact on inflammatory complications of exposure to UV radiation.