Anthocyanins from black peanut skin protect against UV-B induced keratinocyte cell and skin oxidative damage through activating Nrf 2 signaling

Exploring the Potential of Anthocyanins for Repairing Photoaged Skin: A Comprehensive Review

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can result in skin photoaging, which is primarily characterized by dryness, roughness, pigmentation, and a loss of elasticity. However, the clinical drugs commonly employed to treat photoaged skin often induce adverse effects on the skin. Anthocyanins (ACNs) are water-soluble pigments occurring abundantly in various flowers, fruits, vegetables, and grains and exhibiting a range of biological activities. Studies have demonstrated that ACNs contribute to the repair of photoaged skin due to their diverse biological characteristics and minimal side effects. Evidence suggests that the stability of ACNs can be enhanced through encapsulation or combination with other substances to improve their bioavailability and permeability, ultimately augmenting their efficacy in repairing photoaged skin. A growing body of research utilizing cell lines, animal models, and clinical studies has produced compelling data demonstrating that ACNs mitigate skin photoaging by reducing oxidative stress, alleviating the inflammatory response, improving collagen synthesis, alleviating DNA damage, and inhibiting pigmentation. This review introduces sources of ACNs while systematically summarizing their application forms as well as mechanisms for repairing photoaged skin. Additionally, it explores the potential role of ACNs in developing functional foods. These findings may provide valuable insight into using ACNs as promising candidates for developing functional products aimed at repairing photoaged skin.

Assessing Transcriptomic Responses to Oxidative Stress: Contrasting Wild-Type Arabidopsis Seedlings with dss1(I) and dss1(V) Gene Knockout Mutants

Oxidative stress represents a critical facet of the array of abiotic stresses affecting crop growth and yield. In this paper, we investigated the potential differences in the functions of two highly homologous Arabidopsis DSS1 proteins in terms of maintaining genome integrity and response to oxidative stress. In the context of homologous recombination (HR), it was shown that overexpressing AtDSS1(I) using a functional complementation test increases the resistance of the Δdss1 mutant of Ustilago maydis to genotoxic agents. This indicates its conserved role in DNA repair via HR. To investigate the global transcriptome changes occurring in dss1 plant mutant lines, gene expression analysis was conducted using Illumina RNA sequencing technology. Individual RNA libraries were constructed from three total RNA samples isolated from dss1(I), dss1(V), and wild-type (WT) plants under hydrogen peroxide-induced stress. RNA-Seq data analysis and real-time PCR identification revealed major changes in gene expression between mutant lines and WT, while the dss1(I) and dss1(V) mutant lines exhibited analogous transcription profiles. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis revealed significantly enriched metabolic pathways. Notably, genes associated with HR were upregulated in dss1 mutants compared to the WT. Otherwise, genes of the metabolic pathway responsible for the synthesis of secondary metabolites were downregulated in both dss1 mutant lines. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms of plant responses to oxidative stress.

Combination of red ginseng and velvet antler extracts prevents skin damage by enhancing the antioxidant defense system and inhibiting MAPK/AP-1/NF-κB and caspase signaling pathways in UVB-irradiated HaCaT keratinocytes and SKH-1 hairless mice

Background

Studies have reported that the combination of two or more therapeutic compounds at certain ratios has more noticeable pharmaceutical properties than single compounds and requires reduced dosage of each agent. Red ginseng and velvet antler have been extensively used in boosting immunity and physical strength and preventing diseases. Thus, this study was conducted to elucidate the skin-protective potentials of red ginseng extract (RGE) and velvet antler extract (VAE) alone or in combination on ultraviolet (UVB)-irradiated human keratinocytes and SKH-1 hairless mice.

Methods

HaCaT cells were preincubated with RGE/VAE alone or in combination for 2 h before UVB (30 mJ/cm2) irradiation. SKH-1 mice were orally given RGE/VAE alone or in combination for 15 days before exposure to single dose of UVB (600 mJ/cm2). Treated cells and treated skin tissues were collected and subjected to subsequent experiments.

