Anti-photoaging Agent Research Articles

Protective Effects of Sesame Glycoproteins on Ultraviolet-Induced Skin Aging: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a primary factor in skin photoaging, leading to wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and pigmentation changes due to damage to cellular DNA, proteins, and lipids. Glycoproteins from sesame cake (SPE) have potential protective effects against UV-induced skin aging. This study investigated the anti-photoaging effects of SPE on UV-induced damage in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells and SKH-1 hairless mice. SPE was evaluated for its ability to mitigate UV-induced damage in HaCaT cells by assessing MMP-1 protein and mRNA expression levels, as well as the activity of transcription factors AP-1 and NF-κB. The phosphorylation of AKT and MAPK pathways was also analyzed. In vivo, SKH-1 hairless mice were exposed to UV radiation, and the effects of SPE on wrinkle formation and skin structure were assessed by measuring wrinkle length, area, and volume. SPE significantly inhibited UV-induced MMP-1 protein and mRNA expression in HaCaT cells, indicating suppression of AP-1 and NF-κB transcription factors involved in MMP-1 production. Additionally, SPE reduced UV-induced phosphorylation of AKT and MAPK pathways. In SKH-1 hairless mice, SPE treatment led to significant reductions in wrinkle length, area, and volume, preserving skin structure in UV-exposed mice. The findings demonstrate that SPE has protective effects against UV-induced photoaging by inhibiting key molecular pathways associated with skin aging. SPE shows promise as a natural anti-photoaging agent, providing a foundation for future skincare product development. Further studies are warranted to explore the molecular mechanisms in detail and to validate these effects through clinical trials.

Chikusetsusaponin IVa from Dolichos lablab Linne attenuates UVB-induced skin photoaging in mice by suppressing MAPK/AP-1 signaling

Ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation-induced photoaging of the skin is characterized by amplified expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and reduced collagen fibers, both of which contribute to skin wrinkle formation. Edible natural products can protect against skin photoaging. Here, we investigate the protective effect of Dolichos lablab Linne (DLL) water extract against UVB radiation-prompted skin damage and attempt to uncover its fundamental mechanisms in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and HR-1 hairless mouse. We found DLL extract rescued the reduction in cell viability associated with UVB exposure without any associated cytotoxic effects. It also protected against skin photoaging by inhibiting mitogen-activating protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, thereby preventing the UVB-associated increase in MMP-1 and -9 expression. DLL extract also increased the expression of both superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) and catalase (CAT). We identified chikusetsusaponin IVa, soyasaponin Bb, and sandosaponin A as bioactive components of DLL. Although we have not yet identified the mechanisms by which these compounds reduce the effects of photoaging, we have demonstrated that chikusetsusaponin IVa, soyasaponin Bb, and sandosaponin A reduce MMP-1, MMP-9, p–c-Fos, and p–c-Jun expression, while also avoiding any cytotoxicity. We found oral administration of DLL extract effectively alleviated dorsal epidermal thickening and skin dehydration in HR-1 hairless mouse visible to UVB. DLL extract also prevents UVB-induced activation of the MAPK/AP-1 signaling pathway, thereby reducing the expression of MMPs in dorsal mouse skin. Our results indicate that chikusetsusaponin IVa, soyasaponin Bb, and sandosaponin A are bioavailable components of DLL extract that can reduce UVB-induced skin damage via MMPs by deactivating the MAPK/AP-1 signaling pathway. These findings suggest DLL extract can be used as a skin anti-photoaging agent.

