Clinical Assessment of New Topical Cream Containing Two Essential Oils Combined with Tretinoin in the Treatment of Acne

The Therapeutic Potential of Essential Oils in Managing Inflammatory Skin Conditions: A Scoping Review

Conventional therapy is commonly used for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, but undesirable effects, such as erythema, dryness, skin thinning, and resistance to treatment, may cause poor patient compliance. Therefore, patients may seek complementary treatment with herbal plant products including essential oils (EOs). This scoping review aims to generate a broad overview of the EOs used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, namely, acne vulgaris, dermatitis and eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, in a clinical setting. The quality, efficacy, and safety of various EOs, as well as the way in which they are prepared, are reviewed, and the potential, as well as the limitations, of EOs for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions are discussed. Twenty-nine eligible studies (case studies, uncontrolled clinical studies, and randomized clinical studies) on the applications of EOs for inflammatory skin conditions were retrieved from scientific electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library). As an initial result, tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil emerged as the most studied EO. The clinical studies with tea tree oil gel for acne treatment showed an efficacy with fewer adverse reactions compared to conventional treatments. The uncontrolled studies indicated the potential efficacy of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) oil, eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) oil, and cedarwood (Cedrus libani) oil in the treatment of acne, but further research is required to reach conclusive evidence. The placebo-controlled studies revealed the positive effects of kānuka (Kunzea ericoides) oil and frankincense (Boswellia spp.) oil in the treatment of psoriasis and eczema. The quality verification of the EO products was inconsistent, with some studies lacking analyses and transparency. The quality limitations of some studies included a small sample size, a short duration, and the absence of a control group. This present review underscores the need for extended, well-designed clinical studies to further assess the efficacy and safety of EOs for treating inflammatory skin conditions with products of assured quality and to further elucidate the mechanisms of action involved.

Stability Profile and Clinical Evaluation of an Innovative Hydrogel Containing Polymeric Micelles as Drug Delivery Systems with Oregano Essential Oil against Fibroepithelial Polyps

Skin tags, also known as fibroepithelial polyps (FPs) or acrochordons, are soft, pigmented excrescences, with a prevalence of 50-60% in the population, occurring especially in the fourth decade of life. To date, FPs have been efficiently eliminated using minimum invasive methods such as surgical removal, cauterization, laser irradiation, and cryosurgery. Over-the-counter treatments are also of interest for patients due to their non-invasive character, but their clinical efficiency has not been clearly demonstrated. This study was designed in order to evaluate the efficacy of a modern-pharmaceutical-formulation-type poloxamer-based binary hydrogel, having Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OEO-PbH) as an active ingredient in the management of FPs. The formulation has been shown to possess good qualities in terms of stability and sterility. Non-invasive measurements revealed changes in some physiological skin parameters. An increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and erythema index was noted, while skin surface water content (SWC) decreased during eight weeks of treatment. The macroscopic evaluation revealed that the FPs dried and shrunk after topical treatment with OEO-PbH. Clinically, patients presented a lowering of the number of lesions on the treated area of 20-30% after one month of treatment and around 50% after the second month. Histopathological examination suggests that topical treatment with OEO-PbH may induce histological changes in the epidermis, dermis, and fibrovascular cores of FPs, including a loss of thickness, reduced size and number of blood vessels, and low cellularity. These changes may contribute to the observed reduction in size of FPs after treatment with OEO-PbH.

Cutaneous Polymeric-Micelles-Based Hydrogel Containing Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil: In Vitro Release and Permeation, Angiogenesis, and Safety Profile In Ovo

Origanum vulgare var. vulgare essential oil (OEO) is known as a natural product with multiple beneficial effects with application in dermatology. Oregano essential oil represents a potential natural therapeutic alternative for fibroepithelial polyps (FPs), commonly known as skin tags. Innovative formulations have been developed to improve the bioavailability and stability of essential oils. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the morphology of a polymeric-micelles-based hydrogel (OEO-PbH), the release and permeation profile of oregano essential oil, as well as to assess in vivo the potential effects on the degree of biocompatibility and the impact on angiogenesis in ovo, using a chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis indicated a regular aspect after the encapsulation process, while in vitro release studies showed a sustained release of the essential oil. None of the tested samples induced any irritation on the CAM and the limitation of the angiogenic process was noted. OEO-PbH, with a sustained release of OEO, potentially enhances the anti-angiogenic effect while being well tolerated and non-irritative by the vascularized CAM, especially on the blood vessels (BVs) in the presence of leptin treatment. This is the first evidence of in vivo antiangiogenic effects of a polymeric-micelle-loaded oregano essential oil, with further mechanistic insights for OEO-PbH formulation, involving leptin as a possible target. The findings suggest that the OEO-containing polymeric micelle hydrogel represents a potential future approach in the pathology of cutaneous FP and other angiogenesis-related conditions.