Results

RGE/VAE pretreatment alone or in combination significantly prevented UVB-induced cell death, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species production, and DNA damage in keratinocytes and SKH-1 mouse skins by downregulating mitogen-activated protein kinases/activator protein 1/nuclear factor kappa B and caspase signaling pathways. These extracts also strengthened the antioxidant defense systems and skin barriers in UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells and SKH-1 mouse skins. Furthermore, RGE/VAE co-administration appeared to be more effective in preventing UVB-caused skin injury than these extracts used alone.

Conclusion

Overall, these findings suggest that the consumption of RGE/VAE, especially in combination, offers a protective ability against UVB-caused skin injury by preventing inflammation and apoptosis and enhancing antioxidant capacity.

Protein and Peptide-Based Nanotechnology for Enhancing Stability, Bioactivity, and Delivery of Anthocyanins

Anthocyanin, a unique natural polyphenol, is abundant in plants and widely utilized in biomedicine, cosmetics, and the food industry due to its excellent antioxidant, anticancer, antiaging, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the degradation of anthocyanin in an extreme environment, such as alkali pH, high temperatures, and metal ions, limits its physiochemical stabilities and bioavailabilities. Encapsulation and combining anthocyanin with biomaterials could efficiently stabilize anthocyanin for protection. Promisingly, natural or artificially designed proteins and peptides with favorable stabilities, excellent biocapacity, and wide sources are potential candidates to stabilize anthocyanin. This review focuses on recent progress, strategies, and perspectives on protein and peptide for anthocyanin functionalization and delivery, i.e., formulation technologies, physicochemical stability enhancement, cellular uptake, bioavailabilities, and biological activities development. Interestingly, due to the simplicity and diversity of peptide structure, the interaction mechanisms between peptide and anthocyanin could be illustrated. This work sheds light on the mechanism of protein/peptide-anthocyanin nanoparticle construction and expands on potential applications of anthocyanin in nutrition and biomedicine.

Nrf2-Mediated Pathway Activated by Prunus spinosa L. (Rosaceae) Fruit Extract: Bioinformatics Analyses and Experimental Validation

In our previous studies, Prunus spinosa fruit (PSF) ethanol extract was showed to exert antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities. In the present study, an integrated bioinformatics analysis combined with experimental validation was carried out to investigate the biological mechanism(s) that are responsible for the reported PSF beneficial effects as an antioxidant during a pro-inflammatory TLR4 insult. Bioinformatics analysis using miRNet 2.0 was carried out to address which biological process(es) the extract could be involved in. In addition, Chemprop was employed to identify the key targets of nuclear receptor (NR) signaling and stress response (SR) pathways potentially modulated. The miRNet analysis suggested that the PSF extract mostly activates the biological process of cellular senescence. The Chemprop analysis predicted three possible targets for nine phytochemicals found in the extract: (i) ARE signaling, (ii) mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and (iii) p53 SR pathways. The PSF extract antioxidant effect was also experimentally validated in vitro using the human monocyte U937 cell line. Our findings showed that Nrf2 is modulated by the extract with a consequent reduction of the oxidative stress level. This was confirmed by a strong decrease in the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) observed in the PSF-treated cells subjected to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (6 h treatment, 1 µg/mL). No visible effects were observed on p53 and MMP modulation.

Comparative proteoinformatics revealed the essentials of SDS impact on HaCaT keratinocytes

There is no direct evidence supporting that SDS is a carcinogen, so to investigate this fact, we used HaCaT keratinocytes as a model of human epidermal cells. To reveal the candidate proteins and/or pathways characterizing the SDS impact on HaCaT, we proposed comparative proteoinformatics pipeline. For protein extraction, the performance of two sample preparation protocols was assessed: 0.2% SDS-based solubilization combined with the 1DE-gel concentration (Protocol 1) and osmotic shock (Protocol 2). As a result, in SDS-exposed HaCaT cells, Protocol 1 revealed 54 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) involved in the disease of cellular proliferation (DOID:14566), whereas Protocol 2 found 45 DEPs of the same disease ID. The 'skin cancer' term was a single significant COSMIC term for Protocol 1 DEPs, including those involved in double-strand break repair pathway (BIR, GO:0000727). Considerable upregulation of BIR-associated proteins MCM3, MCM6, and MCM7 was detected. The eightfold increase in MCM6 level was verified by reverse transcription qPCR. Thus, Protocol 1 demonstrated high effectiveness in terms of the total number and sensitivity of MS identifications in HaCaT cell line proteomic analysis. The utility of Protocol 1 was confirmed by the revealed upregulation of cancer-associated MCM6 in HaCaT keratinocytes induced by non-toxic concentration of SDS. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD035202.