Anti-photoaging activity of triterpenoids isolated from Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica (L.) Urban is a medical plant rich in triterpenoids, frequently used in Asia to treat skin conditions such as acne. To search for anti-photoaging agents, 16 known triterpenoids and five undescribed triterpenoids, including three ursane, one oleanane and one nor-ursane were isolated from the whole herb of C. asiatica. The structures and relative stereochemistry of these compounds were elucidated by detailed NMR spectra and HRESIMS. Compounds 1 and 2 were isomers of ursane-type and oleane-type triterpenes with rare aldehyde groups on C-23. Compound 4 was a unique example of a nor-ursane type triterpenoid. The Ultraviolet B (UVB) induced HaCaT cell damage model was used to measure the in vitro anti-photoaging activity of all 21 compounds. Twenty compounds significantly increased HaCaT viability and inhibited lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release after UVB exposure. These findings highlight the protective effects of C. asiatica-derived triterpenoids against UVB damage and indicate their potential as natural agents that can protect the skin against photoaging.

The mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications of sheepskin collagen peptide as a novel anti-photoaging agent

This study explores the protective effects of sheepskin collagen peptide (SSCP) against ultraviolet (UV) radiation-induced skin damage. Molecular docking revealed that SSCP bind to matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), forming hydrogen bonds and salt bridges, particularly through interactions with key residues Glu219, Tyr237, Ser239, and Tyr240, thereby potentially inhibiting MMP-1's catalytic activity. In UVA-irradiated human skin fibroblasts, SSCP improved cell viability and migration, reduced matrix metalloproteinases overexpression, and decreased levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde. Additionally, SSCP suppressed mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway activation, indicated by reduced phosphorylation of JNK and p38, highlighting its role in mitigating oxidative stress and aiding cellular recovery post-UVA exposure. These findings underscore the potential of SSCP as an effective ingredient in anti-photoaging cosmetics and functional foods, offering a comprehensive strategy for preserving skin health and combating UV-induced aging.

Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides, L.) pulp oil prevents ultraviolet-induced damage in human fibroblasts.

Seabuckthorn pulp oil (SBO) is used in beauty products because of its rich lipophilic substances with high nutraceutical and cosmeceutical potential. However, the mechanism through which SBO enhances skin elasticity remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, we examined the anti-photoaging activity of SBO in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Pretreatment with SBO significantly suppressed UV-B-induced cell toxicity and collagen degradation, suggesting that SBO contains anti-photoaging substances. Further, palmitoleic acid, the main component of SBO, maintained cell viability and collagen levels in UV-B-irradiated NHDF by suppressing the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1 and acted on the inhibition of p38 and JNK phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B. These findings suggest the utility of SBO as an anti-photoaging agent.

Comparative in-silico analysis of vitexin and orientin as potential antiphotoaging agents against MMP enzymes

Photoaging, a result of excessive UV exposure, increases ROS production and collagen degradation by MMPs, causing skin wrinkles and roughness. This study explores the potential of vitexin and orientin as natural antiphotoaging agents through in-silico molecular docking, comparing their efficacy against retinol in inhibiting MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9 enzymes involved in photoaging. The research utilized Hyperchem 8 for compound optimization, Chimera 1.11 for target protein preparation, and AutodockTools 1.5.6 for docking analysis. Results demonstrated that vitexin and orientin exhibit stronger affinity towards MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9, indicated by more negative binding energies than retinol. Their interaction with the MMP enzymes, characterized by specific hydrogen bonds with key amino acid residues, suggests a potent inhibitory effect. This affinity indicates vitexin and orientin’s potential as effective antiphotoaging agents, providing a basis for further exploration in skin care applications.

Marine Bioactive Peptides: Anti-Photoaging Mechanisms and Potential Skin Protective Effects.

Skin photoaging, resulting from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation, is a form of exogenous aging that not only impacts the aesthetic aspect of the skin but also exhibits a strong correlation with the onset of skin cancer. Nonetheless, the safety profile of non-natural anti-photoaging medications and the underlying physiological alterations during the process of photoaging remain inadequately elucidated. Consequently, there exists a pressing necessity to devise more secure interventions involving anti-photoaging drugs. Multiple studies have demonstrated the noteworthy significance of marine biomolecules in addressing safety concerns related to anti-photoaging and safeguarding the skin. Notably, bioactive peptides have gained considerable attention in anti-photoaging research due to their capacity to mitigate the physiological alterations associated with photoaging, including oxidative stress; inflammatory response; the abnormal expression of matrix metalloproteinase, hyaluronidase, and elastase; and excessive melanin synthesis. This review provides a systematic description of the research progress on the anti-photoaging and skin protection mechanism of marine bioactive peptides. The focus is on the utilization of marine bioactive peptides as anti-photoaging agents, aiming to offer theoretical references for the development of novel anti-photoaging drugs and methodologies. Additionally, the future prospects of anti-aging drugs are discussed, providing an initial reference for further research in this field.

