Reduce Skin Damage Research Articles

Dihuangzicao Granules Regulate the AGE/RAGE/NF-κB Signaling Pathway to Inhibit Inflammation in Psoriatic Mice via Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation.

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin disease that occurs worldwide and is characterized by high prevalence and chronicity. Psoriasis has a complex pathogenesis and is difficult to cure. Therefore, continuous exploration of the pathogenesis of psoriasis and the search for new drug treatment methods are crucial for improving treatment efficiency and reducing psychological damage to psoriasis patients. The active ingredients in Dihuang Zicao granules (DHZCG) can effectively treat psoriasis. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the active ingredients of DHZCG and their potential mechanisms for treating psoriasis. The effective components of DHZCG were screened via the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). Genetic information for psoriasis was retrieved from the GeneCards, OMIM and DisGENET databases. Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) analysis was performed, and component‒target‒disease networks were constructed. Important molecular biological processes and signaling pathways were screened via GO and KEGG analyses. Molecular docking of the active ingredients and key targets was performed via AutoDock Vina (1.1.2). A mouse model of psoriasis was established and divided into a control group, model group, low-dose DHZCG group (L-DHZCG), medium-dose DHZCG group (M-DHZCG), and high-dose DHZCG group (H-DHZCG). Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining was performed to determine the pathological changes in the skin of each group of mice, and the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score was used to assess skin damage. ELISA and RT‒ PCR were used to measure the levels of the inflammatory factors TNF-a, IL-17A, and IL-23 in the serum and skin tissue of the mice, respectively. Western blotting was used to analyze the expression of proteins related to the AGE/RAGE signaling pathway. Immunofluorescence was used to examine the expression of the inflammatory factor NF-kB. Immunohistochemistry was used to measure IL-1β and TNF-a expression in skin tissues. Sixty genes associated with psoriasis treatment by DHZCG, including core genes encoding IL-6, TNF-a, AKT1, IL-1β, TP53, NFKB1, BCL2, and MAPK3, were identified. Through the construction of a psoriasis mouse model, DHZCG treatment effectively reduced skin damage and significantly decreased the levels of the validated factors TNF-a, IL-17A, IL- 23, IL-1b, and NF-kB in the serum and damaged skin. Furthermore, the reduction in the levels of these inflammatory factors by DHZCG is associated with the downregulation of the AGE/RAGE signaling pathway. DHZCG reduces inflammation and alleviates psoriasis by downregulating the AGE/RAGE/NF-kB signaling pathway. This study is beneficial for providing a theoretical basis for the development of drugs for psoriasis and for offering personalized treatment strategies for the clinical management of psoriasis.

Therapeutic effects of chamomile volatile oil nanoemulsion/Bletilla striata polysaccharides gels on atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic skin condition characterized by complex immune responses. Chamomile possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties and has been widely used in treating various skin diseases. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic benefits of chamomile volatile oil nanoemulsion gels (CVO-NEGs) for the treatment of AD. Chamomile volatile oil nanoemulsions (CVO-NEs) were prepared using the phase transition method, yielding spherical nanoparticles with a particle size of 19.07 nm. Subsequently, Bletilla striata polysaccharides were employed to encapsulate CVO-NEs, resulting in the formation of CVO-NEGs. In vivo studies demonstrated that the preparation of CVO-NEGs enhanced the biological activity of volatile oil in AD therapy. Histopathological results indicated that CVO-NEGs reduced skin damage, epidermal thickness, and mast cell infiltration. CVO-NEGs suppressed IgG production and reduced the levels of cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-4, and IFN-γ, in AD mice. Furthermore, flow cytometry revealed that CVO-NEGs were involved in regulating the differentiation of CD4+ T cell subsets. The immune imbalance of Th1/Th2 in AD mice can be controlled, resulting in a reduction in the hypersensitivity reaction caused by excessive Th2 activation. In conclusion, the present study confirms that CVO-NEGs have the potential to serve as an effective alternative treatment for AD.

Clinical Studies Using Topical Melatonin.

