Photoprotective potential of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) extract against UV-A irradiation damage on human fibroblasts

Extremophilic Solutions: The Role of Deinoxanthin in Counteracting UV-Induced Skin Harm

This research delved into the protective capacities of deinoxanthin, a carotenoid present in Deinococcus radiodurans, against UVA- and UVB-mediated skin damage using human fibroblast foreskin cells (HFF-1). Using the MTT assay, HFF-1 cells treated with 10 µM DNX displayed 20% and 31.7% higher viability than the positive (Vitamin C-treated) and negative (DNX-untreated) control groups, respectively, upon 100 mJ/cm2 UVB exposure. At 24 J/cm2 UVA, 20 µM DNX-treated cells showed 80.6% viability, exceeding the positive and negative control groups by 28.6% and 33.6%, respectively. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that cells treated with DNX and exposed to 24 J/cm2 UVA exhibited a 69.32% reduction in apoptotic processes compared to untreated cells. Similarly, when exposed to 100 mJ/cm2 UVB, DNX-treated cells demonstrated a 72.35% decrease in apoptotic processes relative to their untreated counterparts. DNX also displayed dose-dependent inhibition on tyrosinase activity. The study emphasized DNX's antioxidative capacity, evident in its modulation of superoxide dismutase activity and measurements of Malondialdehyde and intracellular reactive oxygen species levels. DNX-treated cells exhibited higher hydroxyproline levels, suggesting healthier collagen production. Additionally, the wound-healing assay method confirmed an accelerated healing rate in DNX-treated cells. Conclusively, DNX offers significant protection against UV-induced skin damage, emphasizing its potential for skincare and therapeutics.

Protective effects of volatile components of aged garlic extract against ultraviolet B-induced apoptosis in human skin fibroblasts

Aged garlic extract (AGE) has been shown to protect the skin against UV-induced damage, but effects of its volatile components remain unknown. We investigated the effects of the volatile fraction of AGE on the responses of cultured skin fibroblasts subjected to UV-B irradiation. UV-B irradiation (20 mJ/cm² ) reduced the cell viability to 55% of control. The nonvolatile and volatile fractions of AGE inhibited the UV-B-induced reduction of cell viability; the cell viabilities were 100% and 73%, respectively. The volatile fraction inhibited the UV-B-induced increase in apoptotic cell death by 28%. The volatile fraction also inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) induced by UV-B irradiation. GC-MS analysis revealed that a large number of volatile compounds were generated during aging of garlic. These results suggest that the volatile fraction of AGE has protective effects against the UV-B-induced death of skin fibroblasts, and that this effect may partly be due to an inhibition of apoptosis via the downregulation of MAPK signaling. The volatile compounds of AGE may have beneficial applications for skin health. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In this study, we investigated the effects of AGE against cell damage of UV-B-irradiated human skin fibroblasts. The aging process of garlic produced characteristic volatile compounds that have significant protective effects against UV-induced cell damage. Our results demonstrated that the aging process is a suitable method to develop added value in garlic extracts to improve skin health.

The melanin inhibitory effect of plants and phytochemicals: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Melanin plays an important role in protecting human skin, while excessive synthesis of melanin can cause abnormal pigmentation and induce skin diseases. Long-term use of commercial whitening agents in managing skin melanin such as kojic acid and arbutin can lead to some negative effects such as dermatitis and liver cancer. Although past studies have researched the melanin inhibitory effect of plant extracts, the effective dose and mechanisms are not well summarized and discussed. This study aims to explore the melanin inhibitory property of phytochemicals and tries to answer the following research questions: (1) Which plant extracts and phytochemicals could inhibit melanin biosynthesis in the skin? what is the mechanism of action? (2) Have human trials been conducted to confirm their melanin inhibitory effect? (3) If not, which phytochemicals are recommended for further human trials? This article would provide information for future research to develop natural and safe skin whitening products.

METHODS

A preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) systematic review method and OHAT risk-of-bias tool were applied to screen literature from 2000 to 2021 and 50 research articles met the selection criteria.

RESULTS

Flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and terpenes are main classes of phytochemicals responsible for the melanin inhibitory effects. The in vitro/in vivo melanin inhibitory effects of these plant extracts/phytochemicals are achieved via three main mechanisms: (1) the ethyl acetate extract of Oryza sativa Indica cv., and phytochemicals such as galangin and origanoside could manage melanin biosynthesis through competitive inhibition, non-competitive inhibition or mixed-type inhibition of tyrosinase; (2) phytochemicals such as ginsenoside F1, ginsenoside Rb1 and 4‑hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamaldehyde could inhibit melanogenesis through down-regulating microphthalmia-related transcription factor (MITF) gene expression via different signalling pathways; (3) the ethanolic extracts of Dimorphandra gardneriana, Dimorphandra gardneriana, Lippia microphylla and Schinus terebinthifolius have a good ultraviolet absorption ability and high sun protective factor (SPF) values, thereby inhibiting UV induced melanogenesis in the skin.

CONCLUSION

Although many plant extracts and phytochemicals have been found to inhibit melanin production, most of the results were only proved in cellular and/or animal models. Only the ethyl acetate extract of Oryza sativa Indica cv. panicle, and ginsenoside F1 were proved effective in human trials. Animal studies proved the effectiveness of galangin, origanoside, ginsenoside Rb1 and 4‑hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamaldehyde with effective dose below 3 mM, and therefore recommended for future human trial. In addition, cellular studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of oxyresveratrol, mulberroside A, kurarinol, kuraridinol, plumbagin, (6aR,11aR)-3,8-dihydroxy-9‑methoxy pterocarpan, ginsenoside Rh4, cardamonin, nobiletin, curcumin, β-mangostin and emodin in inhibiting melanin synthesis at low concentrations of 20 µM and proved the low SPF values of Dimorphandra gardneriana, Dimorphandra gardneriana, Lippia microphylla and Schinus terebinthifolius extracts, and therefore recommended for further animal and human trials.