Exploring the Anti-Photoaging Potential of Bacillus cereus Superoxide Dismutase in New Zealand Rabbit Skin

Bacillus cereus is a heat-resistant bacteria that produces the enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). SOD is a metalloenzyme that can eliminate free radicals as the primary cause of photoaging. The point of this study is to find out how well B. cereus works as an anti-photoaging agent on the skin of rabbits’ backs. The SOD enzyme was isolated from B. cereus using the colorimetric method and characterized for its activity. It was encapsulated by the liposome method, while the activity was measured on the rabbit’s back skin exposed to ultraviolet-A (UV-A) radiation with the parameters of moisture, elasticity, and collagen levels using a skin analyzer. At the end of the treatment, a histological test for the animal skin was performed. The particle size analysis (PSA) results on the SOD in liposomes showed nanoparticles with an adsorption efficiency of 85.0% and a zeta potential of 28.0±11.7 mV. SOD encapsulated in the liposomes also indicated anti-photoaging activity potential by increasing collagen, elasticity, and moisture levels. In addition, histological tests revealed that the collagen density in the SOD liposome treatment was higher than the negatively of control and normally of control but lower than the liposome collagen.

Green Synthesis of Zein-Based Nanoparticles Encapsulating Lupulone: Antibacterial and Antiphotoaging Agents.

Prolonged skin exposure to UV radiation may result in sunburn, with possible inflammatory and oxidative stress to the skin, skin photoaging, photocarcinogenesis, even DNA damage, and apoptosis if sunscreen protection is not used. Due to the advantages that they offer, high encapsulation capability, increased stability of encapsulated bioactive agents, and release control, nanoparticulate materials have been used in sunscreens despite the hazard that they present: their capacity to penetrate the skin causing toxic side effects (especially the chemical sunscreens). The present study reports the preparation of nanoparticulate composites containing only GRAS substances and using an eco-friendly, inexpensive procedure. The ingredients used have properties that are beneficial to the skin. Zein (Z), a prolamin-rich protein from corn, is biodegradable and biocompatible, is a moisture attractor, and shows effective absorption by cells. Lupulone (L), extracted from hops, is an antibacterial and antioxidant agent that has a stimulating effect on the collagen production in the body due to its content of phytohormones. Gum arabic (GA) is a natural glycoprotein used in beverages and cosmetics as an emulsifier/stabilizer. Composite matrices containing Z/GA/L were prepared using a simple method (antisolvent), which replaces the flammable solvent ethanol with aqueous propylene glycol. The nanocomposites were characterized by FTIR, composition, encapsulation efficiency, and loading capacity for L, size, zeta potential, and morphology (SEM). Their biological activity was investigated as well. The zein-based nanoparticles showed antioxidant and antimicrobial effects (even some synergistic, unexpected behavior) and modulatory activity on the matrix metalloproteinase MMP-1. Due to their properties, the nanoparticles discussed herein show potential for use in formulations for the skin, especially for mature skin, replacing chemical substances with potential side effects used typically in topical delivery systems.

