Cosmeceutical Products Research Articles

Quercetin, the Potential Powerful Flavonoid for Human and Food: A Review

Flavonoids occur naturally in different types of fruits and vegetables, including tea, cabbage, cauliflower, elderberries, cranberries, red apples, lettuce, pears, spinach, green hot peppers, white and red onions, kale, blueberries, and nuts. Among these flavonoids is quercetin, a potent natural antioxidant and cytotoxic substance with a number of therapeutic functions. Nowadays, quercetin is a common ingredient in many nutraceutical and cosmeceutical products due to its antioxidant properties. Its antibacterial effects and possible action mechanisms have been explored in many studies. From these, it has been established that quercetin stops the activity of numerous Gram-negative and -positive bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This review clarifies the plant sources and extraction methods of quercetin, as well as its medicinal applications as an antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antioxidant agent, with a particular emphasis on the underlying mechanisms of its biological activity. The mechanism of its antimicrobial effect involves damaging the cell membrane—e.g., by changing its permeability, preventing biofilm formation, reducing the mitochondrial expression of virulence factors, and inhibiting protein and nucleic-acid synthesis. Moreover, quercetin has been shown to impede the activity of a variety of drug-resistant bacterial strains, pointing to the possibility of using it as a strong antimicrobial substance against such strains. In addition, it has occasionally been demonstrated that specific structural alterations to quercetin can increase its antibacterial action in comparison to the parent molecule. Overall, this review synthesizes our understanding of the mode of action of quercetin and its prospects for use as a therapeutic material.

Emerging Applications of Herbal-Based Nanocosmeceuticals for Beauty and Skin Therapy

: Herbal cosmeceuticals are a rapidly expanding sector of the personal care industry, and their use has greatly expanded over time. The advancement of research and development is demonstrated by nanotechnology, which boosts product efficacy by delivering innovative solutions. The application of nanotechnology is growing in the field of cosmeceuticals to address numerous shortcomings of conventional herbal products. Lower penetration and high compound instability of various cosmetic products for prolonged and enhanced compound delivery to beauty-based skin therapy are the main problems with the use of phyto-based cosmeceuticals. Nanosized delivery technologies are currently being used in cosmeceutical industries and products for prolonged and improved delivery of phyto-derived bioactive chemicals to solve these drawbacks. The aseptic sensation of many cosmeceutical products is improved by nanosizing phytocompounds, which also improve skin-protective properties and sustained delivery. Nanocosmeceuticals are now commonly utilized on skin, hair, lips, and nails to treat disorders including wrinkles, photoaging, hyperpigmentations, dandruff, hair damage, chapped lips, etc. Some of the cutting-edge nanotechnologies now being used for improved delivery of the phytoconstituents in skin care therapy include liposomes, ethosomes, glycerosomes, transferosomes, niosomes, phytosomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, nanogels, etc. The advantages of these novel nanocarriers include improved skin penetration, controlled and prolonged drug release, increased stability, site-specific targeting, high entrapment efficiency, and improved bioavailability. Several phytoconstituents such as curcumin, aloe vera, resveratrol, lycopene, tocopherol, quercetin, catechins, and lutein have been successfully nanosized by employing various delivery technologies and incorporated in various gels, lotions, and creams for skin, lip, hair, and nail care for their sustained effects. The present article primarily focuses on the use of phytocompounds in various cosmeceutical products, diverse classes of innovative nanocarriers employed for delivering herbal nanocosmeceuticals, and the use of various phytobioactive compounds in novel nanocosmeceutical formulations to improve skin-based therapy.

Ceramide 3 Effect on the Physical Properties of Ambora Extract and Chromabright-Loaded Transethosomes.

