The Botanical Extract Feverfew PFE Reduces DNA Damage and Induces DNA Repair Processes

Abstract

Our skin is equipped with specialized cells and mechanisms that defend our bodies against pathogens, heat, and water loss. Today, our skin is exposed to increased environmental stress including solar ultraviolet radiation (which results in direct and indirect DNA damage) and atmospheric pollutants. Ozone depletion from the earth’s atmosphere as well as expanding industrial processes has led to increased exposure to pollutants including pesticides and cigarette smoke. While UV radiation, and in particular its UV-B component (280-315 nm), has several health benefits (including production of vitamin D3) (Reichrath, 2008) continuous exposure is the primary source of UV-induced DNA damage. The sun produces UV radiation classified into three broad bands. The highest energy UV-C (100-280 nm) radiation is largely absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere and thus does not affect humans. Meanwhile, the UV-B component is partially absorbed by the atmosphere and UV-A (315-400 nm) is primarily unabsorbed. While lower energy UV-A radiation penetrates beyond the epidermis, higher energy UV-B radiation primarily affects the outermost epidermal layer of skin. Harm to the body’s barrier can lead to DNA mutation or DNA replication inhibition in the skin and eyes (cataracts) and may lead to broader immunosuppression (Britt, 1995). The most serious skin cancer (malignant melanoma) occurs when excitation of a chromophore leads to either direct reaction of the excited molecule with DNA or in the production of a free radical which may also react with DNA. Since the body produces oxygen free radicals (ROS) as part of normal metabolism (during ATP production), it is able to combat oxidative stress through endogenous antioxidants. The body’s protective system, however, may become overwhelmed and compromised by environmental factors, age, or disease. Aging leads not only to increased total exposure but also to a decrease in production of endogenous antioxidants (enzymes and vitamins) and an increased risk of DNA damage. Oxidative stress can also lead to damage to other cellular components including lipids and proteins. A naturally-derived method to enhance protection against environmental factors that eventually overwhelm the body’s defense mechanisms is discussed. Another major risk of UV radiation is oxidative damage to lipids (peroxidation) and proteins. Cell membranes, which are composed of lipids, are especially