Skin-Lightening Effect of a Polyphenol Extract from Acerola ( Malpighia emarginata DC.) Fruit on UV-Induced Pigmentation

Compound collagen peptide powder improves skin photoaging by reducing oxidative stress and activating TGF-β1/Smad pathway

Fish collagen peptide (FCP) has been extensively investigated as a natural product that can combat photoaging; however, its efficacy is limited by its singular composition. Compound collagen peptide powder (CCPP) is a novel functional food formulation that exhibits photoprotective properties and comprises FCP and a blend of natural botanical ingredients. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of CCPP and its molecular mechanism. CCPP had a low molecular weight, facilitating its efficient absorption, and was abundant in amino acids, total polyphenols, and total flavonoids. The results of in vivo studies demonstrated that CCPP exhibited significant efficacy in reducing skin wrinkles, enhancing the contents of water and oil in the skin, and ameliorating histopathological alterations in mice. The results of in vitro studies demonstrated that CCPP effectively mitigated photoaging in human skin fibroblasts by attenuating oxidative stress and promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis. Moreover, we clearly demonstrated that the TGF β1/Smad pathway was involved in the promotion of ECM synthesis and cell proliferation by CCPP in human skin fibroblasts. These findings suggest that, compared with single collagen, CCPP has a more comprehensive range of antiphotoaging properties.

Polyphenols: Secondary Metabolites with a Biological Impression

Polyphenols are natural compounds which are plant-based bioactive molecules, and have been the subject of growing interest in recent years. Characterized by multiple varieties, polyphenols are mostly found in fruits and vegetables. Currently, many diseases are waiting for a cure or a solution to reduce their symptoms. However, drug or other chemical strategies have limitations for using a treatment agent or still detection tool of many diseases, and thus researchers still need to investigate preventive or improving treatment. Therefore, it is of interest to elucidate polyphenols, their bioactivity effects, supplementation, and consumption. The disadvantage of polyphenols is that they have a limited bioavailability, although they have multiple beneficial outcomes with their bioactive roles. In this context, several different strategies have been developed to improve bioavailability, particularly liposomal and nanoparticles. As nutrition is one of the most important factors in improving health, the inclusion of plant-based molecules in the daily diet is significant and continues to be enthusiastically researched. Nutrition, which is important for individuals of all ages, is the key to the bioactivity of polyphenols.

Petanin Potentiated JNK Phosphorylation to Negatively Regulate the ERK/CREB/MITF Signaling Pathway for Anti-Melanogenesis in Zebrafish

Petanin, an acylated anthocyanin from the Solanaceae family, shows potential in tyrosinase inhibitory activity and anti-melanogenic effects; however, its mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, to investigate the underlying mechanism of petanin's anti-melanogenic effects, the enzyme activity, protein expression and mRNA transcription of melanogenic and related signaling pathways in zebrafish using network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were combined for analysis. The results showed that petanin could inhibit tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis, change the distribution and arrangement of melanocytes and the structure of melanosomes, reduce the activities of catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) and enhance the activity of glutathione reductase (GR). It also up-regulated JNK phosphorylation, inhibited ERK/RSK phosphorylation and down-regulated CREB/MITF-related protein expression and mRNA transcription. These results were consistent with the predictions provided through network pharmacology and molecular docking. Thus, petanin could inhibit the activity of tyrosinase and the expression of tyrosinase by inhibiting and negatively regulating the tyrosinase-related signaling pathway ERK/CREB/MITF through p-JNK. In conclusion, petanin is a good tyrosinase inhibitor and anti-melanin natural compound with significant market prospects in melanogenesis-related diseases and skin whitening cosmetics.

Encapsulation of W/O/W Acerola Emulsion by Spray Drying: Optimization, Release Kinetics, and Storage Stability

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is a sub-tropical and tropical fruit renowned for its high levels of vitamin C and phenolic compounds, which offer health benefits. This study aimed to optimize the spray drying process by determining the inlet and outlet temperatures using response surface methodology (RSM) with the central composite design. Additionally, it aimed to evaluate the release kinetics in the hydrophilic food simulation environment and the stability of the resulting powder under various storage temperatures. The RSM method determined the optimal inlet and outlet temperatures as 157 °C and 91 °C, respectively. High-accuracy prediction equations (R2 ≥ 0.88) were developed for moisture content (3.02%), process yield (91.15%), and the encapsulation yield of total polyphenol content (61.44%), total flavonoid content (37.42%), and vitamin C (27.19%), with a predicted monolayer moisture content below 4.01%, according to the BET equation. The powder exhibited good dissolution characteristics in the acidic hydrophilic food simulation environment and showed greater stability when stored at 10 °C for 30 days, compared to storage at 35 °C and 45 °C.

