Preventive and Therapeutic Benefits of Natural Ingredients in Photo-Induced Epidermal Dysfunction

BACKGROUND

The skin, particularly the epidermis, is subjected to various external stresses, including ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. UV irradiation, mainly UVB at wavelength of 280-315 nm, can alter several epidermal functions, including cutaneous inflammation, epidermal hyperproliferation, DNA damage, disruption of epidermal permeability barrier and reduction in stratum corneum hydration levels. Because of the negative impacts of UVB irradiation on epidermal functions, great efforts have been made to develop regimens for the protection of alterations in epidermal function induced by UV irradiation.

SUMMARY

While sunscreen can provide physical barrier to UV light, some natural ingredients can also effectively protect the skin from UVB irradiation-induced damages. Studies have demonstrated that either topical or oral administrations of some natural ingredients attenuate UVB irradiation-induced alterations in the epidermal function. The underlying mechanisms by which natural ingredients improve epidermal functions are attributable to antioxidation, stimulation of keratinocyte differentiation, increases in the content of epidermal natural moisturizers and inhibition of inflammation.

KEY MESSAGE

Some natural ingredients exhibit protective and therapeutical benefits in photo-induced epidermal dysfunctions via divergent mechanisms.

Mechanistic role and potential of Ayurvedic herbs as anti-aging therapies

INTRODUCTION

Medicinal plants and herbs are the most important part of the Ayurveda. The term Rasayana in Charaka Samhita confers long life, youthfulness, strong body, freedom from diseases and the plants mentioned in Rsayana possess antiaging property. Aging is the collective term used for the complex detrimental physiological changes that reduce the functional ability of the cell. Oxidative stress, telomeres shortening, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction are the main factors that regulate the aging process. Chronological aging is an irreversible process but the factors causing biological aging can be controlled. Ayurvedic herbs are better for the management of age-related problems. There are several natural bioactive agents present in plants that can delay the aging process in humans. They trigger actions like enhancing gene longevity and telomerase activity, ROS scavenging furthermore regeneration of tissues.

CONTENT

The plants mentioned in the Rasayana of Ayurveda have antiaging potential and can be used to solve modern problems related to aging. Some Ayurvedic plants and their antiaging potential has explained in this review. The main causes of aging, medicinal plants and their use as potential antiaging mediator are covered in this study.

SUMMARY

The process of aging is still an enigma. It is a complex, irretrievable, dynamic process that involves a number of factors and is subject to a number of environmental and genetic influences. Rasayana aspect has not been much investigated in clinical trials. Aging is considered to result from free radical damage. According to Charaka, Rasayana drugs open the partially or fully blocked channels. Many Rasayanas show free radical scavenging activity and has the potential to mitigate the effects of aging. It gives an overview of the significance of Ayurvedic medicinal plants as a source of inspiration and the use of these plants as remedies for antiaging.

OUTLOOK

This study briefly outlooks the causes of aging and how medicinal plants can be used to reverse the aging process. In this study, we discussed the antiaging potential and mechanistic roles of Ayurvedic herbs. These herbs have the properties to slow down the natural process of aging and can successfully manage common age-related problems.

Korean Red Ginseng Attenuates Particulate Matter-Induced Senescence of Skin Keratinocytes

Skin is a direct target of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), as it is constantly exposed. Herein, we investigate whether Korean red ginseng (KRG) can inhibit PM2.5-induced senescence in skin keratinocytes. PM2.5-treated human keratinocyte cell lines and normal human epidermal keratinocytes showed characteristics of cellular senescence, including flat and enlarged forms; however, KRG suppressed them in both cell types. Moreover, while cells exposed to PM2.5 showed a higher level of p16INK4A expression (a senescence inducer), KRG inhibited its expression. Epigenetically, KRG decreased the expression of the ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzyme, a DNA demethylase induced by PM2.5, and increased the expression of DNA methyltransferases suppressed by PM2.5, resulting in the decreased methylation of the p16INK4A promoter region. Additionally, KRG decreased the expression of mixed-lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1), a histone methyltransferase, and histone acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1) induced by PM2.5. Contrastingly, KRG increased the expression of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2, a histone methyltransferase, and histone deacetyltransferase 1 reduced by PM2.5. Furthermore, KRG decreased TET1, MLL1, and HAT1 binding to the p16INK4A promoter, corresponding with the decreased mRNA expression of p16INK4A. These results suggest that KRG exerts protection against the PM2.5-induced senescence of skin keratinocytes via the epigenetic regulation of p16INK4A.