Visualizing the Distribution of Lipids in Peanut Seeds by MALDI Mass Spectrometric Imaging

Peanut (also called groundnut, Arachis hypogaea L.) seeds are used for producing edible oils and functional foods, and offer a rich source of lipids, proteins and carbohydrates. However, the location of these metabolites has not yet been firmly established. In the present study, the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging (MALDI-MSI) technique was applied to investigate spatial distribution of lipids and other key components in seeds of three peanut cultivars (ZH9, KQBH, HP). A total of 103 metabolites, including 34 lipid compounds, were putatively identified by MALDI-MSI. The abundance and spatial distribution of glycerolipids (GLs) and glycerophospholipids (GPs) were compared among the three peanut cultivars. All the identified lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylcholines (PCs) were distributed mainly in the inner part of seeds. The visualization of phosphatidic acids (PAs) and triacylglycerols (TGs) revealed a dramatic metabolic heterogeneity between the different tissues making up the seed. The non-homogeneous spatial distribution of metabolites appeared to be related to the different functions of particular tissue regions. These results indicated that MALDI-MSI could be useful for investigating the lipids of foodstuffs from a spatial perspective. The present study may contribute to the development of oil crops with higher oil yields, and to improvement of food processing.

The Peanut Skin Procyanidins Attenuate DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice

Polyphenols from peanut skin have been reported to possess many beneficial functions for human health, including anti-oxidative, antibacterial, anticancer, and other activities. To date, however, its anti-inflammatory effect and the underlying mechanism remain unclear. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effect of peanut skin procyanidins extract (PSPE) and peanut skin procyanidins (PSPc) were investigated by a dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. The results showed that both PSPE and PSPc supplementation reversed the DSS-induced body weight loss and reduced disease activity index (DAI) values, accompanied by enhanced goblet cell numbers and tight junction protein claudin-1 expression in the colon. PSPE and PSPc treatment also suppressed the inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the colon by down-regulating IL-1β, TNF-α, and MDA expressions. Meanwhile, PSPE and PSPc significantly altered the gut microbiota composition by increasing the relative abundance of Clostridium XlVb and Anaerotruncus, and inhibiting the relative abundance of Alistipes at the genus level. PSPE and PSPc also significantly elevated the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in mice with colitis. The correlation analysis suggested that the protective effects of PSPE and PSPc on colitis might be related to the alteration of gut microbiota composition and the formation of SCFAs. In conclusion, the current research indicates that supplementation of PSPE and PSPc could be a promising nutritional strategy for colitis prevention and treatment.

Mechanisms of ultraviolet-induced melasma formation: A review

Melasma, a pigmentation disorder, commonly occurs in exposed skin areas and can be attributed to several factors. Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the primary factor that induces and aggravates melasma. Considering gene expression, exposed skin areas experience abnormal gene expression, involving melanin metabolism, oxidative stress, impaired skin barrier function, and abnormal composition of nerve factors. From a histological perspective, UVR can cause basement membrane collapse, melanocyte sinking, and disorders of skin lipid metabolism. Emerging therapies have focused on these pathological alterations in melasma, including platelet-rich plasma, mesotherapy, and phytochemicals. Understanding the role of UVR in the development of melasma can facilitate early prevention and highlight the future direction of melasma treatment.