Urolithin A protects human dermal fibroblasts from UVA-induced photoaging through NRF2 activation and mitophagy

Photoaging, caused by exposure to sunlight and especially UVA, has been identified as one of the culprits for age-related skin deterioration. Here, we initially demonstrated that urolithin A (UroA), a metabolite derived from intestine microflora, possessed sufficient photoprotective capacity and attenuated UVA-induced senescent phenotypes in human fibroblasts, such as growth inhibition, senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity, breakdown of extracellular matrix, synthesis of senescence-associated secretory phenotypes and cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, UroA lessened the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species, which promoted the phosphorylation and afterwards nuclear translocation of NRF2, subsequently driving the activation of downstream antioxidative enzymes. In parallel, we proved that UroA restored mitochondrial function by induction of mitophagy, which was regulated by the SIRT3-FOXO3-PINK1-PARKIN network. Taken together, our results showed that UroA protected dermal fibroblast from UVA damage through NRF2/ARE activation and mitophagy process, thus supporting UroA as a potential therapeutic agent for photoaging.

Lansium domesticum-A Fruit with Multi-Benefits: Traditional Uses, Phytochemicals, Nutritional Value, and Bioactivities

Lansium domesticum (Langsat, Meliaceae) is a tropical fruit mainly found in Southeast Asian countries, particularly in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Traditionally, it is utilized as a folk treatment for eye inflammation, ulcers, diarrhea, dysentery, fever, spasms, flatulence, worms, insect bites, scorpion stings, and malaria. Additionally, it is utilized as a mosquito repellent, skin moisturizer and whitening agent. Pharmacological research showed that the plant has a wide array of bioactivities, including antimalarial, antifeedant, anti-aging, wound healing, antioxidant, cytotoxic, analgesic, antibacterial, antimutagenic, insecticidal, and larvicidal. The most commonly described activities were attributed to the presence of terpenoids and phenolics. Further, some studies reported the preparation of nanoparticles and pharmaceutical formulations from the plant. This review highlights the potential of L. domesticum as herbal medicine. It provides an overview about the reported data on L. domesticum from 1931 to November 2021, including nutritional value, traditional uses, phytoconstituents, and bioactivities, as well as nanoparticles and pharmaceutical formulations.

Plants growing in Colombia as sources of active ingredients for sunscreens

INTRODUCTION

Plants can be sources of photoprotective/antigenotoxic compounds that prevent cellular mutations involved in skin cancer and aging by regulating UV-induced mutability.

PURPOSE

The study was aimed at investigating the sunscreen properties of plants growing in Colombia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation-absorption capability of different plant extracts was examined. In vitro photoprotection efficacies were evaluated using in vitro indices such as sun protection factor (SPF_in vitro) and critical wavelength (λc). Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between SPF_in vitro and complementary UVB- antigenotoxicity estimates (%GI) based on the SOS Chromotest database. The cytotoxicity in human fibroblasts was studied using the trypan blue exclusion assay. Major compounds of promising plant extracts were determined by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

RESULTS

We showed that plant extracts have sunscreen properties against UVB, whereas broad-spectrum radiation protection efficacy was poor. SPF_in vitro and %GI were correlated (R = 0.71, p < .0001) for the plant extracts under study. Three extracts obtained from Achyrocline satureioides, Chromolaena pellia, and Lippia origanoides species resulted to possess high protection efficacy and relatively low cytotoxicity in human fibroblasts. These plant extracts contained major compounds such as α-pinene, trans-β-caryophyllene, γ-muurolene, γ-cadinene and caryophyllene oxide in A. Satureioides extract, trans-β-caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, squalene and α-amyrin in C. pellia extract, and p-cymene, carvacrol, trans-β-caryophyllene and pinocembrin in L. origanoides extract.

CONCLUSIONS

Plants growing in Colombia contain compounds that can be useful for potential sunscreens. SPF_in vitro and %GI estimates were correlated, but %GI estimates were more sensitive to detecting activity at lower plant extract concentrations. Our results supported the need to use DNA damage detection assays as a complement to photoprotection efficacy measurement.

The roles of strawberry and honey phytochemicals on human health: A possible clue on the molecular mechanisms involved in the prevention of oxidative stress and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the etiopathogenesis of several human chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome. Besides classic stimuli, such as reactive oxidant species, endotoxins (i.e., bacteria lipopolysaccharide), cytokines or carcinogens, oxidative stress and inflammation can be triggered by a poor diet and an excess of body fat and energy intake. Strawberry and honey are common rich sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds, widely studied for their roles exerted in health maintenance and disease prevention.

PURPOSE

This review aims to summarize and update the effects of strawberry and honey against oxidative stress and inflammation, with emphasis on metabolism and on the main molecular mechanisms involved in these effects.

METHODS

A wide range of literature, published in the last 10 years, elucidating the effects of strawberry and honey in preventing oxidative stress and inflammation both in vitro (whole matrix and digested fractions) and in vivo was collected from online electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science) and reviewed.

RESULTS

Strawberry and honey polyphenols may potentially prevent the chronic diseases related to oxidative stress and inflammation. Several in vitro and in vivo studies reported the effects of these foods in suppressing the oxidative stress, by decreasing ROS production and oxidative biomarkers, restoring the antioxidant enzyme activities, ameliorating the mitochondrial antioxidant status and functionality, among others, and the inflammatory process, by modulating the mediators of acute and chronic inflammation essential for the onset of several human diseases. These beneficial properties are mediated in part through their ability to target multiple signaling pathways, such as p38 MAPK, AMPK, PI3K/Akt, NF-κB and Nrf2.