Melatonin is ubiquitously present in all animals and plants, where it exerts a variety of physiological activities thanks to its antioxidant properties and its key role as the first messenger of extracellular signaling functions. Most of the clinical studies on melatonin refer to its widespread oral use as a dietary supplement to improve sleep. A far smaller number of articles describe the clinical applications of topical melatonin to treat or prevent skin disorders by exploiting its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This review focuses on the clinical studies in which melatonin was applied on the skin as a photoprotective, anti-aging, or hair growth-promoting agent. The methodologies and results of such studies are discussed to provide an overall picture of the state of the art in this intriguing field of research. The clinical studies in which melatonin was applied on the skin before exposure to radiation (UV, sunlight, and high-energy beams) were all characterized by an appropriate design (randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled) and strongly support its clinical efficacy in preventing or reducing skin damage such as dermatitis, erythema, and sunburn. Most of the studies examined in this review do not provide a clear demonstration of the efficacy of topical melatonin as a skin anti-aging or as a hair growth-promoting agent owing to limitations in their design and/or to the use of melatonin combined with extra active ingredients, except for one trial that suggests a possible beneficial role of melatonin in treating some forms of alopecia in women. Further research efforts are required to reach definitive conclusions concerning the actual benefits of topical melatonin to counteract skin aging and hair loss.

Formulation Development of Haritaki Cream by Using 2 (square ) Factorial Design

Creams, in general, are versatile skincare formulations that provide a balance of water and oil to deliver hydration and nutrients to the skin. Eye creams are a category of skincare products specifically designed for the sensitive and delicate skin around the eyes. The skin in this area is thinner and more prone to issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles. Eye creams are formulated to be lightweight and easily absorbed, and they typically contain ingredients tailored to address these specific concerns. Common ingredients in eye creams include hydrating agents, anti-aging compounds, brightening ingredients, and sometimes caffeine or other ingredients to reduce puffiness. From the developed formulation of haritaki cream we concluded that it can be used for dark circle. It contains various other excipients like potato starch, alovera, methyl and propyl paraben etc. it does not only reduce dark circles but also glows skin and reduces skin damage. As it causes no irritation it is better than allopathic cream. As it had passed all the evaluation parameters like pH, washability, phase separation, irritations, edema, spread ability etc.

Salvianolic acid A prevents UV-induced skin damage by inhibiting the cGAS-STING pathway

DNA damage resulting from UV irradiation on the skin has been extensively documented in numerous studies. In our prior investigations, we demonstrated that UVB-induced DNA breakage from keratinocytes can activate the cGAS-STING pathway in macrophages. The cGAS-STING signaling pathway serves as the principal effector for detecting and responding to abnormal double-stranded DNA in the cytoplasm. Expanding on our previous findings, we have further validated that STING knockout significantly diminishes UVB-induced skin damage, emphasizing the critical role of cGAS-STING activation in this context. Salvianolic acid A, a principal active constituent of Salvia miltiorrhiza Burge, has been extensively studied for its therapeutic effects in conditions such as coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. However, its effect on cGAS-STING pathway and its ability to alleviate skin damage have not been previously reported. In a co-culture system, supernatant from UVB-treated keratinocytes induced IRF3 activation in macrophages, and this activation was inhibited by salvianolic acid A. Our investigation, employing photodamage and photoaging models, establishes that salvianolic acid A effectively mitigates UV-induced epidermal thickening and collagen degeneration. Treatment with salvianolic acid A significantly reduced skin damage, epidermal thickness increase, and keratinocyte hyperproliferation compared to the untreated photo-damage and photoaging model groups. In summary, salvianolic acid A emerges as a promising candidate for preventing UV-induced skin damage by inhibiting cGAS-STING activation. This research enhances our understanding of the intricate mechanisms underlying skin photodamage and provides a potential avenue for the development of therapeutic interventions.