A Review: Pharmacological Effect of Natural Compounds in Diospyros kaki Leaves from the Perspective of Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant levels. Current research suggests that oxidative stress is one of the key factors in the development of many chronic diseases, and it has been a concern for many years. Many natural compounds have been studied for their special free-radical-scavenging properties. The major chemical constituents of the leaves of Diospyros kaki are flavonoids and triterpenoids, both of which are potential antioxidants that can prevent damage caused by reactive oxygen species or reactive nitrogen species and ameliorate diseases associated with oxidative stress. In addition to the major constituents such as flavonoids and triterpenoids, the leaves of Diospyros kaki include compounds such as phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and terpenes. Studies have shown these compounds have certain antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. Experiments have shown that flavonoids or the extracts from the leaves of Diospyros kaki have a variety of good pharmacological activities, which could activate oxidative stress and mitochondrial apoptosis, inhibit the proliferation of human prostate cancer cells and induce apoptosis. It also could achieve the effect of anti-cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis by regulating oxidative stress. The main chemical substance of the leaves of Diospyros kaki regulating oxidative stress may be these multi-hydroxyl structure compounds. These natural products exhibit significant antioxidant activity and are an important basis for the leaves of Diospyros kaki to treat human diseases by regulating oxidative stress. This review summarizes the structural types of natural products in the leaves of Diospyros kaki and elaborates the mechanism of the leaves of Diospyros kaki in neuroprotection, anti-diabetes, renal protection, retinal degenerative diseases, and anti-cancer from a new perspective of oxidative stress, including how it supplements other pharmacological effects. The chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of the leaves of Diospyros kaki are summarized in this paper. The relationship between the chemical components in the leaves of Diospyros kaki and their pharmacological effects is summarized from the perspective of oxidative stress. This review provides a reference for the study of natural anti-oxidative stress drugs.

Natural polyphenols: a promising bioactive compounds for skin care and cosmetics

The physiological and morphological aspects of skin suffer from frequent change. Numerous internal and external factors have direct impact on inducing various skin problems like inflammation, aging, cancer, oxidative stress, hyperpigmentation etc. The use of plant polyphenols as a photo-ecting agent is gaining popularity nowadays. Polyphenols are known to enhance endogenic antioxidant system of skin thereby preventing various skin diseases. The biological activity of plant polyphenols is dependent on their physicochemical properties for overcoming the epidermal barriers to reach the specific receptor. Several evidences have reported the vital role polyphenols in mitigating adverse skin problems and reverting back the healthy skin condition. The interest in plant derived skin care products is emerging due to the changing notion of people to shift their focus towards use of plant-based products. The present review draws an attention to uncover the protective role of polyphenols in prevention of various skin problems. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have been summarized that claims the efficacious nature of plant extract having dermatological significance.

Chinese women with melasma exhibit a low minimal erythema dose to both UVA and UVB

BACKGROUND

Melasma is a common disorder manifested by symmetric hyperpigmentation of sun-exposed skin. Although ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known risk factor of melasma, whether skin sensitivities to UVA and/or UVB differ between healthy controls and female patients with melasma is unknown.

METHODS

Minimal erythema dose (MED)-UVA and MED-UVB results were compared between female patients with melasma and healthy controls. Additionally, relationships between MED values and Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scores, and skin color were assessed.

RESULTS

The melasma and control groups included 142 and 137 subjects, respectively. Compared with healthy control group, our melasma group had lower MED-UVA (P < .001) and MED-UVB (P < .05). MASI scores were negatively correlated with MED-UVA and MED-UVB (P < .001). Additionally, Skin a* values in melasma-involved skin were negatively correlated with MED-UVA (P < .05). Skin b* values in melasma-involved skin were negatively correlated with MED-UVB and MED-UVA (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with melasma exhibit a low MED to both UVA and UVB, rendering them have a predisposition to an increased UV sensitivity. Because of the association between melasma and UV sensitivity, sun exposure should be avoided to alleviate or prevent melasma.