CONCLUSIONS

Available scientific literature show that strawberry and honey may be effective in preventing oxidative stress and inflammation. The deep evaluation of the factors that affect their metabolism as well as the assessment of the main molecular mechanisms involved are of extreme importance for the possible therapeutic and preventive benefit against the most common human diseases. However, published literature is still scarce so that deeper studies should be performed in order to evaluate the bioavailability of these food matrices and their effects after digestion.

Antioxidant Properties of Plant-Derived Phenolic Compounds and Their Effect on Skin Fibroblast Cells

Plants are rich sources of a diverse range of chemicals, many of which have significant metabolic activity. One large group of secondary compounds are the phenolics, which act as inter alia potent reactive oxygen scavengers in cells, including fibroblasts. These common dermis residue cells play a crucial role in the production of extracellular matrix components, such as collagen, and maintaining the integrity of connective tissue. Chronic wounds or skin exposure to UV-irradiation disrupt fibroblast function by the generation of reactive oxygen species, which may damage cell components and modify various signaling pathways. The resulting imbalance may be reversed by the antioxidant activity of plant-derived phenolic compounds. This paper reviews the current state of knowledge on the impact of phenolics on fibroblast functionality under oxidative stress conditions. It examines a range of compounds in extracts from various species, as well as single specific plant-derived compounds. Phenolics are a good candidate for eliminating the causes of skin damage including wounds and aging and acting as skin care agents.

Anthocyanins, Vibrant Color Pigments, and Their Role in Skin Cancer Prevention

Until today, numerous studies evaluated the topic of anthocyanins and various types of cancer, regarding the anthocyanins' preventative and inhibitory effects, underlying molecular mechanisms, and such. However, there is no targeted review available regarding the anticarcinogenic effects of dietary anthocyanins on skin cancers. If diagnosed at the early stages, the survival rate of skin cancer is quite high. Nevertheless, the metastatic form has a short prognosis. In fact, the incidence of melanoma skin cancer, the type with high mortality, has increased exponentially over the last 30 years, causing the majority of skin cancer deaths. Malignant melanoma is considered a highly destructive type of skin cancer due to its particular capacity to grow and spread faster than any other type of cancers. Plants, in general, have been used in disease treatment for a long time, and medicinal plants are commonly a part of anticancer drugs on the market. Accordingly, this work primarily aims to emphasize the most recent improvements on the anticarcinogenic effects of anthocyanins from different plant sources, with an in-depth emphasis on melanoma skin cancer. We also briefly summarized the anthocyanin chemistry, their rich dietary sources in flowers, fruits, and vegetables, as well as their associated potential health benefits. Additionally, the importance of anthocyanins in topical applications such as their use in cosmetics is also given.

A Review of the Potential Benefits of Plants Producing Berries in Skin Disorders

During the last 30 years, berries have gained great attention as functional food against several risk factors in chronic diseases. The number of related publications on Pubmed rose from 1000 items in 1990 to more than 11,000 in 2019. Despite the fact that a common and clear definition of "berries" is not shared among different scientific areas, the phytochemical pattern of these fruits is mainly characterized by anthocyanins, flavanols, flavonols, and tannins, which showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in humans. Skin insults, like wounds, UV rays, and excessive inflammatory responses, may lead to chronic dermatological disorders, conditions often characterized by long-term treatments. The application of berries for skin protection is sustained by long traditional use, but many observations still require a clear pharmacological validation. This review summarizes the scientific evidence, published on EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Scholar, to identify extraction methods, way of administration, dose, and mechanism of action of berries for potential dermatological treatments. Promising in vitro and in vivo evidence of Punica granatum L. and Vitis vinifera L. supports wound healing and photoprotection, while Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. and Vaccinium spp. showed clear immunomodulatory effects. Oral or topical administrations of these berries justify the evaluation of new translational studies to validate their efficacy in humans.

The ameliorating effects of anthocyanins on the cross-linked signaling pathways of cancer dysregulated metabolism

Cancer cells underlie the dysregulated metabolism of carbohydrate, lipid and protein and thereby, employ interconnected cross-linked signaling pathways to supply adequate energy for growth and related biosynthetic procedures. In the present study, a comprehensive review of cancer metabolism and anthocyanin's effect was conducted using the existing electronic databases, including Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as related articles in the field. Such keywords as "cancer", and "cancer metabolism" in the title/abstract/keyword and all the "anthocyanins" in the whole text were used. Data were collected without time restriction until February 2020. The results indicated the involvement of several signaling pathways, including inflammatory PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, Bax/Bcl-2/caspases as apoptosis modulators, and NF-κB/Nrf2 as oxidative stress mediators in the cancer dysregulated metabolism. Compelling studies have shown that targeting these pathways, as critical hallmarks of cancer, plays a critical role in combating cancer dysregulated metabolism. The complexity of cancer metabolism signaling pathways, along with toxicity, high costs, and resistance to conventional drugs urge the need to investigate novel multi-target agents. Increasing evidence has introduced plant-derived secondary metabolites as hopeful anticancer candidates which target multiple dysregulated cross-linked pathways of cancer metabolism. Amongst these metabolites, anthocyanins have demonstrated positive anticancer effects by targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptotic signaling pathways. The current study revealed the cross-linked signaling pathways of cancer metabolism, as well as the promising pharmacological mechanisms of anthocyanins in targeting the aforementioned signaling mediators. To overcome the pharmacokinetic limitations of anthocyanins in cancer treatment, their interactions with gut microbiota and the need to develop related nano-formulations were also considered.