Antioxidant activity of mycelia methanolic extracts of endophytic fungi BvFV and BvFIX isolated from leaves of Bauhinia variegata

Endophytes are considered an essential source of natural products. Skin is the body's largest organ; its primary function is the protection of other organs, and aging is one of the most relevant problems associated with this organ. UV radiation generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which lead to skin degeneration and consequent aging. The main endogenous antioxidants that neutralize ROS are enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase, and non-enzymatic antioxidants, such as glutathione and α-tocopherol. Nuclear receptors are involved in molecular mechanisms that control the aging process, especially peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR), which regulate the function and expression of genes that modulate the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) activity and the expression of collagen. Some natural compounds, such as polyphenols, can activate PPAR and reduce the activation of MMP and collagen degradation. In this work, the antioxidant activity of the mycelia methanolic extracts of two endophytic fungi isolated from leaves of Bauhinia variegata, named BvFV and BvFIX, their action as PPAR agonists, and their effect on the activity of antioxidant defense system enzymes were evaluated. The mycelia methanolic extract of BvFV showed a weak agonist effect on PPARβ/δ, a high capability to inhibit lipid peroxidation, increased catalase activity, and increased superoxide dismutase activity by approximately 64%. In contrast, BvFIX increased catalase activity and increased superoxide dismutase activity in a dose-dependent manner, with an increase of 49.62% ± 7.87%, 56.64% ± 12.27%, and 240.46% ± 26.11% at concentrations of 25 µg/mL, 50 µg/mL and 100 µg/mL, respectively, in human dermal fibroblasts submitted to oxidative stress. These results suggest that the metabolites of the mycelia of endophytic fungi studied are promising to act in the chemoprevention of skin aging.

Insights into health promoting effects and myochemical profiles of pine mushroom Tricholoma matsutake

Tricholoma matsutake (TM) is a valuable edible mushroom that has attracted increasing attention due to its potential medicinal values and functional uses. However, the chemical composition and molecular mechanisms behinds TM are not specifically summarized yet. Hence, this review aims to systematically analyze the research progress on the characterization of chemical compositions and the reported health effects of TM in the last 20 years. The myochemical profiles of TM consist of proteins with amino acids, fatty acids, nucleic acids with their derivatives, polysaccharides, minerals, volatile components, phenolic compounds, and steroids. The bioactive substances in TM exert their health effects mainly by regulating body immunity and restoring the balance of the redox system. NF-κB signaling pathway and its downstream cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 are the key molecular mechanisms. In addition, MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and JAK-STAT are also involved. NF-κB, MAPK, and PI3K-Akt are also highly related to cancer regulation and thus TM has great anticancer potential. Considering that most studies have only investigated the dosage and inhibition rate of TM on cancer cell lines, more extensive studies need to focus on the specific molecular mechanisms behind these anticancer effects in the future.

Bibliometric analysis of the effects of ginseng on skin

OBJECTIVE

Ginseng is widely used in cosmetics and skin care. The progress of research on the effect of ginseng on the skin was explored through a summary and analysis of skin-related studies on ginseng conducted over in the past 20 years, and this exploration aimed to elucidate new research opportunities with regard to the development and application of ginseng treatments for the skin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Keywords were used to retrieve human studies related to the use of ginseng to treat skin conditions from the Web of Science. Scientometric analyses were performed in R to analyze the studies on the human skin-related effects of ginseng conducted from 2000 to 2019.

RESULTS

The main active ingredient in ginseng is ginsenoside, and its effects on the skin are mostly anti-aging and whitening. Ginseng extract regulates the levels of matrix metalloproteinases in human fibroblast type I collagen to improve the elasticity and water content of skin. In addition, ginseng inhibits the transcription factors or signaling pathways involved in the formation of melanin, it exerts a whitening effect. The authors of the retrieved studies are mostly located in Asia, mainly South Korea and China. Wang Y, Kim JH, and Kim YJ are relatively influential scholars, these ginseng-related articles published in the Journal of Ginseng Research, Molecules and other journals are very important in this field.

CONCLUSION

This study shows the development of trends in research on ginseng as a raw cosmetic material used on the skin and thus enables researchers to rapidly understand the key information in the field of ginseng research, comprehend the research directions, and improve their research efficiency.