Analysis of the Effect of Radiotherapy Skin Protective Agents on Skin Reactions in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Radiotherapy

Objective: To analyze the application effect of radiotherapy skin protective agents on skin reactions in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma radiotherapy. Methods: One hundred and twenty nasopharyngeal cancer patients admitted to the hospital from January 2017 to January 2023 were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group of 60 cases each. Both groups received radiotherapy. The control group received traditional intervention methods while the observation group received traditional intervention methods combined with radiation therapy and skin protective agent intervention. The skin reactions, pain, comfort, and quality of life were compared between the two groups. Results: Both groups of patients had skin reactions, but the severity of skin reactions in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). On the last day of radiotherapy, the pain score of the observation group was lower than that of the control group, and the comfort score was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The total quality of life scores of the patients in the observation group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In treating skin reactions in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma undergoing radiotherapy, the application of radiotherapy skin protective agents reduced skin damage and pain and increased their quality of life.

Green cocoon-derived sericin reduces cellular damage caused by radiation in human keratinocytes

Radiation therapy used in the treatment of cancer causes skin damage, and no method of care has been established thus far. Recently, it has become clear that sericin derived from silkworm cocoons has moisturizing and antioxidant functions. In addition, green cocoon-derived sericin, which is rich in flavonoids, may have enhanced functions. However, whether this green cocoon-derived sericin can reduce radiotherapy-induced skin damage is unclear. In the present study, we aimed at establishing care methods to reduce skin cell damage caused by X-irradiation using green cocoon-derived sericin. We investigated its effect on human keratinocytes using lactate dehydrogenase activity to indicate damage reduction. Our results showed that green cocoon-derived sericin reduced cell damage caused by X-irradiation. However, this effect was not observed when cells were treated before X-irradiation or with a sericin derived from white cocoons. In addition, green cocoon-derived sericin decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. Our results suggest that green cocoon sericin mitigates the damaging effect of X-irradiation on cells, hence presenting potential usefulness in reducing skin damage from radiation therapy and opening new avenues in the care of cancer patients.

Oleogel-S10 in Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: A Case Series Evaluating the Impact on Wound Burden Over Two Years.

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of rare, difficult-to-treat, inherited multisystem diseases affecting epithelial integrity. Impaired wound healing is central and can lead to serious clinical complications, deformities, and symptoms with a devastating impact on quality of life (QoL). Dressing changes and wound care are central to the management of EB. Recently Oleogel-S10 (also known as birch bark extract or birch triterpenes) was approved in Europe and the UK for treating EB wounds. This approval was based on data from the EASE phase3 study, which demonstrated Oleogel-S10 accelerated wound healing, reduced total wound burden, and decreased the frequency of dressing changes in patients with EB. A retrospective analysis of medical records was conducted for up to 24months in 13 patients with EB treated with Oleogel-S10 through an early access programme in Colombia. Effectiveness was assessed by measuring body surface area percentage (BSAP) and total body wound burden (EBDASI). Tolerability and safety were monitored throughout. This is the first report to evaluate the effectiveness of Oleogel-S10 in clinical practice. The results showed a reduction in percentage of BSA affected, from a mean of 27.3% at baseline to 10.4% at 24-month follow-up, despite treatment interruptions. A reduction in EBDASI skin activity score of - 16.2 (24months) together with a reduced skin damage index score of - 15.4 (18months) was also observed. Physicians, patients, and caregivers perceived faster wound closure. Adherence with therapy by patients was good, and patients expressed satisfaction with treatment and reported improvements in self-esteem, productivity, and social interaction. Oleogel-S10 was well tolerated; however, two patients reported worsening wounds related to gauze adherence. Two deaths during treatment interruption were reported and was not considered related to Oleogel-S10. This study supports the effectiveness of Oleogel-S10 in a real-world scenario in a country with scarce resources for the treatment of EB.

Development of Essential Oil-Loaded Polymeric Nanocapsules as Skin Delivery Systems: Biophysical Parameters and Dermatokinetics Ex Vivo Evaluation.

Essential oils (EOs) are natural antioxidant alternatives that reduce skin damage. However, EOs are highly volatile; therefore, their nanoencapsulation represents a feasible alternative to increase their stability and favor their residence time on the skin to guarantee their effect. In this study, EOs of Rosmarinus officinalis and Lavandula dentata were nanoencapsulated and evaluated as skin delivery systems with potential antioxidant activity. The EOs were characterized and incorporated into polymeric nanocapsules (NC-EOs) using nanoprecipitation. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the ferric thiocyanate method. The ex vivo effects on pig skin were evaluated based on biophysical parameters using bioengineering techniques. An ex vivo dermatokinetic evaluation on pig skin was performed using modified Franz cells and the tape-stripping technique. The results showed that the EOs had good antioxidant activity (>65%), which was maintained after nanoencapsulation and purification. The nanoencapsulation of the EOs favored its deposition in the stratum corneum compared to free EOs; the highest deposition rate was obtained for 1,8-cineole, a major component of L. dentata, at 1 h contact time, compared to R. officinalis with a major deposition of the camphor component. In conclusion, NC-EOs can be used as an alternative antioxidant for skin care.