Ethnopharmacological Applications of Mango (Mangiferaindica L.) Peel - A Review

BACKGROUND

Mango peel is a major by-product of mango (Mangifera Indica L.) fruit that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is a tropical or subtropical fruit and is a potent source of polyphenolic contents. In traditional medicines, mango peel extract has been commonly used, either singly or in combination with other plant extracts against different ailments since ancient times.

METHODS

An electronic database search for accepted articles in Pubmed, Google Scholar, Researchgate, Google, Scopus and Science Direct was used to review the scientific inputs by searching appropriate keywords. Some information was obtained from books and databases on medicinal plants used in different periods.

RESULTS

Numerous reports revealed that mango peel contains a wide spectrum of phytochemical compounds like polyphenolics and flavonoids. A mango peel is a potential source of antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, antibacterial and antiproliferative properties. This review suggests that mango peel could be a potential drug to treat various clinical conditions in the future.

CONCLUSION

In this review, a number of phytochemicals have been summarized for their pharmacological properties and the mechanisms of action, and the possible potential therapeutic applications of mango peel against various diseases are also discussed.

The possible neurobehavioral protective effects of natural antioxidant against phototoxicity attenuation of antimicrobial quinolone group in rats

The fluoroquinolones absorb light in the 320 to 330  nm ultraviolet A (UV-A) wavelength and produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, and hydrogen peroxide; thus, the photodynamic generation of ROS may be the basis of phototoxicity of quinolones in human beings and animals. This study aimed to evaluate the damaging effects of UV-A radiation at different periods of exposure on rats' brains administered with ciprofloxacin. Ciprofloxacin administration in UV-A exposed animals exaggerated the brain-oxidative stress biomarkers and decreased the locomotor activity. Exposure of rats to UV-A for 60 minutes induced a significant increase of malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and a decrease in the values of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) compared to a normal one; these changes were UV-A exposure time-dependent. However, the administration of vitamin C to the UV-60-treated group decreased the values of MDA, MPO, and shifted the values of SOD, GSH toward the normal values. Vitamin C, probably due to its strong antioxidant properties, could improve and partially counteract the toxic effect of UV-A on oxidative stress parameters and prevent the damage in rat's brain tissues.

Photoprotection of maqui berry against ultraviolet B-induced photodamage in vitro and in vivo

Maqui berry extracts could ameliorate oxidative stress, cellular DNA damage, and inflammation induced by UVB-irradiation in vitro and in vivo.

The role and mechanism of Asian medicinal plants in treating skin pigmentary disorders

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chloasma, senile plaques, vitiligo and other pigmentary disorders seriously affect patients' appearance and life quality. Medicinal plant is the product of long-term medical practice worldwide, with the advantages of outstanding curative properties and less side effects. Recently, research were made to explore the value of medicinal plants in the treatment of pigmentary disorders, and remarkable results were achieved.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review outlines the current understanding of the role and potential mechanisms of medicinal plants (including active ingredients, extracts and prescriptions) in pigmentary disorders, especially Chinese medicinal plants, provides the preclinical evidence for the clinical benefits. This study hopes to provide comprehensive information and reliable basis for exploring new therapeutic strategies of plant drugs in the treatment of skin pigmented diseases.

METHODS

The literature information was obtained from the scientific databases (up to Oct, 2017), mainly from the PubMed, Web of Science and CNKI databases, and was to identify the experimental studies on the regulating melanogenesis role of the active agents from herbal medicine and the involved mechanisms. The search keywords for such work included: "pigmentary" or "pigmentation", "melanogenesis", and "traditional Chinese medicine" or "Chinese herbal medicine", "herb", "medicinal plant".

RESULTS

We summarized the function of medicinal plants involved in melanogenesis, especially Chinese medicine. It was reported that the active ingredients, extracts, or prescriptions of medicinal plants can regulate the expression of genes related to melanogenesis by affecting the signaling pathways such as MAPK and PKA, thereby regulating pigment synthesis. Some of them can promote melanogenesis (such as isoliquiritigenin, geniposide; Cornus officinalis Siebold & Zucc., Eclipta prostrata (L.) L.; the Bairesi complex prescription, etc.). While others have the opposite effect (such as biochanin A, Gomisin N; Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Nardostachys chinensis Bat.; Sanbaitang, etc.).

CONCLUSION

Asian medicinal plants, especially their active ingredients, have multilevel effects on melanogenesis by regulating melanogenesis-related genes or signaling pathways. They are of great clinical value for the treatment of skin pigmentary disorders. However, the experimental effect, safety, and functional mechanism of the medicinal plants require further determination before studying their clinical efficacy.

Asiatic Acid Glucosamine Salt Alleviates Ultraviolet B-induced Photoaging of Human Dermal Fibroblasts and Nude Mouse Skin

Herbal extracts including asiatic acid (AA) have become popular candidates of anti-photoaging agents due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and minimal side effect. Nevertheless, low bioavailability due to poor solubility limits their practical application. In this study, a highly bioavailable form of AA called AAGS (compounded by asiatic acid and glucosamine) was investigated for its anti-photoaging effect using both in vitro and in vivo models along with UVB irradiation. The results showed that AAGS alleviated UVB-induced cell proliferation inhibition by reducing G2 phase arrest and cell apoptosis rate as well as the gene expressions of P53, BAX, CASPASE 3 and CASPASE 9, but enhancing BCL-2 expression. It also reduced the production of reactive oxygen species along with increased gene expression of GPX-1 and downregulated the gene expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17 and TNF-α compared to nontreated cells. In vivo results demonstrated the antiphotodamaging effects by restoring skin thickness, collagen content and reducing MMPs expression, which are also supported by reduced MMPs gene expression and enhanced collagen I and TGF-β1 gene expression in vitro. Thus, AAGS may become a potential anti-photoaging agent for topical use due to its capability of self-assembling into a water gel.

