Abstract
The development of functional cosmetics with skin improvement effects from natural sources is necessary. In this study, the antioxidant, antiwrinkling, moisturizing, and whitening effects of Gardeniae fructus extract (GF) were investigated in keratinocytes, melanocytes, and fibroblast cells. Antioxidant activity was determined by a DPPH free radical scavenging assay. MMP-1, MMP-9, HAS1, and filaggrin mRNA levels were measured by RT-PCR in keratinocytes and fibroblast cells. MITF and tyrosinase protein levels were evaluated by blotting analysis in melanocytes. DPPH free radical activity was investigated to determine whether GF showed dose-dependent inhibitory activity. GF induced the upregulation of HAS1 and filaggrin mRNA expression in keratinocytes and fibroblast cells. GF led to the downregulation of MMP mRNA levels in keratinocytes and fibroblast cells. Western blotting was performed to confirm the whitening-related protein (MITF and tyrosinase) levels induced by GF in melanocytes, and the inhibitory activity was superior to that of the α-MSH used for the comparison test. GF showed marked antioxidant, antiwrinkling, skin moisturizing, and whitening activity in keratinocytes, melanocytes, and fibroblast cells. Through the results of these experiments, the applicability of GF as a natural and functional cosmetic material was verified.
Highlights
Oxidative stress is produced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) [1]
To determine whether Gardeniae fructus extract (GF) has antioxidant activity, DPPH free radical scavenging assays were performed: α-ascorbic acid, known as vitamin C, was used as a positive control for DPPH scavenging performed: α-ascorbic acid, known as vitamin C, was used as a positive control for DPPH scavenging assays, as α-ascorbic acid is an effective antioxidant in vivo and in vitro [22,23]
The DPPH free radical assays, as α-ascorbic acid is an effective antioxidant in vivo and in vitro [22,23]
Summary
Oxidative stress is produced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) [1]. ROS and free radicals are significant components of skin aging. Aging can be divided into two types: internal and external (induced by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation) [2,3]. Aging is a result of multiple interactions between the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat and wrinkle formation caused by oxidative stress. The substances generated during this process cause increased melanin production and wrinkles. Melanin is synthesized by oxidation via tyrosinase activity. Melanocytes play an essential role in defending the skin against UV light and free radicals [4,5]. Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) is a main factor controlling the transcription of enzymes such as tyrosinase [6]
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