Effect of Vitamin C Source on Its Stability during Storage and the Properties of Milk Fermented by Lactobacillus rhamnosus

The enrichment of commonly consumed foods with bioactive components might be helpful in promoting health and reducing the risk of disease, so the enrichment of probiotic fermented milk with vitamin C can be considered appropriate. The effect of vitamin C addition depends on the source of origin (rosehip, acerola and ascorbic acid in powder form) on the growth and survival of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and the quality of fermented milk on the 1st and 21st day of storage was analyzed. The pH, total acidity, vitamin C, syneresis, color, texture profile and numbers of bacterial cells in fermented milk were determined. The organoleptic evaluation was also performed. The degradation of vitamin C in milk was shown to depend on its source. The lowest reduction of vitamin C was determined in milk with rosehip. The least stable was vitamin C naturally found in control milk. The addition of rosehip and acerola decreased syneresis and lightness of milk color, increasing the yellow and red color proportion. In contrast, milk with ascorbic acid was the lightest during the whole experimental period and was characterized by a very soft gel. The growth of Lactobacillus rhamnosus during fermentation was most positively affected by the addition of rosehip. However, the best survival of Lactobacillus rhamnosus was demonstrated in milk with acerola. On the 21st day of storage, the number of L. rhamnosus cells in the control milk and the milk with vitamin C was >8 log cfu g⁻¹, so these milks met the criterion of therapeutic minimum. According to the assessors, the taste and odor contributed by the addition of rosehip was the most intense of all the vitamin C sources used in the study.

Plant Polyphenols: Natural and Potent UV-Protective Agents for the Prevention and Treatment of Skin Disorders

Nowadays, destructive and immunosuppressive effects from long-term exposure to UV radiation have been fully investigated and documented in the literature. UV radiation is known as the main cause of skin aging and carcinogenesis. Hence, skin protection against anti-oxidative and immunosuppressive processes is highly in demand. Now, plant polyphenols have been found as a versatile and natural tool for the prevention and treatment of various skin diseases. The presence of a large number of hydroxyl groups in the cyclic structure of polyphenols has induced valuable biological activities. Among them, their UV protective activity has attracted lots of attention due to promising efficacy and simple instruction to use.

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.

Phytochemicals and Enzyme Inhibitory Capacities of the Methanolic Extracts from the Italian Apple Cultivar Mela Rosa dei Monti Sibillini

The phytochemical profile of the methanolic extracts (pulp and peel) obtained from two dehydration methods (drying and freeze-lyophilization) of the traditional Italian apple Mela Rosa dei Monti Sibillini, as well as their inhibitory properties against some biological enzymes (α-glucosidase, lipase, monoamine oxidase A, tyrosinase and acetylcholinesterase) were assessed in this study. HPLC-DAD-MS technique was used for the determination of polyphenolic and triterpenic compounds. The determination of the enzymes inhibitory effect was made through spectrophotometric techniques. The peel extracts were richer in bioactive compounds than the pulp. In this regard, the extracts from freeze-lyophilization displayed higher levels of flavan-3-ols, flavonol glycosides and dihydrochalcones. However, the extracts obtained from dried material displayed a stronger enzyme inhibition. Notably, the peel extracts showed a higher activity than the pulp ones, especially in terms of α-glucosidase whereby some samples exerted a similar enzymatic inhibition than acarbose (100% inhibition) at high concentrations (1 mg/mL). These results encourage thus further studies on this traditional Italian apple as a potential source of nutraceuticals helpful to prevent the insurgence of some pathologies.

Zweigelt and Niagara skin extracts suppress cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer formation due to UV irradiation in NHEK cells: first attempt

The grape skins after pressing the juice are a major problem for winery. However, because it contains a large amount of polyphenols, development of effective usages are expected to construct sustainable waste use. In this study, we examined whether grape skin extract is effective for recovery of DNA damage caused by UV irradiation. Extract from Zweigelt and Niagara skin was prepared by methanol, and UV irradiation was performed at 10 mJ/cm² (250 nm) and 15 mJ/cm² (290 nm) using human normal skin cells. As results, the decreased cell viability due to UV irradiation was improved by adding Niagara or Zweigelt skin extract. On the other hand, cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer production due to UV irradiation decreased significantly by Niagara or Zweigelt extract. In addition, the effects of grape skin extracts on the expression of sirtuin gene were also examined.