Strawberry Intake Ameliorates Oxidative Stress and Decreases GABA Levels Induced by High-Fat Diet in Frontal Cortex of Rats

It has been proposed that there is a correlation between high-fat diet (HFD), oxidative stress and decreased γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, but this has not been thoroughly demonstrated. In the present study, we determined the effects of strawberry extract intake on the oxidative stress and GABA levels in the frontal cortex (FC) of obese rats. We observed that an HFD increased lipid and protein oxidation, and decreased GABA levels. Moreover, UV-irradiated strawberry extract (UViSE) decreased lipid peroxidation but not protein oxidation, whereas non-irradiated strawberry extract (NSE) reduced protein oxidation but not lipid peroxidation. Interestingly, NSE increased GABA concentration, whereas UViSE was not as effective. In conclusion, our results suggest that an HFD increases oxidative damage in the FC, whereas strawberry extract intake may ameliorate the disturbances associated with HFD-induced oxidative damage.

Antioxidative and antiphotoaging activities of neferine upon UV-A irradiation in human dermal fibroblasts

Our daily exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) results in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipids, proteins and DNA damage and alteration in fibroblast structure, thus contributing to skin photoaging. For this reason, the use of natural bioactive compounds with antioxidant activity could be a strategic tool to overcome ultraviolet A (UV-A) induced deleterious effect. Neferine is an alkaloid extract from the seed embryos of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn). In the present study, we report the protective effect of neferine against UV-A induced oxidative stress and photoaging in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). HDFs subjected to UV-A irradiation showed increased production of ROS and malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, it depleted the cellular enzymatic antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) and non-enzymatic antioxidant glutathione peroxidase (GPx). On the other hand, HDFs treated with neferine followed by UV-A irradiation reversed the process, reduced the ROS and lipid peroxidation and restored the antioxidants pool. Moreover, neferine treatment significantly inhibited UV-A induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression in HDFs. Remarkable morphological and ultrastructural alterations observed in HDFs upon UV-A irradiation, were also reduced with neferine treatment. Taken together, our results suggest that neferine has strong antioxidative and photoprotective properties and thus may be a potential agent for the prevention and treatment of UV-A mediated skin photoaging.

Synergistic Promotion on Tyrosinase Inhibition by Antioxidants

When exposed to ultraviolet radiation, the human skin produces profuse reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in turn activate a variety of biological responses. Mounting ROS levels activate tyrosinase by mobilizing α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in the epidermis and finally stimulates the melanocytes to produce melanin. Meanwhile, the Keap1-Nrf2/ARE pathway, which removes ROS, is activated at increased ROS levels, and antioxidant compounds facilitates the dissociation of Nrf2. In this study, we explored the possible suppressing effects of antioxidant compounds and tyrosine inhibitors on melanin formation and the promotory effects of these compounds on ROS scavenging. The antioxidant activity of glabridin (GLA), resveratrol (RES), oxyresveratrol (OXYR), and phenylethylresorcinol (PR) were investigated via the stable free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method. The inhibitory effects of the four compounds and their mixtures on tyrosinase were evaluated. l-Tyrosine or 3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-l-alanine (l-DOPA) was used as a substrate. The results showed that all mixtures did not exhibit synergistic effects with the l-tyrosine as a substrate, suggesting that l-tyrosine is not suitable as a substrate. However, the mixtures of “GLA:RES,” “GLA:OXYR,” “OXYR:RES,” and “PR:RES” demonstrated synergistic effects (CI < 0.9, p < 0.05), whereas “GLA:RES” and “PR:OXYR” indicated an additive effect (0.9 ditive1, p < 0.05). Furthermore, we used a molecular docking strategy to study the interactions of the four compounds with tyrosinase and l-DOPA. The molecular docking result is consistent with that of the experiment. Finally, we selected RES + OXYR and used PIG1 cells to verify whether OXYR synergistically promotes RES activity on tyrosinase. The two agents had a synergistic inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity. These results provided a novel synergistic strategy for antioxidants and tyrosinase inhibitors, and this strategy is useful in skin injury treatment.

A Review on Ethnopharmacological Applications, Pharmacological Activities, and Bioactive Compounds of Mangifera indica (Mango)

Mangifera indica (family Anacardiaceae), commonly known as mango, is a pharmacologically, ethnomedically, and phytochemically diverse plant. Various parts of M. indica tree have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of different ailments, and a number of bioactive phytochemical constituents of M. indica have been reported, namely, polyphenols, terpenes, sterols, carotenoids, vitamins, and amino acids, and so forth. Several studies have proven the pharmacological potential of different parts of mango trees such as leaves, bark, fruit peel and flesh, roots, and flowers as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anthelmintic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antiplasmodial, and antihyperlipemic. In the present review, a comprehensive study on ethnopharmacological applications, pharmacological activities, and bioactive compounds of M. indica has been described.

Fisetin Regulates Nrf2 Expression and the Inflammation-Related Signaling Pathway to Prevent UVB-Induced Skin Damage in Hairless Mice

Chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure may cause skin damage, disrupt skin barrier function, and promote wrinkle formation. UV induces oxidative stress and inflammation, which results in extracellular matrix degradation in the dermis and epidermal hyperplasia. Our previous study demonstrated that fisetin exerts photoprotective activity by inhibiting mitogen-activated protein kinase/activator protein-1/matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activation. In this study, fisetin was applied topically to investigate its antiphotodamage effects in hairless mice. The erythema index (a* values) and transepidermal water loss were evaluated to assess skin damage, and immunohistochemical staining was conducted to elucidate the photoprotective mechanism of fisetin. The results revealed that the topical application of fisetin reduced UVB-induced increase in the a* value and wrinkle formation. In addition, fisetin inhibited epidermal hyperplasia and increased the collagen content in the dermis. Fisetin exerted photoprotective activity by inhibiting the expression of MMP-1, MMP-2, and cyclooxygenase-2 and increasing the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor. Furthermore, fisetin increased the expression of filaggrin to prevent UVB-induced barrier function disruption. Altogether, the present results provide evidence of the effects and mechanisms of fisetin's antiphotodamage and antiphotoinflammation activities.