Comparison of Single and Combined Use of Ergothioneine, Ferulic Acid, and Glutathione as Antioxidants for the Prevention of Ultraviolet B Radiation-Induced Photoaging Damage in Human Skin Fibroblasts

Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation can cause human skin damage or skin aging and wrinkle formation through photochemical reactions. Antioxidative substances may ameliorate UV damage. In this study, the anti-photoaging activity of three antioxidants—ergothioneine, ferulic acid, and glutathione—was investigated after UVB irradiation of Hs68 human skin fibroblast cells. The cells treated with these three antioxidants appeared similar to unirradiated control cells. UVB irradiation decreased cell viability by 26% compared to that of unirradiated control cells. However, the addition of either single or combined antioxidants enhanced cell viability after UVB irradiation. These three antioxidants can inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by the UVB irradiation of the Hs68 cells. Ergothioneine showed a greater inhibitory effect on matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) performance than the other two antioxidants. IL-1 alpha was not detected in the Hs68 cells after exposure to a radiation dose of 150 mJ/cm2. Ergothioneine showed better restoration of type 1 procollagen than either ferulic acid or glutathione. Based on these results, the addition of two antioxidants was expected to restore type Ι procollagen production. In summary, these results demonstrate that the three tested antioxidants protect the skin against UVB-induced damage. The single and combined use of ergothioneine, ferulic acid, and glutathione has the potential for development as anti-photoaging materials in cosmetic applications.

Transdermal nanotherapeutics: Panax quinquefolium polysaccharide nanoparticles attenuate UVB-induced skin cancer

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is known to cause an imbalance of the endogenous antioxidant system leading to an increase in skin cancer. Panax quinquefolium (American ginseng) polysaccharides (GPS) can inhibit such an imbalance due to its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of topical formulations containing GPS nanoparticles (NPs) to inhibit UVB induced oxidative damage and skin cancer. Photoaging was conducted under UVB irradiation with a dose of 300 mJ/cm2 on SKH1 hairless mice. The treatment groups (n = 5) were as follows: sham control, native GPS, GPS NPs and fluorescent labeled GPS NPs. To compare the photoprotective performance, the topical formulations were applied before and after UVB induction (pre-treatment and post-treatment), followed by sacrificing the animals. Then, skin and blood samples were collected, and inflammatory cytokines production was measured using ELISA. Compared to the sham control, GPS NPs pre-treated mice skin and blood samples exhibited a significant lowering in all cytokine production. In addition, skin histology analysis showed that pre-treatment of GPS NPs prevented epidermal damage and proliferation. The results support that topical formulation containing GPS NPs can inhibit UVB induced oxidative damage and skin cancer.

Therapeutic Effects of Dipterocarpus tuberculatus with High Antioxidative Activity Against UV-Induced Photoaging of NHDF Cells and Nude Mice

To investigate the therapeutic effects of methanol extracts of Dipterocarpus tuberculatus Roxb. (MED) against UV-induced photoaging, we assessed for alterations in the antioxidant activity, anti-apoptotic effects, ECM modulation, skin appearances, and anti-inflammatory response in normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells and nude mice orally treated with MED. High levels of tannin content and high free radical scavenging activity to DPPH were determined in MED, while seven active components, namely, gallic acid, bergenin, ellagic acid, ε-viniferin, asiatic acid, oleanolic acid, and 2α-hydroxyursolic acid, were identified using LC–MS analyses. UV-induced alterations in the NO concentration, SOD activity, and Nrf2 expression were remarkably recovered in MED-treated NHDF cells. Moreover, the decreased number of apoptotic cells and G2/M phase arrest were observed in the UV + MED-treated groups. Similar recoveries were detected for β-galactosidase, MMP-2/9 expression, and intracellular elastase activity. Furthermore, MED treatment induced suppression of the COX-2-induced iNOS mediated pathway, expression of inflammatory cytokines, and inflammasome activation in UV-radiated NHDF cells. The anti-photoaging effects observed in NHDF cells were subsequently evaluated and validated in UV + MED-treated nude mice through skin phenotypes and histopathological structure analyses. Taken together, these results indicate that MED exerts therapeutic effects against UV-induced photoaging and has the potential for future development as a treatment for photoaging.

The regulatory role of Korean ginseng in skin cells

As the largest organ in our body, the skin acts as a barrier against external stress and damages. There are various cell types of skin, such as keratinocytes, melanocytes, fibroblasts, and skin stem cells. Korean ginseng, which is one of the biggest distributions of ginseng worldwide, is processed into different products, such as functional food, cosmetics, and medical supplies. This review aims to introduce the functional role of Korean ginseng on different dermal cell types, including the impact of Korean ginseng in anti-photodamaging, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-melanogenic, and wound healing activities, etc. We propose that this information could form the basis of future research of ginseng-derived components in skin health.