PYR-41, an inhibitor of ubiquitin-activating enzyme E1, attenuates 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in mice.

PYR-41 is an irreversible and cell permeable inhibitor of ubiquitin-activating enzyme E1, and has been reported to inhibit the degradation of IκB protein. Previous studies have shown that PYR-41 has effects on anti-inflammatory, but whether it has therapeutic effects on allergic dermatitis is unclear. The aim of this research was to explore the therapeutic effects of PYR-41 on atopic dermatitis. The effects of PYR-41 on the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway and the expression of inflammatory genes in HaCat cells were tested by western blot and qPCR. A mouse model was built, and the AD-like skin lesions were induced by 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). Then, the treatment effects of PYR-41 were examined by skin severity score, ear swelling, ELISA, and qPCR. The results showed that PYR-41 can significantly reduce the K63-linked ubiquitination level of nuclear factor-κB essential modulator (NEMO) and tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6), inhibit the proteasomal degradation of IκBα, thereby activate TNF-α-induced NF-κB signaling pathway in HaCat cells. In addition, DNCB-treated mice have significant reduction in symptoms after treated by PYR-41, including reduced ear thickening and reduced skin damage. Serum tests showed that PYR-41 significantly reduced the expression of IgE, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. In conclusion, the current results suggest that PYR-41 has potential to reduce the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

Impact of ultraviolet radiation on the skin and the role of photoprotection – the review of the literature

Introduction and objective: 
 The sun emits ultraviolet radiation in the UV-A, UV-B and UV-C ranges. Photoprotection is used to prevent the impact of this radiation on the skin. It effectively counteracts photoaging, photodermatoses and photocarcinogenesis.
 The aim of the study is to discuss the impact of UV radiation on the skin and the role of sun protection, also in special groups of patients - children and non-immunocompetent people. The article also presents a summary of data on the effect of sunscreens on vitamin D synthesis.
 Materials and methods: 
 The literature was reviewed in the Pubmed, Google Scholar database and in the recommendations of the Polish Dermatological Society with the use of keywords.
 State of knowledge: 
 Erythema is the most visible effect of sunburn, but exposure to UV radiation is primarily photocarcinogenesis or photoimmunosuppression. The SPF factor is the main determinant of the effectiveness of sunscreens, but effective protection against both UVB and UVA radiation is essential. Daily use of sunscreen reduces skin damage associated with exposure to light and does not negatively affect vitamin D synthesis.
 Conclusions:
 The basis of skin protection is using sunscreens, avoiding excessive exposure to solar radiation and using protective clothing, hats and sunglasses. Thanks to these activities, we can significantly reduce the number of cases of certain skin cancers. It is also important to remember that sun protection applies to everyone, especially children and non-immunocompetent people.

Mitigating the skin irritation potential of mixtures of anionic and non-ionic surfactants by incorporating low-toxicity silica nanoparticles