Spontaneous self-assembly of phospholipids into lipid vesicles in aqueous media is called liposomes, and these structures are widely used as nanocarriers in the cosmeceutical industry. Transethosomes are ethanol and edge activator-containing liposomes that are proven to be very effective in topical applications for penetrating the skin barrier. Many cosmeceutical products contain formulations with ceramides to restore the skin barrier and treat eczema. However, due to the low solubility and penetration ability of the ceramides, the effectiveness of these products is limited. In this study, a transethosome formulation containing ceramide 3 (Cer 3) was achieved by introducing varying concentrations of cholesterol and an edge activator (Tween 80) to improve the effect of the skin products used to treat eczema. The obtained transethosomes were examined in terms of size, homogeneity, zeta potential, morphology, and one-month stability. Loading capability experiments were carried out with lipophilic Chromabright and hydrophilic Ambora extract. The effect of Cer 3 on the loading of the selected payloads was evaluated. Data were analyzed statistically with linear regression analysis and two-way analysis of variance. The results showed that the inclusion of Cer 3 had almost no effect on the physical properties of the loaded or empty transethosomes. Independently of the presence of Cer 3, loading of the lipophilic compound was more efficient than that of the hydrophilic one.

Cosmetic retinoid use in photoaged skin: A review of the compounds, their use and mechanisms of action.

The inevitable attrition of skin due to ultraviolet radiation, termed photoaging, can be partially restored by treatment with retinoid compounds. Photoaged skin in lightly pigmented individuals, clinically presents with the appearance of wrinkles, increased laxity, and hyper- and hypopigmentation. Underlying these visible signs of ageing are histological features such as epidermal thinning, dermal-epidermal junction flattening, solar elastosis and loss of the dermal fibrillin microfibrillar network, fibrillar collagen and glycosaminoglycans. Retinoid compounds are comprised of three main generations with the first generation (all-trans retinoic acid, retinol, retinaldehyde and retinyl esters) primarily used for the clinical and cosmetic treatment of photoaging, with varying degrees of efficacy, tolerance and stability. All-trans retinoic acid is considered the 'gold standard' for skin rejuvenation; however, it is a prescription-only product largely confined to clinical use. Therefore, retinoid derivatives are readily incorporated into cosmeceutical formulations. The literature reported in this review suggests that retinol, retinyl esters and retinaldehyde that are used in many cosmeceutical products, are efficacious, safe and well-tolerated. Once in the skin, retinoids utilize a complex signalling pathway that promotes remodelling of photoaged epidermis and dermis and leads to the improvement of the cutaneous signs of photoaging.

Camellia Oleifera oil-loaded chitosan nanoparticles embedded in hydrogels as cosmeceutical products with improved biological properties and sustained drug release

Hydrogels based on poly(vinyl alcohol), silk sericin, and gelatin containing Camellia oleifera oil (CO)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) were fabricated. The loading of CO into CSNPs was achieved by a two-step procedure, which included an oil-in-water emulsion and an ionic gelation method. SEM images of CO-loaded CSNPs illustrated the spherical shape with aggregation of the nanoparticles. The particle size and polydispersity index were 541–1089 nm and 0.39–0.65, respectively. The encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity were 3–16 % and 4–6 %, respectively. The gelatin/poly(vinyl alcohol)/sericin hydrogels were fabricated and incorporated with CO or CO-loaded CSNPs with different concentrations of CO-loaded CSNPs. All hydrogels demonstrated a porous structure. Besides, the hydrogels containing CO-loaded CSNPs showed a more controlled and sustained release profile than the hydrogels containing CO. Moreover, the hydrogels showed tyrosinase inhibition (9–13 %) and antioxidant activity (37–60 %). Finally, the hydrogels containing CO-loaded CSNPs were non-toxic to the Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts and NCTC clone 929 cells, even at a high dosage of 50 mg/mL. As a result, these hydrogels exhibited excellent potential for use in cosmeceutical industries.

The Role of Natural Plants with Incorporation of Tocopherols, Ubiquinone and Tocotrienols in Nanoemulsion Formulation: A Mini Review

Natural oils and fatty acids are frequently employed as key components in nanoemulsion formulations to enhance permeability in various pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Their inclusion contributes to the formulation's ability to improve the absorption and bioavailability of active ingredients. The use of these natural oils and fatty acids in nanoemulsions is valued for their compatibility with biological systems, providing a versatile and effective means to enhance the delivery. The natural plant-based derivatives in nanoemulsion are favoured due to their safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness with potential therapeutic benefits. Furthermore, incorporating natural oils and fatty acids into nanoemulsion enhances the absorption rate of bioactive content, thereby amplifying their effectiveness. Combining both tocotrienols and ubiquinone in nanoemulsions is a common practice as potent antioxidants and stabilizers in formulations. Furthermore, it may enhance the permeability of active ingredients by facilitating their absorption and bioavailability. This integration represents a highly promising strategy for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the interest of nanotechnology has grown significantly, as evidenced by the growing number of publications in this field. This innovative technology holds the potential for long-term viability in cosmetic formulations, offering businesses the opportunity to stay relevant by providing consumers with cutting-edge and effective cosmeceutical products.