The effect of Q-switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser on skin barrier and collagen synthesis via miR-663a to regulate TGFβ1/smad3/p38MAPK pathway

BACKGROUND

Our previous research found that Q-switched 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser (1064-QSNYL) induces skin collagen synthesis by activating TGFβ1/Smad3/p38MAPKs pathway. Moreover, a lot of studies shown that MicroRNAs (miRNAs) contribute to regulate collagen synthesis and skin barrier. Therefore, we intend to explore the mechanism of 1064-QSNYL on collagen synthesis and skin barrier through miRNAs.

METHODS

We predicted the upstream miRNAs of TGFβ1 by bioinformatics databases, and verified them through dual-luciferase reporter genes and Western blotting. The expression of collagen, skin barrier-related protein K10 and filaggrin, TIMP-1, and MMP-2 were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. Moreover, we detected moisture content, elasticity value, TEWL value, SOD vitality, and hydroxyproline content to evaluate skin barrier of mice. H&E staining to observe the change of dermis thickness and inflammation and infiltration of mice skin.

RESULTS

The results shown that TGFβ1 was target gene of miR-663a. Moreover, we found that 1064-QSNYL activated TGFβ1/smad3/p38MAPK pathway by down-regulating the expression of miR-663a in HaCaT, HDF cells, and mice, thereby promoting expression of Collagen I, Collagen IV, TIMP-1, K10, and filaggrin and inhibiting MMP-2. Furthermore, 1064-QSNYL contributed to moisture content, elasticity, SOD vitality, and hydroxyproline content via miR-663a to activate TGFβ1/smad3/p38MAPK pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this study found for the first time that 1064-QSNYL contributed to collagen synthesis and skin repair via miR-663a to regulate TGFβ1/smad3/p38MAPK pathway, thereby achieving skin rejuvenation.

Rosa multiflora Thunb Flower Extract Attenuates Ultraviolet-Induced Photoaging in Skin Cells and Hairless Mice

Ethanol extract (RET) of Rosa multiflora Thunb flowers and its subfractions in ethylacetate (REA) or n-butanol subfractions (RBT) were reported to have potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, we investigated if those Rosa multiflora flower (RMF) extracts prevent ultraviolet (UV)-induced biochemical damages leading to photoaging. In keratinocyte or dermal fibroblasts, RET, REA, and RBT treatments with UV irradiation significantly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 levels through suppression of nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinases. In the animal experiment, mice were orally supplemented with RET (RET group) or REA and RBT mixture (RM group) for 10 weeks, concomitantly with UV exposure. Tumor necrosis factor alpha production and MMP-13 expression were reduced in the mouse skin of RET and RM groups compared with those in the UV control (UVC) group. UV-induced IL-6 production and epidermal thickening were reduced in RM group compared with those in UVC group. Eight phenolic compounds, including quercitrin (quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside), were identified in RMF extracts. Quercitrin treatment to dermal fibroblasts significantly attenuated an increase of MMP-1 expression and a decrease of type I procollagen expression caused by UV. Collectively, RMF extracts showed protective effects from UV-induced photoaging in the skin through suppression of ROS generation, proinflammatory cytokine production, and MMP expression. Quercitrin is suggested to be one of the effective compounds.

Mixture of enzyme-processed Panax ginseng and Gastrodia elata extract prevents UVB-induced decrease of procollagen type 1 and increase of MMP-1 and IL-6 in human dermal fibroblasts

According to the previously described anti-photoaging effect of the enzyme-processed Panax ginseng extract and Gastrodia elata extract, we hypothesized that the combination of the two extracts would have superior effect to protect human skin from UVB radiation. Besides, the mixture of active components isolated from herbal extracts, ginsenoside F2, and α-gastrodin was investigated on the photo-protective capability. The expression of aging-related markers including matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and procollagen type 1 was evaluated using ELISA kits. It was reported that the herbal extract at a Panax ginseng extract to Gastrodia elata extract ratio of 1:10 (w/w) and the compound mixture with equal proportion of ginsenoside F2 and α-gastrodin exhibited significant inhibition of MMP-1 and IL-6 production, and marked upregulation of procollagen type 1 formation. Thus, the combination of either the enzyme-processed herbal extracts or their active components would enhance the properties of prevention and treatment of UVB-induced skin damage.