There has been a notable upswing in the adoption of product formulations based on nanotechnology within the cosmetics industry. By using nanocarriers, such as solid or micellar nanoparticles, the quality and performance of cosmetics can be improved, allowing for better transport of bioactive components into the skin. However, it is important to note that the interaction between these compounds may lead to skin irritation. To mitigate skin irritability, nano-formulation strategies should be implemented in cosmetics. A proof-of-concept study was therefore conducted to investigate if low-toxicity nanoparticles (silica) could be used in combination with a mixture of anionic surfactants and a low-irritant cosurfactant (non-ionic) to develop safer cosmetic formulations that reduce skin damage. The skin irritation potential of the formulations was assessed in vitro using the well-known Zein method.As anticipated, non-ionic surfactants pose the lowest risk for skin irritation. When compared to single anionic surfactants, non-ionic/anionic mixtures were found to decrease skin irritability by 24–67 %. However, when silica nanoparticles (NPs) were added to single surfactants, the potential for skin irritation increased, particularly when the anionic surfactant molecules were arranged in a spherical core-shell structure around the surface of the NPs. On the other hand, incorporating NPs in surfactant mixtures enhanced their formulation stability. While all three-component formulations were found to decrease skin irritability, those that formed spherical core-shell structures demonstrated the most significant reduction, likely related to a reduction in charge density caused by the non-ionic surfactant which may decrease protein solubilisation. Therefore, the inclusion of silica NPs can potentially result in a further reduction of the skin irritation potential caused by mixtures of anionic and non-ionic surfactants.

Effects of mesotherapy introduction of compound glycyrrhizin injection on the treatment of moderate to severe acne.

Compound glycyrrhizin has achieved outstanding results in the treatment of various skin diseases. However, the use of mesotherapy to inject compound glycyrrhizin into the skin to treat acne is still understudied. This paper aims to explore the effects of mesotherapy introduction of compound glycyrrhizin injection on the acne. A total of 108 patients were included in this study and divided into the control group (n=54) and the observation group (n=54). The control group was treated with topical clindamycin gel, while the study group was treated with topical clindamycin gel + mesotherapy and compound glycyrrhizin injection. Skin transepidermal water loss (TEWL), cuticle water content, acne severity, adverse reactions, and inflammatory reactions were documented before and after treatment in the two groups. The usage of mesotherapy to inject compound glycyrrhizin into the skin of acne patients more effectively treat acne than traditional clindamycin gel. The mesotherapy compound glycyrrhizin can more effectively protect the skin barrier of patients and reduce the loss of skin moisture. Compared with the traditional clindamycin gel, the combination of mesotherapy and compound glycyrrhizin more effectively inhibit the inflammatory reaction in acne patients and reduce skin damage in acne patients. Mesoderm introduction of compound glycyrrhizin injection has better effects on the treatment of moderate to severe acne than clindamycin gel.

Progress of phototherapy for osteosarcoma and application prospect of blue light photobiomodulation therapy.

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor that mainly affects the pediatric and adolescent population; limb salvage treatment has become one of the most concerned and expected outcomes of OS patients recently. Phototherapy (PT), as a novel, non-invasive, and efficient antitumor therapeutic approach including photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), has been widely applied in superficial skin tumor research and clinical treatment. OS is the typical deep tumor, and its phototherapy research faces great limitations and challenges. Surprisingly, pulse mode LED light can effectively improve tissue penetration and reduce skin damage caused by high light intensity and has great application potential in deep tumor research. In this review, we discussed the research progress and related molecular mechanisms of phototherapy in the treatment of OS, mainly summarized the status quo of blue light PBMT in the scientific research and clinical applications of tumor treatment, and outlooked the application prospect of pulsed blue LED light in the treatment of OS, so as to further improve clinical survival rate and prognosis of OS treatment and explore corresponding cellular mechanisms.

We Can Do Better at Protecting Our Service Members From Skin Cancer.

Skin cancer rates have been steadily increasing among the American public for decades, but multiple studies have demonstrated that the U.S. military suffers from higher rates of skin cancer than the general public. As with so many aspects of health, simple preventive measures made early on can dramatically improve long-term health outcomes. Ample research has demonstrated that ultraviolet protection reduces skin damage and cancer rates. Although further research is needed to fully understand current barriers to soldiers' use of sun protection, we recommend a variety of simple measures the U.S. military can implement to reduce skin cancer risk for our soldiers. Early education and intervention to reduce skin cancer risk and promote sun-protective strategies is critical. These include improving sun protection offered by uniform items, such as increasing the availability of the sun hat, using eye protection with tinted inserts, and testing and publicizing the ultraviolet protection level of uniform items. We also recommend increasing sunscreen access for soldiers. Options to do so include issuing soldiers small portable packets or bottles of sunscreen to carry on their person, incorporating small packets of sunscreen in MREs, and issuing sunscreen to commands to distribute before field exercises. Unit and medical leadership should encourage the use of sunscreen and sun-protective strategies when possible; leadership engagement is critical to overcoming current behavioral barriers to change. Finally, we recommend that units attempt to reduce sun exposure during training by encouraging soldiers to seek shade and avoiding outdoor training in the middle of the day.