A Combination of Pharmacophore and Docking-based Virtual Screening to Discover new Tyrosinase Inhibitors

Melanogenesis controls the formation of melanin pigment whose overproduction is related to various hyperpigmentary disorders in humans. Tyrosinase is a type-3 copper enzyme involved in the rate limiting step of melanin synthesis, therefore its inhibition could represent an efficient way for the development of depigmenting agents. In this work, a combination of pharmacophore and docking-based studies has been employed to screen two in-house 3D compound databases containing about 2,000 molecules from natural and synthetic sources. As result we selected two "hit compounds" which proved to inhibit tyrosinase activity showing IC₅₀ values in the micromolar range.

Skin Lightening Effect of the Dietary Intake of Citrus Peel Extract Against UV-Induced Pigmentation

Recent studies revealed that citrus peel has beneficial effects in various disorders associated with nitric oxide and/or oxidative stress. In this study, we investigated the effects of Jeju citrus ( Citrus unshiu) peel using various in vitro and in vivo methods. First, the inhibitory effect of citrus peel extract (CPE) on enzymatic activity of tyrosinase was evaluated. Tyrosinase activity was dose-dependently decreased by CPE. Second, the effect of CPE on melanogenesis was determined by measuring the melanin content in melan-a cells. The inhibitory effect of CPE on melanin synthesis was greater than that of vitamin C. Finally, the effect of long-term supplementation with CPE on ultraviolet B-induced skin pigmentation was examined in guinea pigs. Administration of CPE improved Δ L-value compared with the nontreated ultraviolet control group. As a strong inhibitor of melanogenesis, CPE could be used as a depigmentation agent and a supplement for skin lightening.

The Potential of Using Bee Pollen in Cosmetics: a Review

During ancient times in China, bee pollen was used for skin whitening and beauty. Around 70% of substances in bee pollen are biologically active, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and fatty acids, phenolic compounds, vitamins and bioelements.This review describes the cosmeceutical properties of bee pollen and the mechanism of its active components action, its beneficial influence on human skin. As a natural bee product, bee pollen may effectively enhance protective mechanisms against skin aging, skin dryness, ultraviolet B radiation, oxidative damage, inflammatory and melanogenesis, which are involved in a wide range of negative effects on human skin, thus they have attracted attention for health and cosmetic applications.

Acerola, an untapped functional superfruit: a review on latest frontiers

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is one of the richest natural sources of ascorbic acid and contains a plethora of phytonutrients like carotenoids phenolics, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. There is an upsurge of interest in this fruit among the scientific community and pharmaceutical companies over the last few years. The fruit contains an exorbitant amount of ascorbic acid in the range of 1500-4500 mg/100 g, which is around 50-100 times than that of orange or lemon. Having a reservoir of phytonutrients, the fruit exhibits high antioxidant capacity and several interesting biofunctional properties like skin whitening effect, anti-aging and multidrug resistant reversal activity. Countries like Brazil, realizing the potential of the fruit have started to exploit it commercially and have established a structured agro-industrial based market. In spite of possessing an enriched nutrient profile with potent "functional food" appeal, acerola is underutilized in large part of the globe and demands greater attention. A comprehensive literature analysis was carried out with reference to the latest frontiers on the compositional characteristics of the fruit. Emphasis has been given on newer dimensions of functional aspects of ascorbic acid and allied work and pectin and pectin methylesterase. The range of nutraceutical phytonutrients present in acerola and their biofunctional properties has been discussed. Recent advances in the value addition of the fruit highlighting the use of techniques like filtration, encapsulation, ultrasound, sonication, etc. are also elaborated. Furthermore, the potential use of acerola pulp in edible films and waste utilization for development of valuable byproducts has been highlighted.

Isolation of proanthocyanidins from red wine, and their inhibitory effects on melanin synthesis in vitro

The red wines made from Vitis vinifera were identified as skin-whitening effectors by using in vitro assays. OPCs in the wine were evaluated for tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis. Strong tyrosinase inhibitory activity was observed in fractions with high oligomeric proanthocyanidin (OPC) content. Among OPC dimers, a strong inhibitory effect on tyrosinase was observed with OPCs which contain (+)-catechin as an upper unit. Melanogenesis inhibitory effect was observed with OPCs which have (-)-epicatechin as upper units. Also, OPC trimers, upper and middle units joined with 4 → 8 bonds, showed stronger effects compared to trimers with 4 → 6 linkages. Interestingly, (-)-epicatechin-(4β → 8)-(-)-epicatechin 3-O-gallate, which is a unique component of grapes has potent inhibitory effects on both tyrosinase and melanogenesis. Our data provide structural information about such active compounds. These results suggest that red wines containing OPC, have high melanogenesis inhibitory effect and are supposed to have skin-whitening effect.