Strawberry-Based Cosmetic Formulations Protect Human Dermal Fibroblasts against UVA-Induced Damage

Extreme exposure of skin to Ultraviolet A (UVA)-radiation may induce a dysregulated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which can interact with cellular biomolecules leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and alteration of cellular molecular pathways, responsible for skin photoaging, hyperplasia, erythema, and cancer. For these reasons, the use of dietary natural bioactive compounds with remarkable antioxidant activity could be a strategic tool to counteract these UVA-radiation-caused deleterious effects. Thus, the purpose of the present work was to test the efficacy of strawberry (50 μg/mL)-based formulations supplemented with Coenzyme Q₁₀ (100 μg/mL) and sun protection factor 10 in human dermal fibroblasts irradiated with UVA-radiation. The apoptosis rate, the amount of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, the expression of proteins involved in antioxidant and inflammatory response, and mitochondrial functionality were evaluated. The results showed that the synergic topical use of strawberry and Coenzyme Q₁₀ provided a significant (p < 0.05) photoprotective effect, reducing cell death and ROS, increasing antioxidant defense, lowering inflammatory markers, and improving mitochondrial functionality. The obtained results suggest the use of strawberry-based formulations as an innovative, natural, and useful tool for the prevention of UVA exposure-induced skin diseases in order to decrease or substitute the amount of synthetic sunscreen agents.

Alleviation of Ultraviolet B-Induced Photodamage by Coffea arabica Extract in Human Skin Fibroblasts and Hairless Mouse Skin

Coffea arabica extract (CAE) containing 48.3 ± 0.4 mg/g of chlorogenic acid and a trace amount of caffeic acid was found to alleviate photoaging activity in human skin fibroblasts. In this study, polyphenol-rich CAE was investigated for its antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties, as well as for its capability to alleviate ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced photodamage in BALB/c hairless mice. The results indicated that 500 μg/mL of CAE exhibited a reducing power of 94.7%, ferrous ion chelating activity of 46.4%, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity of 20.3%. The CAE dose dependently reduced UVB-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in fibroblasts. Furthermore, CAE inhibited the UVB-induced expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and p-inhibitor κB, and the translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) to the nucleus of fibroblasts. In addition, CAE alleviated UVB-induced photoaging and photodamage in BALB/c hairless mice by restoring the collagen content and reduced UVB-induced epidermal hyperplasia. CAE also inhibited UVB-induced NF-κB, interleukin-6, and matrix metalloproteinase-1 expression in the hairless mouse skin. The results indicated that CAE exhibits antiphotodamage activity by inhibiting UV-induced oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, CAE is a candidate for use in antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiphotodamage products.

The Healthy Effects of Strawberry Polyphenols: Which Strategy behind Antioxidant Capacity?

Current evidence indicates that the consumption of strawberries, a natural source of a wide range of nutritive and bioactive compounds, is associated with the prevention and improvement of chronic-degenerative diseases. Studies involving cells and animals provide evidence on the anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and antiproliferative activity of the strawberry. Epidemiological and clinical studies demonstrate that its acute consumption increases plasma antioxidant capacity, improves circulating inflammatory markers and ameliorates postprandial glycemic response. At the same time, a protracted intake reduces chronic inflammation and improves plasma lipid profile, supporting cardiovascular health, especially in individuals with increased risk for metabolic syndrome. To explain these beneficial effects, much attention has been paid in the past to the antioxidant properties of strawberry polyphenols. However, recent research has shown that their biological and functional activities are related not only to the antioxidant capacity but also to the modulation of many cellular pathways involved in metabolism, survival, proliferation, and antioxidant defenses. The aim of this review is to update and discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms proposed in recent studies to elucidate the healthy effects of strawberry polyphenols against the most common chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and inflammation.

Protective effect of Fragaria ananassa methanolic extract on cadmium chloride (CdCl2)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

This study investigated the protective effect of Fragaria ananassa methanolic extract on cadmium chloride (CdCl₂)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. CdCl₂ was intraperitoneally injected at a dose of 6.5 mg/kg of body weight for 5 d with or without methanol extract of Fragaria ananassa (250 mg/kg). The hepatic cadmium concentration, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, glutathione (GSH) content, and antioxidant enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT), GSH peroxidase, and GSH reductase, were estimated. CdCl₂ injection induced a significant elevation in cadmium concentration, lipid peroxidation, and nitric oxide and caused a significant depletion in GSH content compared to controls, along with a remarkable decrease in antioxidant enzymes. Oxidative stress induction and cadmium accumulation in the liver were successfully ameliorated by F. ananassa (strawberry) pre-administration. In addition, the pre-administration of strawberry decreased the elevated gene expression of the pro-apoptotic Bax gene as well as the protein expression of caspases-3 in the liver of CdCl₂-injected rats. In addition, the reduced gene expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 was increased. Our results show an increase in the expression of tumor necrosis factor α in the liver of rats treated with cadmium. In sum, our results suggested that F. ananassa successfully prevented deleterious effects on liver function by reinforcing the antioxidant defense system, inhibiting oxidative stress and reducing apoptosis.