Preclinical Herb-Drug Pharmacokinetic Interaction of Panax ginseng Extract and Selegiline in Freely Moving Rats

Selegiline, an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase B, is prescribed during the early stages of Parkinson's disease. The nutritional herbal medicine Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer has been reported to show potential neuroprotective activity; however, the herb-drug pharmacokinetic interaction between selegiline and P. ginseng extract has not been characterized. Our hypothesis is that the ginseng extract and selegiline produce pharmacokinetic interactions at certain doses. To investigate this hypothesis, a validated ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed to monitor selegiline in rat plasma. Experimental rats were divided into groups treated with selegiline alone (10 mg/kg, i.v.; 30 mg/kg, p.o.), with the low-dose ginseng extract (1 g/kg, p.o., for 5 consecutive days) or with the high-dose ginseng extract (3 g/kg, p.o., for 5 consecutive days). The pharmacokinetic results demonstrated that the oral bioavailability of selegiline alone was approximately 18%; however, when rats were pretreated with low and high doses of the ginseng extract, the bioavailability of selegiline was 7.2 and 29%, respectively. These results suggested that the ginseng extract may produce a biphasic pharmacokinetic phenomenon. In summary, ginseng alters the oral bioavailability of selegiline, and these observations might provide preclinical information concerning the pharmacokinetic interactions between selegiline and herbal supplements.

Defense potential of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants under UV-B stress

Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation has, for many decades now, been widely studied with respect to its consequences on plant and animal health. Though according to NASA, the ozone hole is on its way to recovery, it will still be a considerable time before UV-B levels reach pre-industrial limits. Thus, for the present, excessive UV-B reaching the Earth is a cause for concern, and UV-B related human ailments are on the rise. Plants produce various secondary metabolites as one of the defense strategies under UV-B. They provide photoprotection via their UV-B screening effects and by quenching the reactive oxygen- and nitrogen species produced under UV-B influence. These properties of plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) are being increasingly recognized and made use of in sunscreens and cosmetics, and pharma- and nutraceuticals are gradually becoming a part of the regular diet. Secondary metabolites derived from medicinal plants (alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolics) are a source of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, as well as more rigorously tested and regulated drugs. These metabolites have been implicated in providing protection not only to plants under the influence of UV-B, but also to animals/animal cell lines, when the innate defenses in the latter are not adequate under UV-B-induced damage. The present review focuses on the defense potential of secondary metabolites derived from medicinal plants in both plants and animals. In plants, the concentrations of the alkaloids, terpenes/terpenoids, and phenolics have been discussed under UV-B irradiation as well as the fate of the genes and enzymes involved in their biosynthetic pathways. Their role in providing protection to animal models subjected to UV-B has been subsequently elucidated. Finally, we discuss the possible futuristic scenarios and implications for plant, animal, and human health pertaining to the defense potential of these secondary metabolites under UV-B radiation-mediated damages.

Hawthorn Polyphenol Extract Inhibits UVB-Induced Skin Photoaging by Regulating MMP Expression and Type I Procollagen Production in Mice

Ultraviolet (UV) B radiation can cause skin aging by increasing matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) production and collagen degradation, leading to the formation of wrinkles. This study investigated whether hawthorn polyphenol extract (HPE) protects against UVB-induced skin photoaging using HaCaT human keratinocytes, normal human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), and mice. Analysis of the phenol composition of HPE by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that chlorogenic acid (13.5%), procyanidin B2 (19.2%), and epicatechin (18.8%) collectively accounted for 51.4% of total phenol content and represent the active ingredients of hawthorn fruit. A cell viability assay revealed that HPE treatment promoted cell proliferation in HaCaT cells and HDFs. On the other hand, MMP-1 and type I procollagen production was decreased and increased, respectively, in UVB-exposed cells treated with HPE as compared with those without treatment, as determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Hematoxylin and eosin and Weigert staining of dermal tissue specimens from mice demonstrated that HPE also reversed UVB-induced epidermal thickening and dermal damage. The increase in production of reactive oxygen species and decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity as well as the increase in nuclear factor-κB activation and mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation induced by UVB irradiation were reversed by HPE (100 or 300 mg/kg body weight), which also suppressed MMP expression and stimulated the production of type I procollagen in the dorsal skin of UVB-irradiated mice. These results suggest that HPE is a natural product that can prevent UVB radiation-induced skin photoaging.