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) Juice Intake Suppresses UVB-Induced Skin Pigmentation in SMP30/GNL Knockout Hairless Mice

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is a fruit that is known to contain high amounts of ascorbic acid (AA) and various phytochemicals. We have previously reported that AA deficiency leads to ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced skin pigmentation in senescence marker protein 30 (SMP30)/gluconolactonase (GNL) knockout (KO) hairless mice. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of acerola juice (AJ) intake on the skin of UVB-irradiated SMP30/GNL KO mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Five-week old hairless mice were given drinking water containing physiologically sufficient AA (1.5 g/L) [AA (+)], no AA [AA (-)] or 1.67% acerola juice [AJ]. All mice were exposed to UVB irradiation for 6 weeks. UVB irradiation was performed three times per week. The dorsal skin color and stratum corneum water content were measured every weekly, and finally, the AA contents of the skin was determined. The skin AA and stratum corneum water content was similar between the AA (+) and AJ groups. The L* value of the AA (+) group was significantly decreased by UVB irradiation, whereas AJ intake suppressed the decrease in the L* value throughout the experiment. Moreover, in the AJ group, there was a significant decrease in the expression level of dopachrome tautomerase, an enzyme that is involved in melanin biosynthesis.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that AJ intake is effective in suppressing UVB-induced skin pigmentation by inhibiting melanogenesis-related genes.

Anti-Melanogenic Activities of Heracleum moellendorffii via ERK1/2-Mediated MITF Downregulation

In this study, the anti-melanogenic effects of Heracleum moellendorffii Hance extract (HmHe) and the mechanisms through which it inhibits melanogenesis in melan-a cells were investigated. Mushroom tyrosinase (TYR) activity and melanin content as well as cellular tyrosinase activity were measured in the cells. mRNA and protein expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase (TYR), TYR-related protein-1 (TYRP-1) and -2 were also examined. The results demonstrate that treatment with HmHe significantly inhibits mushroom tyrosinase activity. Furthermore, HmHe also markedly inhibits melanin production and intracellular tyrosinase activity. By suppressing the expression of TYR, TYRP-1, TYRP-2, and MITF, HmHe treatment antagonized melanin production in melan-a cells. Additionally, HmHe interfered with the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, with reversal of HmHe-induced melanogenesis inhibition after treatment with specific inhibitor U0126. In summary, HmHe can be said to stimulate ERK1/2 phosphorylation and subsequent degradation of MITF, resulting in suppression of melanogenic enzymes and melanin production, possibly due to the presence of polyphenolic compounds.

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) leaves: a review on traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) leaves, known as Shi Ye (in Chinese), have a long history as a Chinese traditional medicine for the treatment of ischemia stroke, angina, internal hemorrhage, hypertension, atherosclerosis and some infectious diseases, etc. Additionally, persimmon leaves could be used as healthy products, cosmetics and so on, which have become increasingly popular in Asia, such as Japan, Korea and China etc.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The present paper reviewed the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, analytical methods, biological activities and toxicology of persimmon leaves in order to assess the ethnopharmacological use and to explore therapeutic potentials and future opportunities for research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on persimmon leaves were gathered via the Internet (using Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, Elsevier, ACS, Pudmed, Web of Science, CNKI and EMBASE) and libraries. Additionally, information was also obtained from some local books.

RESULTS

Persimmon leaves have played an important role in Chinese system of medicines. The main compositions of persimmon leaves were flavonoids, terpenoids, etc. Scientific studies on extracts and formulations revealed a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as, antioxidative, hypolipidemic, antidiabetic, antibacterial, hemostasis activities and effects on cardiovascular system. Based on the pharmacological activities, persimmon leaves were widely used in clinic including treatment of cardiovascular disease, hemostasis, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and beauty treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Persimmon leaves probably have therapeutic potential in the prevention and treatment for cerebral arteriosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension. It showed significant neuroprotection against ischemia/reperfusion injury in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, it can regulate immune function and inhibite inflammation. Further investigations are needed to explore individual bioactive compounds responsible for these pharmacological effects in vitro and in vivo and the mode of actions. Further safety assessments and clinical trials should be performed before it can be integrated into medicinal practices.