In silico study of Impatiens balsamina L. for the screening of bioactive compounds as novel matrix metalloproteinase-1 inhibitor against photoaging

Photoaging is skin aging caused by exposure to UV rays, which increases the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1). The photoaging process is related to the degradation of collagen types I and III in the extracellular matrix by MMP-1, which causes wrinkles on the skin. MMP-1 inhibitors from natural products have the potency as anti-photoaging. This study aims to screen the potency of bioactive compounds from Impatiens balsamina L. as MMP-1 inhibitors through in silico studies. The best test ligands were selected based on bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and molecular docking tests against the target protein MMP-1 (PDB ID: 1HFC) compared to that of control ligands (PLH and doxycycline). Peonidin, kaempferol, and pelargonidin were selected as the best test ligands because they accomplish the characteristics of bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity. Based on molecular docking results, those test ligands have better binding affinity than that of control ligands, as indicated by rerank scores of -108.807 kcal/mol, -99.9796 kcal/mol, and -98.9128 kcal/mol, respectively. Those test ligands also formed the same interactions with control ligands at residues Ala182, Asn180, Glu219, and Leu181. The results suggest peonidin, kaempferol, and pelargonidin were candidates for anti-photoaging agents through MMP-1 inhibition.

Antioxidant and phytometabolite profiles of ethanolic extract from the cascara pulp of Coffea arabica collected from Gayo Highland: A study for potential anti-photoaging agent.

Background: As the most abundant coffee by-product, cascara pulp has been considered a good source of antioxidants which could be used to prevent photoaging. The aim of this study was to determine the phytometabolite profiles, antioxidant and photoaging properties of the ethanolic extract of Coffea arabica cascara pulp. Methods: Ethanolic maceration was performed on the fine powder of C. arabica cascara pulp collected from Gayo Highland, Aceh Province, Indonesia. The filtrate obtained was evaluated for its 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC). The phytometabolite profiling was conducted qualitatively using reagents and quantitatively using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The potential of the cascara pulp phytometabolites in inhibiting activator protein-1 (AP-1) was evaluated through molecular docking. Results: The extract had TPC and TFC of 2.04 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract and 91.81 mg quercetin equivalent/g extract, respectively. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC 50) for the DPPH inhibition reached as low as 9.59 mg/L. Qualitative phytocompound screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, quinones, polyphenols, and triterpenoids. GC-MS revealed the extract containing 5-hydroxy-methylfurfural (22.31%); 2,5-dimethyl-4-hydroxy-3(2H)-furanone (0.74%); and caffeine (21.07%), which could form interaction with AP-1 with binding energies of -172.8, -150.8, and -63.188 kJ/mol, respectively. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract from C. arabica cascara pulp potentially have anti-photoaging properties which is worthy for further investigations in the future.

Rosmarinus officinalis Essential Oil Increases Hair Length and Follicle Diameter of Ultraviolet B-exposed Mice Through VEGF

BACKGROUND: Ultraviolet (UVB) radiation induces hair photoaging by triggering oxidative stress, causing alterations in hair diameter and length, which contribute to the development of senile alopecia. Development of alternative anti-photoaging agents to prevent hair loss from various materials, including natural products, is currently being explored. Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil (ROEO) has been known to have antioxidant and vasodilation properties. However, the effect and mechanism of ROEO on UVB-exposed hair are still unclear. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of ROEO on the hair length and follicle diameter in UVB-exposed mice as well as the skin vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level.METHODS: Thirty male Swiss mice were treated topically with/without paraffin oil, 2% minoxidil, or various concentrations of ROEO, every day for 21 days. Meanwhile, UVB exposure was performed 3×/week. On day 21, the hair length was measured, the skin tissue was collected for hair follicle diameter and VEGF measurements.RESULTS: ROEO contained phenolic, including flavonoids and tannins, as well as non-phenolic antioxidants, including 1.8-cineole, α-pinene, and camphor. The IC50 value of ROEO was 15.977 ppm. Significant higher hair length, follicle diameter, and VEGF level of 10% ROEO+UVB-treated mice were observed, compared with the ones of mice exposed with UVB merely (LSD test, p<0.05).CONCLUSION: Since 10% ROEO could significantly increase hair length, follicle diameter and VEGF level, and contained antioxidant compounds, it can be suggested that ROEO might increase hair length, follicle diameter, and VEGF level through its antioxidant component.KEYWORDS: Rosmarinus officinalis, hair follicle diameter, hair length, VEGF, ultraviolet B, antioxidant