The influence of feeding purple wheat with higher content of anthocyanins on antioxidant status and selected enzyme activity of animals

The influence of anthocyanins on antioxidant activity and liver function was measured in three different animal species (rats, chickens and fish). Purple Konini wheat with the total anthocyanin content (TAC) of 41.70 mg/kg was fed to the experimental groups of animals (rats n = 32; chickens n = 32; fish n = 20). The same numbers of animals (control groups) were fed common wheat with TAC of 24.95 mg/kg. At the end of the experiment, the animals were killed and blood and liver tissues were taken for biochemical analyses. The liver enzyme activities were measured in blood. Antioxidant activity in the liver tissue was measured using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl test), FR (Free Radicals method), FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power method), and ABTS (2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) test. Significantly higher values (P< 0.05) measured by the DPPH and FR methods were determined in the liver from rats fed Konini wheat. The chickens fed Konini wheat showed significantly different values using DPPH, FR and ABTS methods. No significant differences were found in hepatopancreases of fish. Animals fed Konini wheat showed a tendency to lower liver enzyme activities in general, but a significant difference was found only in gamma-glutamyl transferase activity in the chicken’s blood. Our results suggest that feeding a higher content of anthocyanins can improve the antioxidant activity and function of the liver tissue.

Anti-inflammatory effect of strawberry extract against LPS-induced stress in RAW 264.7 macrophages

A common denominator in the pathogenesis of most chronic inflammatory diseases is the involvement of oxidative stress, related to ROS production by all aerobic organisms. Dietary antioxidants from plant foods represent an efficient strategy to counteract this condition. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the protective effects of strawberry extracts on inflammatory status induced by E. Coli LPS on RAW 264.7 macrophages by measuring the main oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers and investigating the molecular pathways involved. Strawberry pre-treatment efficiently counteracted LPS-induced oxidative stress reducing the amount of ROS and nitrite production, stimulating endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities and enhancing protection against lipid, protein and DNA damage (P < 0.05). Strawberry pre-treatment exerted these protective effects primarily through the activation of the Nrf2 pathway, which is markedly AMPK-dependent and also by the modulation of the NF-kB signalling pathway. Finally, an improvement in mitochondria functionality was also detected. The results obtained in this work highlight the health benefit of strawberries against inflammatory and oxidative stress in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, investigating for the first time the possible involved molecular mechanisms.

Protective Effect of Strawberry Extract against Inflammatory Stress Induced in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

A protracted pro-inflammatory state is a major contributing factor in the development, progression and complication of the most common chronic pathologies. Fruit and vegetables represent the main sources of dietary antioxidants and their consumption can be considered an efficient tool to counteract inflammatory states. In this context an evaluation of the protective effects of strawberry extracts on inflammatory stress induced by E. coli LPS on human dermal fibroblast cells was performed in terms of viability assays, ROS and nitrite production and biomarkers of oxidative damage of the main biological macromolecules. The results demonstrated that strawberry extracts exerted an anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-treated cells, through an increase in cell viability, and the reduction of ROS and nitrite levels, and lipid, protein and DNA damage. This work showed for the first time the potential health benefits of strawberry extract against inflammatory and oxidative stress in LPS-treated human dermal fibroblast cells.

The SOS Chromotest applied for screening plant antigenotoxic agents against ultraviolet radiation

We proposed the SOS Chromotest for bioprospecting of plant genoprotective agents against UV-induced genotoxicity. The Colombian flora resulted to be a source of antigenotoxic compounds against UV.

Polyphenols and DNA Damage: A Mixed Blessing

Polyphenols are a very broad group of chemicals, widely distributed in plant foods, and endowed with antioxidant activity by virtue of their numerous phenol groups. They are widely studied as putative cancer-protective agents, potentially contributing to the cancer preventive properties of fruits and vegetables. We review recent publications relating to human trials, animal experiments and cell culture, grouping them according to whether polyphenols are investigated in whole foods and drinks, in plant extracts, or as individual compounds. A variety of assays are in use to study genetic damage endpoints. Human trials, of which there are rather few, tend to show decreases in endogenous DNA damage and protection against DNA damage induced ex vivo in blood cells. Most animal experiments have investigated the effects of polyphenols (often at high doses) in combination with known DNA-damaging agents, and generally they show protection. High concentrations can themselves induce DNA damage, as demonstrated in numerous cell culture experiments; low concentrations, on the other hand, tend to decrease DNA damage.

Promising Health Benefits of the Strawberry: A Focus on Clinical Studies

The potential health benefits associated with dietary intake of fruits have attracted increasing interest. Among berries, the strawberry is a rich source of several nutritive and non-nutritive bioactive compounds, which are implicated in various health-promoting and disease preventive effects. A plethora of studies have examined the benefits of strawberry consumption, such as prevention of inflammation disorders and oxidative stress, reduction of obesity related disorders and heart disease risk, and protection against various types of cancer. This review provides an overview of their nutritional and non-nutritional bioactive compounds and which factors affect their content in strawberries. In addition, the bioavailability and metabolism of major strawberry phytochemicals as well as their actions in combating many pathologies, including cancer, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, neurodegeneration, along with microbial pathogenesis have been reviewed, with a particular attention to human studies.

Strawberry consumption alleviates doxorubicin-induced toxicity by suppressing oxidative stress

Doxorubicin (Dox), one of the most used chemotherapeutic agents, is known to generate oxidative stress and block DNA synthesis, which result in severe dose-limiting toxicity. A strategy to protect against Dox toxic effects could be to use dietary antioxidants of which fruits and vegetable are a rich source. In this context, strawberry consumption is associated with the maintenance of good health and the prevention of several diseases, thanks to the antioxidant capacities of its bioactive compounds. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the protective effects of strawberry consumption against oxidative stress induced by Dox in rats. Animals were fed with strawberry enriched diet (15% of the total calories) for two months and Dox (10 mg/kg; i.p.) was injected at the end of the experimental period. Strawberry consumption significantly inhibited ROS production and oxidative damage biomarkers accumulation in plasma and liver tissue and alleviated histopathological changes in rat livers treated with Dox. The reduction of antioxidant enzyme activities was significantly mitigated after strawberry consumption. In addition, strawberry enriched diet ameliorated liver mitochondrial antioxidant levels and functionality. In conclusion, strawberry intake protects against Dox-induced toxicity, at plasma, liver and mitochondrial levels thanks to its high contents of bioactive compounds.