Photo-Protective and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Antidesma thwaitesianum Müll. Arg. Fruit Extract against UVB-Induced Keratinocyte Cell Damage

The main cause of most skin cancers is damage from UVB from sunlight, which penetrate the skin surface and induce inflammation. For this reason, this study aims to identify natural products with photo-protection properties and their mode of action by using the UVB-irradiated HaCaT keratinocyte model. Antidesma thwaitesianum fruit extracts at 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL recovered cell viability following UVB exposure in a dose-dependent manner. Cell survival was associated with the reduction in intracellular ROS and NO. In addition, we showed that the pre-treatment with the fruit extract lowered the phosphorylation level of two MAPK-signaling pathways: p38 MAPKs and JNKs. The resulting lower MAPK activation decreased their downstream pro-inflammatory cascade through COX-2 expression and subsequently reduced the PGE₂ proinflammatory mediator level. The photoprotective effects of the fruit extract were correlated with the presence of polyphenolic compounds, including cyanidin, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, vanillic acid, and protocatechuic acid, which have been previously described as antioxidant and anti-inflammation. Together, we demonstrated that the pre-treatment with the fruit extract had photo-protection by inhibiting oxidative stress and subsequently lowered stress-induced MAPK responses. Therefore, this fresh fruit is worthy of investigation to be utilized as a skincare ingredient for preventing UVB-induced skin damage.

Dietary polyglycosylated anthocyanins, the smart option? A comprehensive review on their health benefits and technological applications

Over the years, anthocyanins have emerged as one of the most enthralling groups of natural phenolic compounds and more than 700 distinct structures have already been identified, illustrating the exceptional variety spread in nature. The interest raised around anthocyanins goes way beyond their visually appealing colors and their acknowledged structural and biological properties have fueled intensive research toward their application in different contexts. However, the high susceptibility of monoglycosylated anthocyanins to degradation under certain external conditions might compromise their application. In that regard, polyglycosylated anthocyanins (PGA) might offer an alternative to overcome this issue, owing to their peculiar structure and consequent less predisposition to degradation. The most recent scientific and technological findings concerning PGA and their food sources are thoroughly described and discussed in this comprehensive review. Different issues, including their physical-chemical characteristics, consumption, bioavailability, and biological relevance in the context of different pathologies, are covered in detail, along with the most relevant prospective technological applications. Due to their complex structure and acyl groups, most of the PGA exhibit an overall higher stability than the monoglycosylated ones. Their versatility allows them to act in a wide range of pathologies, either by acting directly in molecular pathways or by modulating the disease environment attributing an added value to their food sources. Their recent usage for technological applications has also been particularly successful in different industry fields including food and smart packaging or in solar energy production systems. Altogether, this review aims to put into perspective the current state and future research on PGA and their food sources.

The Structure Basis of Phytochemicals as Metabolic Signals for Combating Obesity

The consumption of phytochemicals, bioactive compounds in fruits and vegetables, has been demonstrated to ameliorate obesity and related metabolic symptoms by regulating specific metabolic pathways. This review summarizes the progress made in our understanding of the potential of phytochemicals as metabolic signals: we discuss herein selected molecular mechanisms which are involved in the occurrence of obesity that may be regulated by phytochemicals. The focus of our review highlights the regulation of transcription factors toll like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) and regulation of microRNAs (miRNA). In this review, the effect of phytochemicals on signaling pathways involved in obesity were discussed on the basis of their chemical structure, suggesting molecular mechanisms for how phytochemicals may impact these signaling pathways. For example, compounds with an isothiocyanate group or an α, β-unsaturated carbonyl group may interact with the TLR4 signaling pathway. Regarding Nrf2, we examine compounds possessing an α, β-unsaturated carbonyl group which binds covalently with the cysteine thiols of Keap1. Additionally, phytochemical activation of PPARs, FTO and miRNAs were summarized. This information may be of value to better understand how specific phytochemicals interact with specific signaling pathways and help guide the development of new drugs to combat obesity and related metabolic diseases.

Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins Exert a Radioprotective Effect on the Testes and Intestines Through Antioxidant Effects and Inhibition of MAPK Signal Pathways

The testes and intestines are highly sensitive to ionizing radiation. Low-dose radiation can cause infertility and enteritis. However, there is a lack of safe and efficient radioprotective agents. This study aims to investigate the radioprotective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSPs) on testicular and intestinal damage induced by ionizing radiation. In vitro, GSPs reduced the apoptosis and proliferation inhibition of mouse testicular stromal cells TM3 and human small intestinal crypt epithelial cells HIEC induced by ionizing radiation, and alleviated DNA double-strand breaks. In vivo, GSPs ameliorated the pathological damage of the testes and intestines induced by ionizing radiation, and protected the endocrine function of the testes and the barrier function of the intestines. In addition, we preliminarily proved that the radioprotective effect of GSPs is related to its antioxidant effect and inhibition of MAPK signaling pathways. Our results indicate that GSPs are expected to be a safe and effective radioprotective drug.

Phenotypic and transcriptomic changes in the corneal epithelium following exposure to cigarette smoke

Cigarette smoke extract (CSE), a complex mixture of compounds, contributes to a range of eye diseases; however, the underlying pathophysiological responses to tobacco smoke remain ambiguous. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the cigarette smoke-induced phenotypic and transcriptomic changes in the corneal epithelium with a view to elucidating the likely underlying mechanism. Accordingly, for the first time, we characterized the genome-wide effects of CSE on the corneal epithelium. The ocular surface of the mice in the experimental groups was exposed to CSE for 1 h per day for a period of one week, while mice in the control group were exposed to preservative-free artificial tears. Corneal fluorescein staining, in vivo confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed to examine the corneal ultrastructure. Transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were performed followed by RT-qPCR to validate gene expression changes. The results indicate that CSE exposure disrupted the structural integrity of the superficial epithelium, decreased the density of microvilli, and compromised the corneal epithelial barrier intactness. RNA-seq revealed 667 differentially expressed genes, and functional analysis highlighted the enhancement of several biological processes such as antioxidant activity and the response to oxidative stress. Moreover, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis showed that glutathione metabolism and drug metabolism cytochrome P450 were the most relevant pathways contributing to the effects of CSE on the corneal epithelium. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis illustrated that GCLC, NQO1, and HMOX1 were the most relevant nodes. In conclusion, the present study indicates that CSE exposure induces changes in the phenotype and genotype of the corneal epithelium. The antioxidant response element is essential for counteracting the effects of cigarette smoke on this tissue layer. These results shed novel insights into how cigarette smoke damages this ocular surface.

An Insight into Anti-Inflammatory Activities and Inflammation Related Diseases of Anthocyanins: A Review of Both In Vivo and In Vitro Investigations

Anthocyanin is a type of flavonoid pigment widely present in fruits and vegetables. It can not only be used as natural pigment, but also has a variety of health functions, for instance, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and neuroprotective activities. Persistent proinflammatory status is a major factor in the development, progression, and complications of chronic diseases. Not surprisingly, there are thus many food ingredients that can potentially affect inflammation related diseases and many studies have shown that anthocyanins play an important role in inflammatory pathways. In this paper, the inflammation related diseases (such as, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer) of anthocyanins are introduced, and the anti-inflammatory effect of anthocyanins is emphatically introduced. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of anthocyanins is elaborated from the aspects of NF-κB, toll like receptor, MAPKs, NO, and ROS and the main efficacy of anthocyanins in inflammation and related diseases is determined. In conclusion, this review aims to get a clear insight into the role of anthocyanins in inflammation related diseases.

Biomarkers of geroprotection and cardiovascular health: An overview of omics studies and established clinical biomarkers in the context of diet

The slowdown, inhibition, or reversal of age-related decline (as a composite of disease, dysfunction, and, ultimately, death) by diet or natural compounds can be defined as dietary geroprotection. While there is no single reliable biomarker to judge the effects of dietary geroprotection, biomarker signatures based on omics (epigenetics, gene expression, microbiome composition) are promising candidates. Recently, omic biomarkers started to supplement established clinical ones such as lipid profiles and inflammatory cytokines. In this review, we focus on human data. We first summarize the current take on genetic biomarkers based on epidemiological studies. However, most of the remaining biomarkers that we describe, whether omics-based or clinical, are related to intervention studies. Then, because of their promising potential in the context of dietary geroprotection, we focus on the effects of berry-based interventions, which up to now have been mostly described employing clinical markers. We provide an aggregation and tabulation of all the recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses that we could find related to this topic. Finally, we present evidence for the importance of the "nutribiography," that is, the influence that an individual's history of diet and natural compound consumption can have on the effects of dietary geroprotection.