Skin Rejuvenation Efficacy and Safety Evaluation of Kaempferia parviflora Standardized Extract (BG100) in Human 3D Skin Models and Clinical Trial.

Polymethoxyflavones from Kaempferia parviflora rhizomes have been shown to effectively combat aging in skin cells and tissues by inhibiting senescence, reducing oxidative stress, and enhancing skin structure and function. This study assessed the anti-aging effects and safety of standardized K. parviflora extract (BG100), enriched with polymethoxyflavones including 5,7-dimethoxyflavone, 5,7,4'-trimethoxyflavone, 3,5,7,3',4'-pentamethoxyflavone, 3,5,7-trimethoxyflavone, and 3,5,7,4'-tetramethoxyflavone. We evaluated BG100's impact on skin rejuvenation and antioxidant properties using photoaged human 3D full-thickness skin models. The potential for skin irritation and sensitization was also assessed through studies on reconstructed human epidermis and clinical trials. Additionally, in vitro genotoxicity testing was performed following OECD guidelines. Results indicate that BG100 promotes collagen and hyaluronic acid production, reduces oxidative stress, and minimizes DNA damage in photoaged full-thickness 3D skin models. Furthermore, it exhibited non-irritating and non-sensitizing properties, as supported by tests on reconstructed human epidermis and clinical settings. BG100 also passed in vitro genotoxicity tests, adhering to OECD guidelines. These results underscore BG100's potential as a highly effective and safe, natural anti-aging agent, suitable for inclusion in cosmeceutical and nutraceutical products aimed at promoting skin rejuvenation.

PLANT RAW MATERIAL AS A SOURCE OF METABOLITES FOR WOUND HEALING AND ANTI-SCARRING PRODUCT

Cosmeceutical products based on plant raw materials have a complex effect, are available, and low-toxic. The creation of new natural products for wound healing without tissue scarring is topical. For this, the secondary metabolites of the plant must demonstrate antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, and have low cytotoxicity. Aim. To conduct an analysis of literary sources in electronic databases, regarding products on the market with a wound healing effect and plant raw materials that would have a therapeutic effect on wound healing without the formation of scars. Results. The characteristics of four types of scars are described. Plants and secondary metabolites are listed according to their action: antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, collagenstimulating, and anti-scarring. Lupeol, allicin, and cinnamaldehyde show antibacterial effect; quercetin, resveratrol, luteolin, naringenin, gallic acid, and curcumin show antioxidant effect; asiatic acid, pinocembrin, and myricetin show anti-inflammatory effect. Cryptotanshinone, bexarotene, taspine, sesamol, and astragaloside IV contribute to the deposition of fresh collagen in the wound. On the Ukrainian market, there are natural wound healing products in the form of a balm, cream, and gel. They include vegetable oils, essential oils, extracts of Thymus L., Arnica montana, Inula helenium, Aloe vera, Matricaria chamomilla, etc. Wound healing medicinal products of a chemical nature occupy a large part of the Ukrainian market, among them the products with dexapentanol predominate. The use of the cell culture method as an alternative source of plant raw materials for wound and scar treatment is perspective. The biotechnological method helps preserve biodiversity and obtain chemically pure plant raw materials regardless of environmental conditions. Conclusions. The study demonstrates the possibilities of using plant raw materials to create new cosmeceuticals with wound healing and anti-scaring effects for use in combined therapy.