Anti‑apoptotic effects of glycosaminoglycans via inhibition of ERK/AP‑1 signaling in TNF‑α‑stimulated human dermal fibroblasts

It has been established that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) serve an important role in protecting the skin against the effects of aging. A previous clinical trial by our group identified that a cream containing GAGs reduced wrinkles and increased skin elasticity, dermal density and skin tightening. However, the exact molecular mechanism underlying the anti‑aging effect of GAGs has not yet been fully elucidated. The present study assessed the influence of GAGs on cell viability, collagen synthesis and collagen synthesis‑associated signaling pathways in tumor necrosis factor‑α (TNF‑α)‑stimulated human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs); an in vitro model of aging. The results demonstrated that GAGs restored type I collagen synthesis and secretion by inhibiting extracellular signal‑regulated kinase (ERK) signaling in TNF‑α‑stimulated HDFs. However, GAGs did not activate c‑jun N‑terminal kinase or p38. It was determined that GAGs suppressed the phosphorylation of downstream transcription factors of ERK activation, activator protein‑1 (AP‑1; c‑fos and c‑jun), leading to a decrease in matrix metalloproteinase‑1 (MMP‑1) levels and the upregulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‑1 in TNF‑α‑stimulated HDFs. In addition, GAGs attenuated the apoptosis of HDFs induced by TNF‑α. The current study revealed a novel mechanism: GAGs serve a crucial role in ameliorating TNF‑α‑induced MMP‑1 expression, which causes type I collagen degeneration via the inactivation of ERK/AP‑1 signaling in HDFs. The results of the present study indicate the potential application of GAGs as effective anti‑aging agents that induce wrinkle reduction.

Resveratrol-Enriched Rice Attenuates UVB-ROS-Induced Skin Aging via Downregulation of Inflammatory Cascades

The skin is the outermost protective barrier between the internal and external environments in humans. Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of skin aging. UVB radiation penetrates the skin and induces ROS production that activates three major skin aging cascades: matrix metalloproteinase- (MMP-) 1-mediated aging; MAPK-AP-1/NF-κB-TNF-α/IL-6, iNOS, and COX-2-mediated inflammation-induced aging; and p53-Bax-cleaved caspase-3-cytochrome C-mediated apoptosis-induced aging. These mechanisms are collectively responsible for the wrinkling and photoaging characteristic of UVB-induced skin aging. There is an urgent requirement for a treatment that not only controls these pathways to prevent skin aging but also avoids the adverse effects often encountered when applying bioactive compounds in concentrated doses. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of genetically modified normal edible rice (NR) that produces the antiaging compound resveratrol (R) as a treatment for skin aging. This resveratrol-enriched rice (RR) overcomes the drawbacks of R and enhances its antiaging potential by controlling the abovementioned three major pathways of skin aging. RR does not exhibit the toxicity of R alone and promisingly downregulates the pathways underlying UVB-ROS-induced skin aging. These findings advocate the use of RR as a nutraceutical for antiaging purposes.

Plant extracts and natural compounds used against UVB-induced photoaging

Skin is continuously exposed to a variety of environmental stresses, including ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UVB is an inherent component of sunlight that crosses the epidermis and reaches the upper dermis, leading to increased oxidative stress, activation of inflammatory response and accumulation of DNA damage among other effects. The increase in UVB radiation on earth due to the destruction of stratospheric ozone poses a major environmental threat to the skin, increasing the risk of damage with long-term consequences, such as photoaging and photocarcinogenesis. Extracts from plants and natural compounds have been historically used in traditional medicine in the form of teas and ointments but the effect of most of these compounds has yet to be verified. Regarding the increasing concern of the population with issues related to quality of life and appearance, the cosmetic market for anti-aging and photoprotective products based on natural compounds is continuously growing, and there is increasing requirement of expansion on research in this field. In this review we summarized the most current and relevant information concerning plant extracts and natural compounds that are able to protect or mitigate the deleterious effects caused by photoaging in different experimental models.

Antimelanogenesis Activity of Hydrolyzed Ginseng Extract (GINST) via Inhibition of JNK Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase in B16F10 Cells

GINST is a hydrolyzed ginseng extract produced by an in vitro process that imitates the metabolic function of bacteria in the human digestive track and has approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety of Korea for the management of postprandial hyperglycemia. Additionally, GINST has been reported to have other physiological functions including anti-aging and antioxidant effects. The objectives of this study are to compare the antimelanogenic effects of fresh ginseng extract (FGE) and GINST extract and to elucidate the functional mechanism. The concentration of total ginsenosides in FGE and GINST was measured using ultraperformance liquid chromatography with a C18 column. B16F10 cells were treated with FGE and GINST for 72 h to assess melanin content, tyrosinase activity, and protein levels of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1). The activity of kinases involved in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, such as extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38), were measured using western blots. While neither FGE nor GINST inhibited the activity of mushroom tyrosinase directly, GINST decreased melanogenesis and tyrosinase activity markedly. Furthermore, our results indicate that GINST downregulated the levels of MITF and TRP-1 possibly by suppressing JNK signaling. We concluded that, when compared to FGE, GINST has a superior antimelanogenic effect mediated by the downregulation of MITF, TRP-1, and intracellular tyrosinase activity via the JNK signaling pathway. Thus, we suggest that GINST has the potential to be used as a novel skin whitening agent.