The potency of pinostrobin and pinocembrin as antiphotoaging agents: in silico study

Photoaging occurs when the skin ages due to ultraviolet light exposure. Phenolic compounds generally possess antioxidant activity, which helps prevent the formation of free radicals caused by sunlight exposure. This study explores the potential of pinostrobin and pinocembrin as antiphotoaging agents through molecular docking against matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs): MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9. We utilized Hyperchem 8 to prepare and optimize the test compound and Chimera 1.11.1 for protein preparation. Validation and docking procedures were conducted using the AutoDockTools 1.5.6 application, with validation confirming that the method was valid with an RMSD value ≤ 3 Å. Both pinostrobin and pinocembrin exhibited an affinity for the target protein, although their affinity was slightly less than that of the native ligand and retinol. In conclusion, pinostrobin and pinocembrin demonstrate an affinity for MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9, indicating their potential as anti-photoaging agents by obstructing the mechanisms of MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9.

KARATERISTIK ENKAPSULASI LIPOSOM EKSTRAK SUPEROKSIDA DISMUTASE (SOD) Bacillus altitudinis

Photoaging causes the dermis and collagen fibers to decrease which results in skin aging. Genus Bacillus has SOD activity as an anti-photoaging agent that can neutralize ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) due to exposure to UV-A rays. This study aimed to examine the activity of crude extract and the encapsulation characteristics of liposomes from B. altitudinis. The study began with the isolation of the SOD enzyme, determination of the total protein content of the crude extract of the SOD enzyme and liposome encapsulation, then characterization liposome tes including particle size analysis, sorption efficiency and zeta potential. The results of the crude extract activity test were 85.09% ± 1.24%. The characteristic test was produced with a size of 112.96 ± 17.3 ; the adsorption efficiency was 81.1% and the zeta potential was 7.0 ±5.1 mV. The results showed that the SOD B. altitudinis liposomes were in the nanoparticle range.

Multispectroscopic, virtual and in vivo insights into the photoaging defense mediated by the natural food colorant bixin.

An upsurge in early onset of photoaging due to repeated skin exposure to environmental stressors such as UV radiation is a challenge for pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical divisions. Current reports indicate severe side effects because of chemical or synthetic inhibitors of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) in anti-skin aging cosmeceuticals. We evaluated the adequacy of bixin, a well-known FDA certified food additive, as a scavenger of free radicals and its inhibitory mechanism of action on MMP1, collagenase, elastase, and hyaluronidase. The anti-skin aging potential of bixin was evaluated by several biotechnological tools in silico, in vitro and in vivo. Molecular docking and simulation dynamics studies gave a virtual insight into the robust binding interaction between bixin and skin aging-related enzymes. Absorbance and fluorescence studies, enzyme inhibition assays, enzyme kinetics and in vitro bioassays of human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells highlighted bixin's role as a potent antioxidant and inhibitor of skin aging-related enzymes. Furthermore, in vivo protocols were carried out to study the impact of bixin administration on UVA induced photoaging in C57BL/6 mice skin. Here, we uncover the UVA shielding effect of bixin and its efficacy as a novel anti-photoaging agent. Furthermore, the findings of this study provide a strong foundation to explore the pharmaceutical applications of bixin in several other biochemical pathways linked to MMP1, collagenase, elastase, and hyaluronidase.

Kaempferide Prevents Photoaging of Ultraviolet-B Irradiated NIH-3T3 Cells and Mouse Skin via Regulating the Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Signalings.