Cosmetovigilance in India: Industry Expert Perspective

ABSTRACTMany cosmetic and cosmeceutical products and brands are available in the Indian market. The number of new and innovative cosmetic product categories available in India are on the rise for last two decades. The cosmetic industry ranges from local small-scale businesses to multi-crore international branded ventures. Most of the local ones are often not under any rules or regulations. There is a dearth of research on cosmetovigilance despite the growing popularity and demand for cosmetic items among consumers of cosmetics. “The term “cosmetovigilance” refers to the processes involved in assessing and keeping track of unprompted reports of unfavorable outcomes during or following regular or reasonably anticipated use of a cosmetic product.”Objective: The purpose of the study is to understand the cosmetovigilance system from industry experts’ perspectives with special reference to regulatory aspects in the Indian context.Method: This is a cross-sectional qualitative and quantitative study; the data was collected through a structured questionnaire and through a questionnaire guide from selected industrial regulatory experts (targeted respondents). The purposive sampling and convincing methods were used for the study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.Result: Around 73% of regulatory experts said that companies should follow the regulatory guidelines for ensuring the safety and labeling of cosmetics. Around 66.6% responded that they have not come across any ACE reporting form by CDSCO. From the point of view of consumer safety, the establishment of cosmetovigilance practises and a reporting form is essential. Nevertheless, the companies try their best to control the safety aspects of cosmetic products.

Electrospray-Mangiferin Nanoparticles Gel: A Promising Agent for Sun and Age Defense

UV irradiation causes skin damage and aging. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a gel formulation loaded with electrospray mangiferin nanoparticles (MNPs) as a double-action product with photoprotective and anti-aging properties. The MNPs were prepared using the electrospraying technique and loaded in a gel formulation. The MNP formulation was evaluated regarding its physical appearance, viscosity, in vitro sun protection factor (SPF), and in vitro anti-oxidant activity and compared with a formulation containing purified mangiferin (PM) at the same concentration of 0.2% (w/v). Moreover, both formulations were analyzed for their in vitro release and ex vivo skin permeation. The MNP formulation had a considerably higher SPF value than the PM formulation at the same concentration (20.43 ± 0.13 and 12.19 ± 0.27, respectively). The in vitro anti-oxidant activities of the formulations with MNPs and PM were 74.47 ± 2.19% and 80.52 ± 1.05%, respectively. The MNP formulation showed potent photoprotective and anti-oxidation activities with acceptable stability in all parameters under accelerated conditions (4 ± 2 °C 48 h/45 ± 2 °C 48 h for 6 cycles) and after 30 days of storage under various conditions. The release profile data of the MNPs showed a controlled release pattern at 76.97 ± 0.06% at 480 min. Furthermore, after using a Franz diffusion cell for 8 h, the MNP formulation showed the release of 37.01 ± 2.61% and 22.39 ± 1.59% of mangiferin content in the skin layer as stratum corneum and viable epidermis, respectively. Therefore, the overall results demonstrate that electrospray MNPs in a gel formulation are suitable for skin and constitute a promising delivery system for mangiferin in developing cosmetics and cosmeceutical products with good potential.

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.): A potential small mighty giant in the field of cosmeceuticals.

Natural products are widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries due to their high-value bioactive compounds, which make for "greener" and more environmentally friendly ingredients. These natural compounds are also considered a safer alternative to antibiotics, which may result in antibiotic resistance as well as unfavorable side effects. The development of cosmeceuticals, which combine the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields to create skincare products with therapeutic value, has increased the demand for unique natural resources. The objective of this review is to discuss the biological properties of extracts derived from larvae of the black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens), the appropriate extraction methods, and the potential of this insect as a novel active ingredient in the formulation of new cosmeceutical products. This review also addresses the biological actions of compounds originating from the BSF, and the possible association between the diets of BSF larvae and their subsequent bioactive composition. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify and evaluate the various biological properties of the BSF. One such natural resource that may be useful in the cosmeceutical field is the BSF, a versatile insect with numerous potential applications due to its nutrient content and scavenging behavior. Previous research has also shown that the BSF has several biological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing effects. Given the range of biological activities and metabolites possessed by the BSF, this insect may have the cosmeceutical potential to treat a number of skin pathologies.

Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Spirogyra Species from Water Bodies in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand: Insights into Bioactivity and Antioxidant Potentialin

This study aimed to identify Spirogyra species collected from lentic (sampling site code CR01) and lotic (sampling site code CR02) water areas in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. The diagnosis was proceeded by studying the morphological characteristics combined with molecular techniques with the chloroplast rbcL gene (ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase). Additionally, the bioactive properties of Spirogyra extracts were evaluated through antimicrobial and antioxidant assays. The extraction was performed with water and ethanol extraction. The results indicated that the morphological characteristics of Spirogyra CR01 resembled Spirogyra neglecta, but the data of rbcL gene for this species were not available in the database. Therefore, the Spirogyra CR01 sequence was added to the GenBank database, representing the report of rbcL gene of Spirogyra neglecta sequencing data. Spirogyra CR02 was robustly identified as S. fluviatilisthrough molecular analysis. The extracts from both Spirogyra samples showed that the ethanolic extract has more activity than the water extract. The antimicrobial ability of the ethanolic extract from Spirogyra CR02 was observed to inhibit the growth of Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus, while the ethanolic extract from Spirogyra CR01 only inhibited B. cereus. Moreover, the ethanolic extract of Spirogyra CR01 had statistically significant (p<0.05) antioxidant activity, with the highest value recorded at 114.92±2.38 mg GAE/g extract. Overall, this study provides new sequencing information on the S. neglecta and their potential for use Spirogyra in functional food, functional ingredients and cosmeceutical products.

Spa Product Containing Plumeria acuminataand and Pandanus amaryllifolius Absolute for Antioxidant and Anti-wrinkle Activity: In vitro and In vivo Testing

This study investigated the biological activities of Plumeria acuminata absolute (PLA), Pandan amaryllifolius absolute (PDA), and the essential oil blends (EOB2, EOB5) combining PLA, PDA, and other essential oils. It also aimed to identify the selected EOB for GC-MS analysis, develop this EOB into a cream, and determine its stability. Additionally, clinical evaluations were conducted to evaluate the cream’s efficacy on skin moisture, wrinkles, and irritation. PLA, PDA, and EOB2 exhibited potent anti-oxidants and anti-aging effects. They effectively showed free radicals scavenging (DPPH, ABTS), inhibiting lipid peroxidation, and suppressing hyaluronidase and collagenase activities. Due to its superior stability, EOB2 was selected for subsequent analysis. It demonstrated a potent inhibitory activity against MMP-2 enzymes. From GC-MS analysis, limonene was identified as the main component in EOB2. The 1.5%EOB cream maintained excellent stability under accelerated conditions. From the clinical study tested in 20 healthy volunteers after 8 weeks of twice diary application, it was found that the cream containing 1.5%EOB2 did not cause any skin irritation and significantly improved skin hydration. It also showed statistically significant decreases in wrinkle area, wrinkle depth, and skin roughness compared to the baseline. In conclusion, cream containing EOB could be a promising cosmeceutical or spa product for anti-aging purposes.

A Less than Lay-Friendly Translation: A Textual Analysis of Information Leaflets and Labels for Drug and Cosmeceuticals in Thailand

Abstract Information on drug use should be easily comprehensible and provide clear instructions without relying on expert advice. Drawing upon the concept of lay-friendly translation (Askehave and Zethsen 2002, 2014; Jensen 2013), this study examines the translated information leaflets and labels of drug-related and cosmeceutical products in Thailand to understand characteristics of supposedly reachable language use. The findings reveal both lay-friendly and non-lay-friendly features in the English-to-Thai translations. Indicative of the former is the use of general terms, explanation, glossing, rewriting/summarising, syntactical shift, and stylistic shift. Instances of the latter include the direct transfer of field-specific terms and the use of Thai medical vocabulary. The Thai-to-English translation tends to adhere to the original version, including textual organisation and compliance with Thai legislation, yet the cultural-specific items are omitted. The presence of both lay-friendly and non-lay-friendly elements in a single translation contributes to a ‘less than lay-friendly’ translation.

Development and Efficacy Evaluation of Innovative Cosmetic Formulations with Caryocar brasiliense Fruit Pulp Oil Encapsulated in Freeze-Dried Liposomes.