In vitro techniques to assess the proficiency of skin care cosmetic formulations

Cosmetics comprising either natural or synthetic components are used almost regularly and universally in different forms to enhance the beauty. The utmost disclosure of human membrane to sunlight and environmental pollution results in the exhibition of free radical, that react with deoxyribonucleic acid, proteins and fatty acids, causation oxidative destruction dysfunction of the antioxidant system. In skin, the formation of reactive oxygen species leads to skin diseases, predominantly cutaneous malignancies, immunosuppression, wrinkles, aging, etc., The human organism fosters a barrier practice against the destructive action of free radicals, comprising mostly of vitamins, carotenoids and enzymes. Cosmetic products are the best option to reduce skin disorders such as hyper pigmentation, skin aging, skin wrinkling and rough skin texture, etc., Hence in this review, we conferred various in vitro methods that are used for the development of novel cosmetic formulation. There is an expanding fascinate employing in vitro techniques because they are less time consuming, more cost-effective and lessen the participation of human volunteers.

In Silico Insight into Potent of Anthocyanin Regulation of FKBP52 to Prevent Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is caused by the hyperphosphorylation of Tau protein aggregation. FKBP52 (FK506 binding protein 52) has been found to inhibit Tau protein aggregation. This study found six different kinds of anthocyanins that have high binding potential. After analyzing the docking positions, hydrophobic interactions, and hydrogen bond interactions, several amino acids were identified that play important roles in protein and ligand interaction. The proteins' variation is described using eigenvectors and the distance between the amino acids during a molecular dynamics simulation (MD). This study investigates the three loops based around Glu85, Tyr113, and Lys121-all of which are important in inducing FKBP52 activation. By performing a molecular dynamic simulation process between unbound proteins and the protein complex with FK506, it was found that ligand targets that docked onto the FK1 domain will decrease the distance between Glu85/Tyr113 and Glu85/Lys121. The FKBP52 structure variation may induce FKBP52 activation and inhibit Tau protein aggregation. The results indicate that anthocyanins might change the conformation of FKBP52 during binding. In addition, the purple anthocyanins, such as cyanidin-3-glucoside and malvidin-3-glucoside, might be better than FK506 in regulating FKBP52 and treating Alzheimer's disease.

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) juice intake protects against alterations to proteins involved in inflammatory and lipolysis pathways in the adipose tissue of obese mice fed a cafeteria diet

BACKGROUND

Obesity has been studied as a metabolic and an inflammatory disease and is characterized by increases in the production of pro-inflammatory adipokines in the adipose tissue.To elucidate the effects of natural dietary components on the inflammatory and metabolic consequences of obesity, we examined the effects of unripe, ripe and industrial acerola juice (Malpighia emarginata DC.) on the relevant inflammatory and lipolysis proteins in the adipose tissue of mice with cafeteria diet-induced obesity.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Two groups of male Swiss mice were fed on a standard diet (STA) or a cafeteria diet (CAF) for 13 weeks. Afterwards, the CAF-fed animals were divided into five subgroups, each of which received a different supplement for one further month (water, unripe acerola juice, ripe acerola juice, industrial acerola juice, or vitamin C) by gavage. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, Western blotting, a colorimetric method and histology were utilized to assess the observed data.

RESULTS

The CAF water (control obese) group showed a significant increase in their adiposity indices and triacylglycerol levels, in addition to a reduced IL-10/TNF-α ratio in the adipose tissue, compared with the control lean group. In contrast, acerola juice and Vitamin C intake ameliorated the weight gain, reducing the TAG levels and increasing the IL-10/TNF-α ratio in adipose tissue. In addition, acerola juice intake led to reductions both in the level of phosphorylated JNK and to increases in the phosphorylation of IκBα and HSLser660 in adipose tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results suggest that acerola juice reduces low-grade inflammation and ameliorates obesity-associated defects in the lipolytic processes.

Oral administration of French maritime pine bark extract (Flavangenol(®)) improves clinical symptoms in photoaged facial skin

BACKGROUND

French maritime pine bark extract (PBE) has gained popularity as a dietary supplement in the treatment of various diseases due to its polyphenol-rich ingredients. Oligometric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), a class of bioflavonoid complexes, are enriched in French maritime PBE and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Previous studies have suggested that French maritime PBE helps reduce ultraviolet radiation damage to the skin and may protect human facial skin from symptoms of photoaging. To evaluate the clinical efficacy of French maritime PBE in the improvement of photodamaged facial skin, we conducted a randomized trial of oral supplementation with PBE.

METHODS

One hundred and twelve women with mild to moderate photoaging of the skin were randomized to either a 12-week open trial regimen of 100 mg PBE supplementation once daily or to a parallel-group trial regimen of 40 mg PBE supplementation once daily.