Identification and characterization of DcUCGalT1, a galactosyltransferase responsible for anthocyanin galactosylation in purple carrot (Daucus carota L.) taproots

Purple carrots (Daucus carota ssp. sativus var. atrorubens Alef.) accumulate large amounts of cyanidin-based anthocyanins in their taproots. Cyanidin can be glycosylated with galactose, xylose, and glucose in sequence by glycosyltransferases resulting in cyanidin 3-xylosyl (glucosyl) galactosides in purple carrots. The first step in the glycosylation of cyanidin is catalysis by UDP-galactose: cyanidin galactosyltransferase (UCGalT) transferring the galactosyl moiety from UDP-galactose to cyanidin. In the present study, a gene from 'Deep purple' carrot, DcUCGalT1, was cloned and heterologously expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3). The recombinant DcUCGalT1 galactosylated cyanidin to produce cyanidin-3-O-galactoside and showed optimal activity for cyanidin at 30 °C and pH 8.6. It showed lower galactosylation activity for peonidin, pelargonidin, kaempferol and quercetin. It accepted only UDP-galactose as a glycosyl donor when cyanidin was used as an aglycone. The expression level of DcUCGalT1 was positively correlated with anthocyanin biosynthesis in carrots. The enzyme extractions from 'Deep purple' exhibited galactosylation activity for cyanidin, peonidin and pelargonidin, while those from 'Kuroda' (a non-purple cultivar) did not.

The genetic aspects of berries: from field to health

Berries are a relevant source of micronutrients and nonessential phytochemicals, such as polyphenol compounds, that play a synergistic and cumulative role in human health promotion. Several systematic analyses showed that berry phenolics are able to detoxify reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, blocking their production, to intervene in the cell cycle, participating in the transduction and expression of genes involved in apoptosis, and to repair oxidative DNA damage. As a consequence, the improvement of the nutritional quality of berries has become a new quality target of breeding and biotechnological strategies, to control or to increase the content of specific health-related compounds in fruits. This work reviews, on the basis of the in vitro and in vivo evidence, the main berries' phytochemical compounds and their possible mechanisms of action on pathways involved in several type of diseases, with particular attention to cancer, inflammation, neurodegeneration, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Biochemical Characterization of Dovyalis hebecarpa Fruits: A Source of Anthocyanins with High Antioxidant Capacity

Dovyalis hebecarpa, which is also known as the Ceylon gooseberry, is an attractive exotic purple berry that is produced in the southwest of Brazil with high yields. Current literature lacks information about the nutritional composition and antioxidant capacity of this fruit. As such, this work aimed to evaluate and compare the proximate composition, phytochemical content, and antioxidant capacity of D. hebecarpa over two seasons through the application of a range of different methods, including FRAP, ABTS, and ORAC assays. The proximate composition and biometric parameters were monitored for quality purposes. The results significantly changed between seasons in accordance with variations in rain incidence and average temperatures. The Ceylon gooseberry contained a similar or higher content of anthocyanins (ACY) than other berries commonly consumed in human diet. These ACY were identified at higher levels in the fruit's skin (284 to 351 mg of cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents/100 g of fresh weight [FW]) than in its pulp (49 to 69 mg/100 g of FW). The use of an ORAC assay identified higher antioxidant activity (145 μmol of Trolox equivalents [TE]/g in the skins and 179 μmol of TE/g in the pulp on a FW basis) than all other methods used to determine antioxidant activity. Thus, D. hebecarpa is a rich source of ACY that demonstrates high antioxidant activity against the peroxyl radicals formed in ORAC assay conditions.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Ceylon gooseberry fruit is a source of phytochemicals that could be used in the human diet providing defense against free radicals damage. Moreover, the skins of the fruit, which are not typically consumed, contained higher levels of polyphenols than the pulp. This indicates that the skins of the Ceylon gooseberry may represent a promising source of natural pigments and antioxidants for industrial applications.

A Pilot Study of the Photoprotective Effects of Strawberry-Based Cosmetic Formulations on Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Strawberry polyphenols have been extensively studied over the last two decades for their beneficial properties. Recently, their possible use in ameliorating skin conditions has also been proposed; however, their role in preventing UVA-induced damage in cosmetic formulation has not yet been investigated. Skin is constantly exposed to several environmental stressors, such as UVA radiation, that induce oxidative stress, inflammation and cell death via the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In the present study, we assessed the potential photoprotective capacity of different strawberry-based formulations, enriched with nanoparticles of Coenzyme Q₁₀ and with sun protection factor 10 (SPF10), in human dermal fibroblasts (HuDe) exposed to UVA radiation. We confirmed that strawberries are a very rich source of polyphenols, anthocyanins and vitamins, and possess high total antioxidant capacity. We also showed that strawberry extracts (25 μg/mL–1 mg/mL) exert a noticeable photoprotection in HuDe, increasing cell viability in a dose-dependent way, and that these effects are potentiated by the presence of CoQ_10red (100 μg/mL). We have demonstrated for the first time that the topical use of strawberry extract may provide good photoprotection, even if more in-depth studies are strongly encouraged in order to evaluate the cellular and molecular effects of strawberry protection.