Encapsulation and drying technologies allow the engineering of innovative raw materials from plant biodiversity, with potential applications in pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields. Lipid-based nanoencapsulation stands out for its efficiency, ease of production, and versatility in encapsulating substances, whether hydrophilic or lipophilic. This work aimed at encapsulating pequi oil in liposomes and freeze-dried liposomes to enhance its stability and functional benefits, such as skin hydration and anti-aging effects, for use in innovative cosmetic formulations. Pequi oil-extracted from the Caryocar brasiliense fruit pulp, a plant species from Brazilian plant biodiversity-is rich in secondary metabolites and fatty acids. Liposomes and dried liposomes offer controlled production processes and seamless integration into cosmetic formulations. The physicochemical analysis of the developed liposomes confirmed that the formulations are homogeneous and electrokinetically stable, as evidenced by consistent particle size distribution and zeta potential values, respectively. The gel-type formulations loaded with the dried liposomes exhibit enhanced skin hydration, improved barrier function, and refined microrelief, indicating improvements in skin conditions. These results highlight the potential of dried liposomes containing pequi oil for the development of innovative cosmeceutical products. This research contributes to the valorization of Brazilian biodiversity by presenting an innovative approach to leveraging the dermatological benefits of pequi oil in cosmetic applications.

Enhancement of Physical Appearance, Skin Permeation, and Odor Reduction Using Liposome of Hydrolyzed Salmon Collagen for Cosmetic Products.

Hydrolyzed collagen (HC) derived from salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) skin possesses properties that can nourish the skin, and it is one of the active ingredients used in cosmeceutical products for moisturizing the facial skin. However, HC solution gives off a fishy odor and it is gray in color that makes the product unacceptable for cosmetic purposes. This study aimed to use liposome-encapsulated hydrolyzed salmon collagen to improve its physical appearance, skin permeation, and eliminate the fishy odor. Two percent of HC and vitamin B3 (VitB3) were used as active ingredients to incorporate into liposomes. Phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, and Tween 80 at a suitable weight ratio of 8 : 2 : 1 produced nano-sized vesicles (170.6 ± 0.70 nm) with the highest percentage of entrapment efficiency (95.72 ± 2.00%) of VitB3 and (49.63 ± 1.74%) of HC. Skin permeation and odor detection of the HC-VitB3 liposome were studied using Franz's diffusion cell and gas chromatography, respectively, and compared with HC-VitB3 solution. Subsequently, facial serums were formulated using HC-VitB3 liposomes and HC-VitB3 solutions, and a product satisfaction test was conducted with 100 volunteers to determine their preferred product. The results of the studies of HC-VitB3 liposome serum showed improved formulation appearance, enhanced skin permeation, and better odor elimination compared to the HC-VitB3 serum. Furthermore, seventy-three volunteers in the product satisfaction test preferred and selected the liposomal serum for its superior scent. From all the experimental results, it could be seen that liposomes can help increase skin penetration, and undesirable odors and colors can be masked by the appropriate lipid bilayer structure of liposomes.

Development and in vitro evaluation of liposomal carnosine for dermatological and cosmeceutical applications

Carnosine is a dipeptide with unique antioxidant and antiaging properties that has been used in several cosmeceutical products to enhance their antiaging and wound healing effect. However, the skin penetration of carnosine is rather poor, and research is focusing on identifying ways to overcome the stratum corneum barrier. Liposomes are a viable and well-studied solution for drug delivery through the skin. Herein, three types of carnosine-loaded liposomes were developed by utilizing the modified heating method (MHM) and evaluated in terms of physicochemical properties and stability. Specifically, a conventional liposome, an ultradeformable liposome (transferosome/elastosome) with Tween 80 and a ceramide-containing liposome (ceramidosome) were studied and formulated. An in vitro skin permeation study (IVPT) was performed to assess the formulation effect on carnosine skin permeability. All nanoparticles exhibited good physicochemical properties and stability, appropriate for dermatological and cosmeceutical applications. Conventional liposomes and transferosomes were found to have the highest encapsulation efficiency. Formulations that were stored in the refrigerator performed better in terms of stability over time. Cumulative permeation of applied dose was 6 % for the three liposomal formulations, compared to non-detectable skin permeation for the reference formulations. Skin carnosine retention varied from 20 to 30 % of the applied dose for the liposomal formulations, and from 2 to 4 % for a conventional carnosine gel. The herein developed liposomal formulations of carnosine can be further utilized in in vitro or in vivo applications to establish their pharmacological effect.