Methanol Extract of Bitter Melon Alleviates UVB-Induced MMPs Expression via MAP Kinase and AP-1 Signaling in Human Dermal Fibroblasts in vitro

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation leads to photo-damage of the skin, which in turn induces expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and reduces type I procollagen. Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) has been widely used as a traditional medicine. In this study, we tested the photo-protective effects of methanol extracts of bitter melon pulp (BM) and the mechanism of these effects in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). The effects of BM were investigated by measuring the levels of MMP-1, -3 and -9, and type I procollagen following UVB irradiation. We found that BM alleviates UVB-induced MMP-1, -3 and -9 expression at 100 µg/mL (down to 52.0%, 73.5%, and 55.6%, respectively). However, cells treated with 100 µg/mL BM had weakly stimulated type I procollagen expression (up to 130.0%). Moreover, treatment with BM significantly reduced UVB-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 phosphorylation, which resulted in decreasing UVB-induced phosphorylation of c-Fos and c-Jun. Therefore, our results suggest that BM is a potential agent for regulating skin photoaging. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin

BACKGROUND

Human skin undergoes distinct changes throughout the aging process, based on both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. In a process called photoaging, UVB irradiation leads to upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase-1, which then causes collagen degradation and premature aging. Mixtures of medicinal plants have traditionally been used as drugs in oriental medicine. Based on the previously reported antioxidant properties of Panax ginseng Meyer and Crataegus pinnatifida, we hypothesized that the mixture of P. ginseng Meyer and C. pinnatifida (GC) would have protective effects against skin aging.

METHODS

Anti-aging activity was examined both in human dermal fibroblasts under UVB irradiation by using Western blot analysis and in healthy human skin by examining noninvasive measurements.

RESULTS

In vitro studies showed that GC improved procollagen type I expression and diminished matrix metalloproteinase-1 secretion. Based on noninvasive measurements, skin roughness values, including total roughness (R1), maximum roughness (R2), smoothness depth and average roughness (R3), and global photodamage scores were improved by GC application. Moreover, GC ameliorated the high values of smoothness depth (R4), which means that GC reduced loss of skin moisture.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that GC can prevent aging by inhibiting wrinkle formation and increasing moisture in the human skin.

A single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the efficacy and safety of "enzyme-treated red ginseng powder complex (BG11001)" for antiwrinkle and proelasticity in individuals with healthy skin

BACKGROUND

During the aging process, skin shows visible changes, characterized by a loss of elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles due to reduced collagen production and decreased elasticity of elastin fibers. Panax ginseng Meyer has been used as a traditional medicine for various diseases due to its wide range of biological activities including skin protective effects. Ginsenosides are the main components responsible for the biological activities of ginseng. However, the protective activities of an enzymatic preparation of red ginseng against human skin aging have not been investigated.

METHODS

The efficacy of an enzyme-treated powder complex of red ginseng (BG11001) in preventing human skin aging was evaluated by oral administration to 78 randomized individuals. All patients were requested to take three daily capsules containing either 750 mg of BG11001 or a placebo vehicle for 24 wk; at the end of the testing period, skin roughness, elasticity, and skin water content were measured.

RESULTS

BG11001 significantly reduced the average roughness of eye wrinkles and the Global Photo Damage Score compared with the placebo, although there were no significant differences in arithmetic roughness average between the groups. In addition, gross elasticity and net elasticity values increased, and transepidermal water loss level decreased, indicating improved skin elasticity and moisture content.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, enzyme-treated red ginseng extract significantly improved eye wrinkle roughness, skin elasticity, and moisture content. Moreover, enzyme-treated red ginseng extract would be useful substance as a bio-health skin care product.