Four-Octyl Itaconate Attenuates UVB-Induced Melanocytes and Keratinocytes Apoptosis by Nrf2 Activation-Dependent ROS Inhibition.

Vitiligo is an acquired skin depigmentation disease in which excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical pathogenic role in melanocyte destruction. The complex crosstalk between melanocytes and keratinocytes in vitiligo suggests that treatments aimed at protecting both the cells might be meaningful. In this study, we investigated the effect of 4-octyl itaconate (4-OI), an itaconate derivative, on ultraviolet B- (UVB-) induced apoptosis in HaCaT and PIG1 cells and the underlying mechanisms. HaCaT and PIG1 cells were pretreated with 4-OI (50 or 100 μM) for 24 h and then exposed to 300 mJ/cm2 UVB (emission range 290–320 nm, emission peak 310 nm). ROS levels and cell apoptosis were investigated using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry 24 h after irradiation. In addition, nuclear translocation and the expression of pathway-related proteins and mRNAs were detected using confocal microscopy, western blotting, and qRT-PCR, respectively. Our results demonstrated that UVB induced apoptosis in HaCaT and PIG1 cells, whereas inhibition of ROS production could reverse this effect. Furthermore, 4-OI attenuated UVB-induced apoptosis in HaCaT and PIG1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner by reducing the ROS levels. Moreover, 4-OI induced nuclear translocation and activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and Nrf2 silencing reversed the inhibitory effect of 4-OI on the UVB-induced increase in ROS production and apoptosis in HaCaT and PIG1 cells. In addition, in vivo experiments using the Institute of Cancer Research mouse model showed that 4-OI via tail vein injection (10 mg/kg/day for six consecutive days) could reduce skin damage induced by UVB (400 mJ/cm2/day for five consecutive days). In conclusion, 4-OI can protect melanocytes and keratinocytes from UVB-induced apoptosis by Nrf2 activation-dependent ROS inhibition and can potentially treat skin disorders associated with oxidative stress, such as vitiligo.

Formulation and evaluation of pumpkin fruit (Cucurbita maxima L.) emulgel

Abstract Background: The fruit of pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima D.), one of genus Cucurbita, family Cucurbitaceae, has antioxidant activity due to the content of metabolites including amino acids, fatty acids, alpha-tocopherol, beta-tocopherol, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, and beta-sitosterol. The content of carotenoids and tocopherols in pumpkin has antioxidant activity, reduces skin damage due to sun exposure, and can slow down the aging process. Objective: The study aimed to formulate pumpkin fruit emulgel and evaluate its physical stability during storage Method: Emulgel contains pumpkin fruit extracts at a concentration of 0.5 – 1.5% w/v. Emulgel evaluations were organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, spreadability, adhesion, and viscosity at 2 - 8°C, room temperature, and 40 degree Celcius. The stability test observed the physical properties for 28 days. Results: Pumpkin fruit extracts contain flavonoids based on the TLC test. Emulgel showed organoleptic yellow color with pH in the range of 5, homogeneous, adhesion for more than 1 second, dispersion 5 – 7 cm, and viscosity 2000 – 4000 cP. Storage for 28 days did not show a significant difference at all storage temperatures and centrifugation tests. Conclusion Pumpkin fruit emulgel is stable at all storage temperatures 2 – 8 degree Celcius, 28 ± 2 degree Celcius, and 40 ± 2 degree Celcius. Keywords: emulgel, pumpkin, formulation, physical stability

External use of Nano-graphdiyne hydrogel for skin radioprotection via both physically shielding of Low-energy X-ray and chemically scavenging of Broad-spectrum free radicals