Kaempferide (KFD) is a naturally occurring flavonoid that exists in various medicinal plants. The pharmaceutical properties of KFD, including its anti-cancer, antioxidant and anti-diabetic effects, have been noted, but the effects of KFD on photoaging and their underlying molecular mechanism have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effects of KFD on Ultraviolet-B (UVB)-mediated photoaging processes using in vitro and in vivo photoaging model systems. The topical administration of KFD on mouse dorsal areas suppressed UVB-mediated wrinkle formation and epidermal thickening. In addition, the UVB-mediated reduction of dermal collagen content, which was estimated by Masson's trichrome staining, was recovered through KFD treatments. Furthermore, we found that UVB-induced abnormal values of procollagen type-1 (COL1A1), metalloproteinases (MMP-1a and MMP-3) and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-8, MCP-3 and IL-6) on mouse skin tissue as well as NIH-3T3 cells was recovered through KFD treatment. The administration of KFD to NIH-3T3 cells suppressed the UVB-mediated upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and AKT phosphorylation. Furthermore, the treatment of ROS inhibitor restored the UVB-induced MAPKs and AKT phosphorylation as well as the abnormal expression of photoaging related genes. These findings indicate that KFD can attenuate UVB-induced ROS elevation to elicit anti-photoaging activity. Taken together, our data suggest that KFD could be developed as a potential natural anti-photoaging agent.

The Anti-Photoaging Activity of Peptides from Pinctada martensii Meat.

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet-B (UVB) can cause photoaging. Peptides from Pinctada martensii meat have been shown to have anti-photoaging activities, but their mechanism of action is rarely studied. In this study, Pinctada martensii meat hydrolysates (PME) were prepared by digestive enzymes and then separated by ultrafiltration and Sephadex G-25 gel filtration chromatography to obtain a purified fraction (G2). The fraction G2 was identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), and peptide sequences were synthesized by solid-phase synthesis. The mechanism of anti-photoaging activities was investigated using a human immortalised epidermal (HaCaT) cell model. Results showed that peptides from Pinctada martensii meat increased UVB-induced cell viability and reduced the contents of interstitial collagenase (MMP-1) and matrix lysing enzyme (MMP-3) in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, the fraction of G2 significantly downregulated the expression of p38, EKR, JNK, MMP-1, and MMP-3 in HaCaT cells. The peptide sequences Phe-His (FH), Ala-Leu (AL), Met-Tyr (MY), Ala-Gly-Phe (AGF), and Ile-Tyr-Pro (IYP) were identified and synthesized. Besides, FH reduced the contents of MMP-1 and MMP-3 in HaCaT cells, combining them effectively in molecular docking analysis. Thus, peptides from Pinctada martensii meat showed anti-photoaging activities and might have the potential to be used as an anti-photoaging agent in functional foods.

Ginsenoside Rk1 Prevents UVB Irradiation-Mediated Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory Response, and Collagen Degradation via the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB Pathway In Vitro and In Vivo.

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, especially UVB, can trigger destructive intracellular effects, including various types of DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses, leading to accelerated skin aging. Ginsenoside Rk1, a rare ginsenoside pertaining to panaxadiol saponins, has been certified to possess underlying anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, the efficiency of Rk1 against the photoaging of human skin and the latent molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Here, UVB-irradiated HaCaT keratinocytes were used as an in vitro model, and UVB-irradiated BALB/c nude mouse dorsal skin was established as an in vivo model to explore the mechanism by which Rk1 protects skin. Consequently, we found that Rk1 administration significantly attenuated oxidative stress by suppressing reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and strengthening the activities of antioxidant enzymes. The UVB-induced inflammatory response was alleviated by Rk1 application via regulation of the secretion of various proinflammatory cytokines. Additionally, western blot assays illustrated that Rk1 intervention inhibited collagen degradation by reducing the expression of matrix metalloproteinases. Further studies revealed that Rk1 could suppress the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo. Molecular docking results indicated that Rk1 might effectively bind to the active pockets of PI3K, AKT, and NF-κB. The PI3K activator 740 Y-P clearly reversed the effects of Rk1 on oxidative stress, the inflammatory response, and collagen degradation in UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells. Moreover, histological and Masson staining verified that the administration of Rk1 to BALB/c nude mice remarkably ameliorated UVB-induced skin roughness, epidermal thickening, collagen fiber arrangement disorder, and wrinkles. Overall, the evidence provided in this study suggested that Rk1 could be applied for the development of effective natural antiphotoaging agents for skin health.