RESULTS

A significant decrease in clinical grading of skin photoaging scores was observed in both time courses of 100 mg daily and 40 mg daily PBE supplementation regimens. A significant reduction in the pigmentation of age spots was also demonstrated utilizing skin color measurements.

CONCLUSION

Clinically significant improvement in photodamaged skin could be achieved with PBE. Our findings confirm the efficacy and safety of PBE.

Photoprotection against the UVB-induced oxidative stress and epidermal damage in mice using leaves of three different varieties of Lepidium meyenii (maca)

BACKGROUND

Skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) B radiation leads to epidermal damage and generation of reactive oxygen species. The photoprotective effect of extracts of three varieties of leaves (red, yellow, and black) from maca (Lepidium meyenii), a plant from the Peruvian highlands, was assessed in mouse skin exposed to UVB radiation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hydroalcoholic extracts of three varieties of maca leaves were applied topically to the dorsal skin of young-adult male mice prior to exposition to UVB radiation.

RESULTS

The three varieties had UVA/UVB absorptive properties and presented antioxidant activity, being highest with red maca, followed by black and yellow maca. The three varieties of maca leaves prevented the development of sunburn cells, epidermal hyperplasia, leukocytic infiltration, and other alterations produced by UVB radiation. Mice treated with black maca showed the highest superoxide dismutase levels, and mice treated with black and yellow maca showed higher catalase levels in skin, whereas red maca protected the skin and liver against significant increases in the lipid peroxidation activity observed in the unprotected animals.

CONCLUSION

The presence of significant antioxidant activity and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation suggest that the observed protection could be partly attributable to this mechanism.

Inhibitory effect of mulberroside A and its derivatives on melanogenesis induced by ultraviolet B irradiation

Mulberroside A was isolated from the ethanol extract of Morus alba roots. The enzymatic hydrolysis of mulberroside A with Pectinex produced oxyresveratrol and oxyresveratrol-3-O-glucoside. We tested oxyresveratrol, oxyresveratrol-3-O-glucoside, and mulberroside A to determine whether they could inhibit ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation-induced melanogenesis in brown guinea pig skin. Topical application of mulberroside A, oxyresveratrol, and oxyresveratrol-3-O-glucoside reduced the pigmentation in guinea pig skin. These compounds suppressed the expression of melanogenic enzymes tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1, and microphthalmia transcription factor. The anti-melanogenesis effect was highest with oxyresveratrol, intermediate with oxyresveratrol-3-O-glucoside, and lowest with mulberroside A. Mulberroside A is a glycosylated stilbene of oxyresveratrol; thus, the deglycosylation of mulberroside A resulted in enhanced inhibition of melanogenesis. Histological analysis with Fontana-Masson staining confirmed that these compounds significantly reduced the melanin content in the epidermis of UVB-irradiated guinea pig skin compared to the vehicle control. Thus, these compounds effectively reduced pigmentation and may be suitable cosmetic agents for skin whitening.

Isolation and tyrosinase inhibitory effects of polyphenols from the leaves of persimmon, Diospyros kaki

The main polyphenols were isolated from the leaves of six selected persimmon cultivars. Seven compounds were obtained by reverse-phase HPLC, and their structures were elucidated by multiple NMR measurements. These compounds are hyperoside, isoquercitrin, trifolin, astragalin, chrysontemin, quercetin-3-O-(2''-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside) (QOG), and kaempferol-3-O-(2''-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside) (KOG). Their inhibitory activity was tested against tyrosinase for the oxidation of L-DOPA, and only chrysontemin showed inhibitory activity. To investigate the differences of their inhibitory effects, the tyrosinase inhibitory activities of their aglycons, cyanidin, quercetin, and kaempferol, were also tested. As a result, it was confirmed that the most influential moiety for tyrosinase inhibition was the 3',4'-dihydroxy groups of the catechol moiety. Moreover, the tyrosinase inhibitory activity of chrysontemin, which was identified in persimmon leaves for the first time, is supported by a simulated model of chrysontemin docking into mushroom tyrosinase.

In vitro responses of fish melanophores to lyophilized extracts of Psoralea corylifolia seeds and pure psoralen

CONTEXT

Psoralens are naturally occurring furanocumarins used in photochemotherapy of several skin diseases. They are obtained from dried ripe fruits of Psoralea corylifolia Linn. (Fabaceae). However, little research has been done to study the melanogenic activity of P. corylifolia seeds and their active ingredients on the pigment cells, the melanophores taking account of their cholinergic activity.