Thread Embedding Acupuncture Inhibits Ultraviolet B Irradiation-Induced Skin Photoaging in Hairless Mice

Thread embedding acupuncture (TEA) is an acupuncture treatment applied to many diseases in Korean medical clinics because of its therapeutic effects by continuous stimulation to tissues. It has recently been used to enhance facial skin appearance and antiaging, but data from evidence-based medicine are limited. To investigate whether TEA therapy can inhibit skin photoaging by ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation, we performed analyses for histology, histopathology, in situ zymography and western blot analysis in HR-1 hairless mice. TEA treatment resulted in decreased wrinkle formation and skin thickness (Epidermis; P = 0.001 versus UV) in UVB irradiated mice and also inhibited degradation of collagen fibers (P = 0.010 versus normal) by inhibiting proteolytic activity of gelatinase matrix-metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Western blot data showed that activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) induced by UVB (P = 0.002 versus normal group) was significantly inhibited by TEA treatment (P = 0.005 versus UV) with subsequent alleviation of MMP-9 activation (P = 0.048 versus UV). These results suggest that TEA treatment can have anti-photoaging effects on UVB-induced skin damage by maintenance of collagen density through regulation of expression of MMP-9 and related JNK signaling. Therefore, TEA therapy may have potential roles as an alternative treatment for protection against skin damage from aging.

Humulus japonicus extract exhibits antioxidative and anti-aging effects via modulation of the AMPK-SIRT1 pathway

The perennial herb, Humulus japonicus, has been previously described as possessing potential antituberculosis and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, the anti-aging activity of ethanol extracts from the leaves of H. japonicus (HJE) was evaluated in yeast and human fibroblast cells. In addition, the antioxidant activity of HJE was analyzed using free radical scavenging assays. Furthermore, the mechanism underlying the hypothesized HJE-associated extension of lifespan was investigated, and the results indicated that HJE was able to extend the lifespan of yeast cells. Further experiments demonstrated that HJE upregulated the longevity-associated proteins, sirtuin 1 and AMP-activated protein kinase, and effectively inhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition, the antioxidative potential of the active constituents of HJE, including luteolin, luteolin 7-glycoside, quercetin and quercitrin, was evaluated and the results demonstrated that these flavonoids were able to scavenge ROS in cell-free and intracellular systems. In summary, the results revealed that HJE possessed the potential for antioxidative activity; however, further in vivo investigations are required with the aim of developing safe, high-efficacy anti-aging agents.

Compound K inhibits MMP-1 expression through suppression of c-Src-dependent ERK activation in TNF-α-stimulated dermal fibroblast

Compound K (CK) is one of the major metabolites of ginsenosides exhibiting a variety of pharmacological properties such as anti-ageing, anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the protective efficacy of CK in abnormal skin conditions with inflammatory responses was not examined. Here, we investigated the effects of CK on matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and type I procollagen production in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-stimulated human skin fibroblasts HS68 cells and human skin equivalents. We found that CK suppressed MMP-1 secretion and increased the level of reduced type I procollagen secretion, caused by the inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation, but not p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation in TNF-α-stimulated HS68 cells. Then, we focused on the involvement of the c-Src and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as upstream signalling molecules for ERK activation by TNF-α in HS68 cells. CK suppressed the phosphorylation of c-Src/EGFR by TNF-α, which led to the inactivation of downstream signalling molecules including AKT and MEK. In addition, CK suppressed AP-1 (c-jun and c-fos) phosphorylation as downstream transcription factors of active ERK for MMP-1 expression in TNFα-stimulated HS68 cells. These results showed novel mechanisms by which CK inhibits TNF-α-induced MMP-1 expression through the inactivation of c-Src/EGFR-dependent ERK/AP-1 signalling pathway, resulting in the inhibition of collagen degradation in human fibroblast cells. Therefore, CK may be a promising protective agent for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions such as skin ageing and atopic dermatitis.

Gallic acid regulates skin photoaging in UVB-exposed fibroblast and hairless mice

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the primary factor in skin photoaging, which is characterized by wrinkle formation, dryness, and thickening. The mechanisms underlying skin photoaging are closely associated with degradation of collagen via upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, which is induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Gallic acid (GA), a phenolic compound, possesses a variety of biological activities including antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities. We investigated the protective effects of GA against photoaging caused by UVB irradiation using normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) in vitro and hairless mice in vivo. The production levels of ROS, interlukin-6, and MMP-1 were significantly suppressed, and type I procollagen expression was stimulated in UVB-irradiated and GA-treated NHDFs. GA treatment inhibited the activity of transcription factor activation protein 1. The effects of GA following topical application and dietary administration were examined by measuring wrinkle formation, histological modification, protein expression, and physiological changes such as stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss, and erythema index. We found that GA decreased dryness, skin thickness, and wrinkle formation via negative modulation of MMP-1 secretion and positive regulation of elastin, type I procollagen, and transforming growth factor-β1. Our data indicate that GA is a potential candidate for the prevention of UVB-induced premature skin aging.