Targeting Inflammation by Anthocyanins as the Novel Therapeutic Potential for Chronic Diseases: An Update

Low-grade chronic inflammation (LGCI) and oxidative stress act as cooperative and synergistic partners in the pathogenesis of a wide variety of diseases. Polyphenols, including anthocyanins, are involved in regulating the inflammatory state and activating the endogenous antioxidant defenses. Anthocyanins' effects on inflammatory markers are promising and may have the potential to exert an anti-inflammatory effect in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, translating these research findings into clinical practice would effectively contribute to the prevention and treatment of chronic disease. The present narrative review summarizes the results of clinical studies from the last 5 years in the context of the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative role of anthocyanins in both health and disease. There is evidence to indicate that anthocyanins supplementation in the regulation of pro-inflammatory markers among the healthy and chronic disease population. Although the inconsistencies between the result of randomized control trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses were also observed. Regarding anthocyanins' effects on inflammatory markers, there is a need for long-term clinical trials allowing for the quantifiable progression of inflammation. The present review can help clinicians and other health care professionals understand the importance of anthocyanins use in patients with chronic diseases.

Anoctamin1 Induces Hyperproliferation of HaCaT Keratinocytes and Triggers Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Skin Injury in Mice

Psoriasis, a long-lasting and multifactorial skin disease, is related to comorbidities such as metabolic disease, depression, and psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis occurs due to a variety of factors including keratinocyte hyperproliferation, inflammation, and abnormal differentiation. Proinflammatory cytokines upregulated by increased activation of keratinocytes and immune cells in the skin trigger progression of psoriasis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of anoctamin1 (ANO1) on psoriasis development in vitro and in vivo. We analyzed the proliferation of HaCaT keratinocytes and ANO1-related ERK and AKT signaling pathways after ANO1 inhibitor (T16Ainh-A01 and Ani9) treatment and knock-down of ANO1. Furthermore, after applying imiquimod (IMQ) cream or coapplying IMQ cream and T16Ainh-A01 on mouse ears, we not only observed psoriatic symptoms, including ear thickening, but also quantified the effects of treatment on ERK and AKT signaling-involved proteins and proinflammatory cytokines. Inhibition of ANO1 attenuated the proliferation of HaCaT cells and induced reduction of pERK1/2. Coapplication of IMQ and T16Ainh-A01 on ears of mice reduced not only symptoms of IMQ-induced psoriasis such as thickening and erythema, but also expression of ANO1 and pERK1/2 compared to that of application of IMQ alone. In addition, the expression levels of IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-22, IL-23, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α increased after applying IMQ and were significantly reduced by coapplying IMQ and T16Ainh-A01. These results aid in understanding the underlying mechanisms of ANO1 in epidermal layer keratinocyte hyperproliferation and suggest the potential of ANO1 as a target to treat psoriasis.

Anthocyanin-Related Pigments: Natural Allies for Skin Health Maintenance and Protection

Human skin is commonly described as a particularly dynamic and complex environment, with a physiological balance continuously orchestrated by numerous internal and external factors. Intrinsic aging, exposure to UV radiation and skin pathogens are some of the key players that account for dermatological alterations and ailments. In this regard, this study intended to explore the potential skin-health beneficial properties of a group of molecules belonging to the anthocyanin family: cyanidin- and malvidin-3-O-glucosides and some of their structurally related pigments, resulting in a library of compounds with different structural properties and color hues. The inclusion of both purified compounds and crude extracts provided some insights into their distinctive effects when tested as individual agents or as part of multicomponent mixtures. Overall, most of the compounds were found to reduce biofilm production by S. aureus and P. aeruginosa reference strains, exhibit UV-filter capacity, attenuate the production of reactive oxygen species in human skin keratinocytes and fibroblasts and also showed inhibitory activity of skin-degrading enzymes, in the absence of cytotoxic effects. Carboxypyranocyanidin-3-O-glucoside stood out for its global performance which, combined with its greater structural stability, makes this a particular interesting compound for potential incorporation in topical formulations. Results provide strong evidence of the skin protective effects of these pigments, supporting their further application for cosmeceutical purposes.

Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins play the roles of radioprotection on Normal Lung and radiosensitization on Lung Cancer via differential regulation of the MAPK Signaling Pathway

Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) is a common serious complication and dose-limiting factor caused by radiotherapy for lung cancer. This study was to investigate radioprotective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSP) on normal lung as well as radiosensitizing effects on lung cancer. In vitro, we demonstrated radioprotective effects of GSP on normal alveolar epithelial cells (MLE-12 and BEAS/2B) and radiosensitizing effects on lung cancer cells (LLC and A549). In vivo, we confirmed these two-way effects in tumor-bearing mice. The results showed that GSP inhibited tumor growth, and played a synergistic killing effect with radiotherapy on lung cancer. Meanwhile, GSP reduced radiation damage to normal lung tissues. The two-way effects related to the differential regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway by GSP on normal lung and lung cancer. Moreover, GSP regulated secretion of cytokines IL-6 and IFN-γ and expression of p53 and Ki67 on normal lung and lung cancer. Our findings suggest that GSP is expected to be an ideal radioprotective drug for lung cancer patients who are treated with radiotherapy.

Agonism of Gpr40 Protects the Capacities of Epidermal Stem Cells (ESCs) Against Ultraviolet-B (UV-B)

Introduction

Skin damage due to overexposure to ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiation can lead to the development of cancers and reduce the skin's functionality as a vital protective barrier. Epidermal stem cells (ESCs) are pluripotent cells responsible for skin regeneration and healing. Upon exposure to UV-B radiation, ESCs produce excess amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokines. However, the functional protection of ESCs is not fully explored. G-protein coupled G protein-coupled receptor 40 (Gpr40) is a free fatty acid receptor that is emerging as a potential treatment target for various diseases. Gpr40 has been found to be expressed in various cell types.

Methods

ESCs were exposed to UV-B at the intensities of 25, 50, and 100 mJ/cm² for 24 h using TL 20 W/12 RS UV lamps. ESCs were treated with UV-B at 50 mJ/cm² in the presence or absence of 25 or 50 µM of the Gpr40 agonist GW9508 for 24 h. The gene expression of the Wnt1 pathway and proinflammatory cytokines were evaluated. To antagonize Gpr40 expression, ESCs were treated with 10 µM GW1100.

Results

Our findings demonstrate that Gpr40 agonism can reduce the production of ROS as well as the expression of interleukins 1β and 8, two key proinflammatory cytokines. We demonstrate that agonism of Gpr40 can rescue the reduction in integrin β1 and Krt19 induced by UV-B exposure, thereby improving the capacities of ESCs to resist UV-B damage. Moreover, we show that the effects of Gpr40 agonism observed in our experiments are mediated through the Wnt/β-catenin canonical signaling pathway, as evidenced by the expression of Wnt1 and cyclin D1.

Conclusion

Our findings present evidence of the role of Gpr40 agonism in mediating the protective capacities of ESCs against insult from UV-B radiation.

Extracts of Peanut Skins as a Source of Bioactive Compounds: Methodology and Applications

Peanut skins are a waste product of the peanut processing industry with little commercial value. They are also significant sources of the polyphenolic compounds that are noted for their bioactivity. The extraction procedures for these compounds range from simple single solvent extracts to sophisticated separation schemes to isolate and identify the large range of compounds present. To take advantage of the bioactivities attributed to the polyphenols present, a range of products both edible and nonedible containing peanut skin extracts have been developed. This review presents the range of studies to date that are dedicated to extracting these compounds from peanut skins and their various applications.