OBJECTIVE

The present work was carried out to determine the effects of lyophilized seed extracts of P. corylifolia, along with pure psoralen on the isolated scale melanophores of Channa punctatus Bloch. (Channidae), which are a disguised type of smooth muscle cells and offer excellent in vitro opportunities for studying the effects of drugs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Effects of lyophilized extracts of P. corylifolia and pure psoralen were studied on the isolated scale melanophores of C. punctatus as per the modified method of Bhattacharya et al. (1976) .

RESULTS

The lyophilized extract of P. corylifolia and its active ingredient psoralen caused significant melanin dispersal responses leading to darkening of the fish scale melanophores, which were completely antagonized by atropine and hyoscine. These melanin dispersal effects were also found to be markedly potentiated by neostigmine, an anticholinesterase agent.

DISCUSSION

In the present study, the lyophilized extract of P. corylifolia seeds and standard psoralen in different dose ranges induced powerful melanin dispersal effects of the previously adrenaline-aggregated isolated scale melanophores of C. punctatus. Comparatively, psoralen caused a more sustained and powerful melanin dispersal within the isolated fish melanophores and interestingly the concentrations required to achieve maximal dispersion of melanophore were 10 times less than that of lyophilized seed extract of P. corylifolia. The physiologically significant dose-related melanin dispersion effects of lyophilized P. corylifolia seeds and synthetic psoralen per se were found to be completely abolished by atropine and hyoscine, which are specific cholino-muscarinic receptor blockers. These data strongly indicate that in the fish C. punctatus, the dispersion of melanin granules within the scale melanophores is mediated by choline receptors of muscarinic nature.

CONCLUSION

It appears that the melanin dispersal effects of the extracts of P. corylifolia and pure psoralen leading to skin darkening are mediated by cholino-muscarinic- or cholino-psoralen-like receptors having similar properties.

Inhibitory effect of rose hip (Rosa canina L.) on melanogenesis in mouse melanoma cells and on pigmentation in brown guinea pigs

The compounds present in rose hips exerting an inhibitory action against melanogenesis in B16 mouse melanoma cells were investigated by dividing an aqueous extract of rose hips (RE) into four fractions. The 50% ethanol eluate from a DIAION HP-20 column significantly reduced the production of melanin and was mainly composed of procyanidin glycosides. We also found that this 50% ethanol eluate reduced the intracellular tyrosinase activity and also had a direct inhibitory effect on tyrosinase obtained as a protein mixture from the melanoma cell lysate. We also investigated the effect of orally administering RE on skin pigmentation in brown guinea pigs, and found that the pigmentation was inhibited together with the tyrosinase activity in the skin. These data collectively suggest that proanthocyanidins from RE inhibited melanogenesis in mouse melanoma cells and guinea pig skin, and could be useful as a skin-whitening agent when taken orally.

Evaluation of glycemic and lipid profile of offspring of diabetic Wistar rats treated with Malpighia emarginata juice

Knowing that maternal diabetes is related to hyperglycemia and fetal hyperinsulinemia, which affect the lipid metabolism, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Malpighia emarginata (acerola) juice on the glycemic and lipid profile of offspring of diabetic and nondiabetic Wistar rats. The adult offspring of non-diabetic dams and of dams with severe streptozotocin-induced diabetes were divided into groups: G1, offspring (of control dams) treated with water, G2, offspring (of diabetic dams) treated with water, G3, male offspring (of control dams) treated with acerola juice, and G4, male offspring (of diabetic dams) treated with acerola juice. The offspring of diabetic dams treated with acerola juice showed significantly decreased levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and increased HDL-c. The use of acerola juice is a potential strategy to aid in the prevention of DM and dyslipidemia and its complications or to act as an auxiliary in the treatment of these diseases.

The hunt for natural skin whitening agents

Skin whitening products are commercially available for cosmetic purposes in order to obtain a lighter skin appearance. They are also utilized for clinical treatment of pigmentary disorders such as melasma or postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Whitening agents act at various levels of melanin production in the skin. Many of them are known as competitive inhibitors of tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanogenesis. Others inhibit the maturation of this enzyme or the transport of pigment granules (melanosomes) from melanocytes to surrounding keratinocytes. In this review we present an overview of (natural) whitening products that may decrease skin pigmentation by their interference with the pigmentary processes.