Skin radiation damage is one of the most common illnesses in external beam radiotherapy. One of the vital reasons for the damage occurrence is the low-energy X-rays contained in treatment radiations, which are greatly absorbed by skin to cause severe skin injury. Thus, the physical prevention that shields the harmful low-energy X-rays may be an effective skin radioprotective approach. However, at present, the existing commercial skin radioprotective drugs mainly adopt a single chemical repair pathway to eliminate the intracellular toxic free radicals and usually have limited treatment outcomes. Therefore, in order to improve the therapeutic effects of radiodermatitis during radiotherapy, we attempt to design a new drug that possesses dual-mode physical prevention and chemical repair approach to enhance skin radioprotection efficacy. Herein, we for the first time design and synthesize nanosized graphdiyne-loaded sodium hyaluronate hydrogel (nano-GDY@SH hydrogel), which possesses powerful broad-spectrum free radical scavenging activity by the nano-GDY and good low-energy X-ray attenuation ability by the hydrogel with high water content. The experimental results indicated that nano-GDY@SH hydrogel exhibits good biosafety, and can effectively decrease the low-energy X-ray-induced edema and ulcers of skin in mice, mitigate pathological lesion, reduce skin damage time and promote wound recovery.

Edible bird's nest extract downregulates epidermal apoptosis and helps reduce damage by ultraviolet radiation in skin of hairless mice.

The purpose of the present study was to examine whether daily intake of edible bird’s nest extract reduced ultraviolet-induced damage to skin. Twenty-one female HR-1/Hos mice were divided into control (C, n = 7), low-dose (2 mg/kg body weight/day of edible bird’s nest extract) (L, n = 7), and high-dose (20 mg/kg body weight/day of edible bird’s nest extract) (H, n = 7) groups. With their left back skin covered with aluminum sheet to prevent exposure, mice were radiated with either ultraviolet A (20 J/cm2) or ultraviolet B (40 mJ/cm2) in an alternate manner once daily for 10 weeks. They were gavaged either a solution of saline or edible bird’s nest extract every day. The moisture content of the ultraviolet-exposed right back skin was significantly higher in H than in C or L. Histochemical analysis showed that the number of apoptotic epidermal cells on the ultraviolet-exposed skin was significantly lower in L and H than in C. In H, the mRNA expression of superoxide dismutase 2 was significantly higher on ultraviolet-exposed skin than on unexposed skin. Our data suggested that edible bird’s nest extract enhanced superoxide dismutase 2 expression and downregulated apoptosis in their epidermis, which likely helped reduce skin damage.

Topical application of Jatyadi Ghrita and Jatyadi Taila accelerates wound healing in Sprague-Dawley rats: a study in gamma-radiation-induced skin wound model

Purpose Radiation-induced skin wounds/dermatitis can occur due to therapeutic, occupational, or accidental exposure to ionizing radiation. This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of standardized Ayurvedic formulations [Jatyadi ghrita (JG) and Jatyadi taila (JT)] against 60Co-γ-radiation-induced acute skin wounds in rats. Material and methods Animal’s [Sprague-Dawley rats (200 ± 20 g)] flanked skin was locally exposed to 45 Gy radiation (R45Gy) in Cobalt-60-teletherapy unit (Bhabhatron) to generate radiation wounds. JG and JT were applied topically twice daily on wounds from day 14 onwards after appearance of moist desquamation and wound healing efficacy was observed for a period of 42 days. Results R45Gy induced significant time dependent changes in rat’s skin with erythema on day 7 followed by dry and moist desquamation. JG and JT application significantly (p < .001) reduced skin damage score, wound area (92% and 97% respectively on day 42), and bacterial load, when compared with R45Gy and showed better efficacy than sucralfate and betamethasone (positive controls). Formulations significantly reduced lipid peroxidation and enhanced antioxidant defenses, reduced inflammatory infiltrates and collagen fibers deposition as evident by decreased myeloperoxidase and hydroxyproline levels, and also reduced transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) expression. Further, histology revealed reduced epidermal hyperplasia and dermal thinning with improved densities of hair follicles. Formulations were found to be nontoxic on 28 days application. Conclusions The results demonstrated that JG and JT accelerated wound healing in irradiated skin tissue by faster re-epithelialization; reducing inflammation, collagen fibers deposition, and TGF-β1 expression, indicated their potential human application in countering radiation wounds.