Alpinia officinarum Rhizome ameliorates the UVB induced photoaging through attenuating the phosphorylation of AKT and ERK

BackgroundChronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure is one of the major external factors in skin aging, and repetitive UVB exposure induces extracellular matrix (ECM) damage as well as metabolic disease. Alpinia officinarum Rhizome (AOR) is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used for treating rheumatism and whooping cough. However, the antiphotoaging effects of AOR remain unclear. We investigated the protective effects of water extracts of AOR (WEAOR) in terms of UVB-mediated ECM damage, wrinkle formation, inflammatory responses, and intracellular signaling on hairless mice and NIH-3T3 skin fibroblast cells.MethodsWEAOR was administered to UVB-irradiated hairless mice. Wrinkle formation was assessed using the replica assay, epidermal changes through H&E staining, and collagen contents in mice skin through Masson’s trichrome staining. The expression of procollagen type-1 (COL1A1), metalloproteinase-1a (MMP-1a), and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-3) in hairless mice skin and NIH-3T3 cells was investigated through qRT-PCR. The effects of WEAOR or signaling inhibitors on UVB-induced expression of intracellular mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were estimated by Western blotting and qRT-PCR, respectively.ResultsTopical WEAOR significantly attenuated the UVB-induced wrinkle formation and epidermal thickening in the skin of hairless mice. WEAOR treatment also attenuated the UVB-induced expression of MMP-1a and COL1A1 and recovered the reduction of collagen content in mouse skin. These effects were confirmed in NIH-3T3 skin fibroblast cells. WEAOR treatment restored the UVB-induced COL1A1 and MMP-1a gene expression and attenuated the UVB-induced expression of IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-3 in NIH-3T3 cells. Notably, WEAOR attenuated UVB-induced phosphorylation of AKT and ERK, but not that of p38 and JNK in NIH-3T3 cells. In addition, the administration of AKT and ERK inhibitors restored the UVB-induced expression of MMP-1a and COL1A1 to an equal extent as WEAOR in NIH-3T3 cells.ConclusionsThe antiphotoaging properties of WEAOR were first evaluated in this study. Our results suggest that WEAOR may be a potential antiphotoaging agent that ameliorates UVB-induced photoaging processes via the AKT and ERK signaling pathways.

Anti-Photoaging Activity of Scutellaria barbata D. Don (Family Lamiaceae) on Ultraviolet B-Irradiated NIH-3T3 Skin Fibroblast and SKH-1 Hairless Mouse.

We investigated whether Scutellaria barbata D. Don (Family Lamiaceae) (SBD), a traditional medicine used for heat clearing and detoxification, possesses antiphotoaging properties. Pretreatment of NIH-3T3 skin fibroblast cells with non-toxicological levels of water extract of SBD (WESBD) and ethanol extract of SBD (EESBD) restored the expression of procollagen type-1 (COL1A1), matrix metalloproteinase-1a (MMP-1a), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and monocyte chemotactic protein-3 (MCP-3) genes following abnormal expression induced by ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation. WESBD/EESBD administration to the dorsal skin area of hairless mice significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited UVB-induced wrinkle formation and epidermal thickness. The WESBD and EESBD treatments also restored the dermal collagen content, which was decreased by the UVB treatment, and normal COL1A1 and MMP-1a expression. Interestingly, both the WESBD and EESBD pretreatments significantly attenuated UVB-induced phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT) but not that of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). This finding indicates that the antiphotoaging effects of WESBD and EESBD may be related to attenuation of UVB-induced overactivation of AKT phosphorylation. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry analysis revealed that isorhamentin and scutebarbatine I were major single components of EESBD. These results suggest that WESBD and EESBD may have potential in development as antiphotoaging agents.