Persimmon oligomeric proanthocyanidins alleviate ultraviolet B-induced skin damage by regulating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses

Skin damage can be induced by excessive ultraviolet B (UV-B) irradiation. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective activity of persimmon oligo-proanthocyanidins (P-OPC) against UV-B induced human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT cells) and skin damage and its underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. P-OPC was shown to inhibit the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by UVB radiation in both HaCaT cells and mouse skin tissues by increasing the activity of the antioxidant enzyme system [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione (GSH)]. Furthermore, P-OPC was found to suppress cell apoptosis and the production of inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, and IL-6. Overall, P-OPC could protect skin tissues from UV-B-induced damage by suppressing oxidant stress, acute inflammation, and cell apoptosis via regulating MAPK and NF-κB signalling pathways. These results indicate the potential of P-OPC as a photochemo-protective agent against UV-B induced skin damage.

An Anthocyanin-Enriched Extract from Vaccinium uliginosum Improves Signs of Skin Aging in UVB-Induced Photodamage

Accumulating evidence indicates that botanical extracts affect skin biophysical parameters, such as hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), melanin index, erythema index, and wrinkle development. Vaccinium uliginosum extract contains a high level of anthocyanins as antioxidant and is ideal for use in dietary skin care products. Here, we assessed the photoprotective effects of dietary V. uliginosum extract in ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated hairless mice. Quantitative analysis of anthocyanin composition in the ethanol-extracted V. uliginosum sample was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Skin parameter analysis and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining were conducted on skin samples from UVB-irradiated hairless mice to evaluate the effects of V. uliginosum extract on skin conditions. In addition, skin mRNA and protein expression were assessed to characterize the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of the anthocyanin-enriched extract on skin appearance and condition. Administration of the ethanol-extracted V. uliginosum sample caused significant changes in skin water-holding capacity, TEWL, wrinkle-related parameters, and epidermal thickness in UVB-irradiated hairless mice. In addition, oral administration of V. uliginosum attenuated the gene expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and increased levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) and antioxidant-related genes. Further, V. uliginosum administration downregulated inflammatory cytokine levels and UVB-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signaling regulated kinase (ERK), as well as Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 protein levels. Oral administration of anthocyanin-enriched V. uliginosum extract can improve the appearance and condition of the skin following UV irradiation.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside Protects Lens Epithelial Cells against High Glucose-Induced Apoptosis and Prevents Cataract Formation via Suppressing NF-κB Activation and Cox-2 Expression

Diabetic cataract is one of the most important causes of blindness worldwide. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is found to exert beneficial effects on many diabetic complications. However, its effect on diabetic cataract is not well known. Herein, we investigated the effect of C3G on high glucose-induced lens epithelial cell (SRA01/04) apoptosis and cataract formation as well as the involved mechanisms. We found C3G (20 μM) could preserve cell viability in SRA01/04 cells exposed to high glucose (100 μM). Meanwhile, C3G inhibited SRA01/04 cell apoptosis and regulated the Bcl-2/Bax ratio. Additionally, C3G suppressed NF-κB activation and subsequent cyclooxygenases-2 (Cox-2) expression, which are associated with the protection against apoptosis. Moreover, C3G attenuated lens opacity and protein aggregation in lens culture exposed to high glucose. In conclusion, C3G protected against high glucose-induced SRA01/04 cell apoptosis and cataract formation, which indicated the potential protection of anthocyanins on diabetic cataract.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Anthocyanins of Trifolium pratense (Red Clover) in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW-267.4 Macrophages

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) possesses various dietary compounds that improve human health. However, the functions of anthocyanins in red clover remain unclear. Here we examined anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of red clover extract (RC) and red clover anthocyanins fraction (RCA) using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 macrophages and identified dietary compounds. RC and RCA suppressed LPS-induced expression of genes such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α, interleukin (IL)1β, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)1, and cyclooxygenase (COX)2. LPS-stimulated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production also was prevented by both RC and RCA. NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX1) gene and phosphorylation of p47^phox of NOX1 that were increased by LPS were inhibited in the cells treated with RCA. LPS-stimulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) gene expression and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) subunit p65 were suppressed together with reduced iNOS and COX2 proteins by RCA. Additionally, 27 polyphenols and 7 anthocyanins from RC were identified and quantified. In conclusion, RC, especially RCA, exerted anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities in vitro by regulating NF-κB and NRF2 signaling pathways, suggesting that anthocyanins in red clover are the potential candidates to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.