Ethyl acetate fraction of Sargassum pallidum extract attenuates particulate matterinduced oxidative stress and inflammation in keratinocytes and zebrafish

Objective: To evaluate the effect of the ethyl acetate fraction derived from Sargassum pallidum extract against particulate matter (PM)-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in HaCaT cells and zebrafish. Methods: HaCaT cells and zebrafish were used to evaluate the protective effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of Sargassum pallidum extract against PM-induced oxidative stress and inflammation. The production of nitric oxide (NO), intracellular ROS, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the expression levels of COX-2, iNOS, and NF-κB were evaluated in PM-induced HaCaT cells. Furthermore, the levels of ROS, NO, and lipid peroxidation were assessed in the PM-exposed zebrafish model. Results: The ethyl acetate fraction of Sargassum pallidum extract significantly decreased the production of NO, intracellular ROS, and PGE2 in PM-induced HaCaT cells. In addition, the fraction markedly suppressed the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibited the expression levels of COX-2, iNOS, and NF-κB. Furthermore, it displayed remarkable protective effects against PM-induced inflammatory response and oxidative stress, represented by the reduction of NO, ROS, and lipid peroxidation in zebrafish. Conclusions: The ethyl acetate fraction of Sargassum pallidum extract exhibits a protective effect against PM-induced oxidative stress and inflammation both in vitro and in vivo and has the potential as a candidate for the development of pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical products.

FIRST REPORT OF THE AMINO ACID AND FATTY ACID COMPOSITION OF JELLYFISH (LOBONEMOIDES ROBUSTUS STIASNY, 1920) COLLECTED DURING JELLYFISH BLOOM ALONG THE COX’S BAZAR COAST, BANGLADESH

Jellyfish (JF) are essential to marine ecosystems. However, JF that increases rapidly can have negative effects. On 3-4 August 2022, a significant JF (Lobonemoides robustus Stiasny, 1920) bloom was observed along Cox’s Bazar coast (from Najdirartek to Sabrang) in Bangladesh. The goal of the current investigation was to identify the fatty acids (FAs) and amino acids (AAs) of L. robustus. The AAs were determined using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, while the FAs were determined using a gas chromatographic system with a flame ionisation detector. The most prevalent AA was glycine. The most common FA was linoleic acid (C18:3) (0.43%), followed by myristic acid (0.12%), cis-9-oleic acid (0.18%), gamma-linolenic acid (0.24%), and heptadecanoic acid (0.29%). Based on its AA and FA contents, L. robustus can be a great candidate for the potentially sustainable manufacture of nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, and biomedical natural products to improve health and well-being. In addition, the edible L. robustus could be exported to other countries, thus way it can play a major role in achieving a blue economy.

Natural Stabilizers and Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Entrapment for Photosensitive Compounds, Curcumin and Capsaicin.

Capsaicin and curcumin, the active components of chili and turmeric, are prone to instability when exposed to light. Therefore, this research aimed to enhance the photostability of both extracts via the use of antioxidants, natural sunscreen, and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). NLCs were chosen for this this study due to their advantages in terms of stability, drug loading capacity, occlusive effect, skin penetration, and controlled release. The photostability of each extract and extracts mixed with antioxidants, including grape seed extract, tea extract, and chlorogenic acid, were determined. Chlorogenic acid can enhance the photostability of capsaicin from 6.79 h to 16.50 h, while the photostability of curcumin increased from 9.63 h to 19.25 h. In addition, the use of natural sunscreen (sunflower oil) also increased the photostability of capsaicin and curcumin. The mixed extracts were then loaded into NLCs. The particle size of the formulation was 153.73 nm with a PDI value of 0.25. It exhibited high entrapment efficiency (more than 95%). In addition, it effectively reduced the decomposition of capsaicin and curcumin. Importantly, the natural stabilizers chosen for NLC fabrication significantly improved the photostability of curcumin and capsaicin by 600% and 567% compared to the unstabilized counterparts. This improvement contributes to the sustainability and bioavailability of these compounds in both cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical products.