Synergistic Antibacterial Effect of Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Vernonia amygdalina Delile Leaves with Tetracycline against Clinical Isolate Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Multidrug-resistant bacteria have raised global concern about the inability to fight deadly infectious diseases. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are the most common resistant bacteria that are causing hospital infections. The present study was undertaken to investigate the synergistic antibacterial effect of the ethyl acetate fraction of Vernonia amygdalina Delile leaves (EAFVA) with tetracycline against the clinical isolates MRSA and P. aeruginosa. Microdilution was used to establish the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). A checkerboard assay was conducted for the interaction effect. Bacteriolysis, staphyloxanthin, and a swarming motility assay were also investigated. EAFVA exhibited antibacterial activity against MRSA and P. aeruginosa with a MIC value of 125 μg/mL. Tetracycline showed antibacterial activity against MRSA and P. aeruginosa with MIC values of 15.62 and 31.25 μg/mL, respectively. The interaction between EAFVA and tetracycline showed a synergistic effect against MRSA and P. aeruginosa with a Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (FICI) of 0.375 and 0.31, respectively. The combination of EAFVA and tetracycline induced the alteration of MRSA and P. aeruginosa, leading to cell death. Moreover, EAFVA also inhibited the quorum sensing system in MRSA and P. aeruginosa. The results revealed that EAFVA enhanced the antibacterial activity of tetracycline against MRSA and P. aeruginosa. This extract also regulated the quorum sensing system in the tested bacteria.

Essential Oils in the Treatment of Various Types of Acne-A Review

Acne is a chronic, common disease that poses a significant therapeutic, psychological and social problem. The etiopathogenesis of this disease is not fully understood. Drugs used in general and external therapy should have anti-seborrhoeic, anticomadogenic, bactericidal, bacteriostatic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Acne treatment is often associated with the long-term use of antibiotics, contributing to the global antibiotic resistance crisis. In order to solve this problem, attention has been paid to essential oils and their terpene components with potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Research shows that certain essential oils effectively reduce inflammatory acne lesions through mechanisms related to the sebaceous glands, colonization of Cutibacterium acnes, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). An example is tea tree oil (TTO), a more commonly used topical agent for treating acne. TTO has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity. The paper presents the latest scientific information on the activity and potential use of specific essential oils in treating acne. Evidence of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity of several essential oils and their main components was presented, indicating the possibility of using them in the treatment of acne.

Bioassay-guided Fractionation of Clove Buds Extract Identifies Eugenol as Potent Melanogenic Inducer in Melanoma Cells

Clove, a dried flower buds of Syzygium aromaticum, is used in traditional medicine, for culinary purposes, and in essential oil production. In our preliminary screening of crude drugs used in Japanese Kampo formulas, a methanol (MeOH) extract of clove buds was found to exhibit a melanin induction. To date, the effects of clove buds or their constituents on the activation of melanogenesis remain unclear. Thus, this study aimed to isolate active compounds from the MeOH extract of clove buds associated with melanin synthesis in melanoma cells and to investigate the molecular mechanism involved. The MeOH extract of clove buds increased melanin content in murine B16-F1 melanoma cells. To identify the active compounds responsible for melanin induction, the MeOH extract was suspended in water and successively partitioned using hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and n-butanol (n-BuOH). Comparative analysis revealed that the EtOAc fraction induced melanin synthesis. Bioassay-guided separation of the EtOAc fraction isolated three compounds including eugenol. The analysis of structure-activity relationships of eugenol and structurally related compounds indicated that eugenol was the most potent melanin inducer among the 11 compounds, and that a hydroxyl group at C-1 and a methoxy group at C-2 may contribute to melanin induction. Eugenol induced melanin synthesis in human HMV-II melanoma cells as well as in B16-F1 cells. Further analysis indicated that eugenol may invoke intracellular tyrosinase activity and expression of tyrosinase, tyrosinaserelated protein (TRP)-1, TRP-2, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). These results suggest that eugenol enhances melanin synthesis by upregulating the expression of MITF and subsequent expression of melanogenic enzymes, and that it may be a potent therapeutic agent for hypopigmentation.

The Risk of Emerging Resistance to Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole in Staphylococcus aureus

Objective

Due to the spread of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA), the demand for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (SXT) is increasing in the world. It is not clear whether the resistant strain emerges by overuse of SXT. We investigated here the emergent risk of the SXT-resistant mutant in S. aureus by an in vitro SXT exposure experiment.

Methods

A total of 40 S. aureus clinical isolates (20 MSSA and 20 MRSA isolates) were exposed to sub-MIC of SXT for consecutive days, and MIC of SXT was determined every day. In addition, the dfrB DNA sequencing was performed to detect the mutation in the SXT-resistant strain.

Results

The SXT-resistant strain began to emerge on the eighth day and accounted for 45% (18/40 clinical isolates) after 14 days. Moreover, one half of these resistant strains showed F98Y mutation in DfrB to retain SXT-resistance without selective pressure.

Conclusion

The emergent risk was SXT exposure of 14 days or more.

Effect of Rosemary Cream on Episiotomy Wound Healing in Primiparous Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

Delay in episiotomy wound healing can lead to infection. The application of natural antimicrobial agents isolated from herbal essences can be a good strategy to prevent the growth of bacteria and promote the wound healing process. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of rosemary cream on episiotomy wound healing in primiparous women.

Methods

This triple-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 80 primiparous pregnant women who were referred to the maternity ward of Shahid Motahari Hospital in Marvdasht, Iran, from September 2019 to March 2020. These women were randomly assigned into two groups of intervention (rosemary cream) and control (placebo), using variable quadruple blocks. Both groups applied the prescribed cream (in a dose of 2 cm) uniformly on the sutured area to cover it with the cream. The cream was applied twice a day for 10 consecutive days postpartum, and the rate of wound healing was evaluated by the researcher in the first 12 h and at days 4 and 10 postpartum using the REEDA scale. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (Version 19) through the Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test, student’s t-test, and Fisher’s test. A p-value less than 0.05 (P < 0.05) was considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean ± SD REEDA score on the fourth day postpartum was obtained at 3.82 ± 0.93 and 4.25 ± 1.29 in the groups of rosemary cream and placebo, respectively (P = 0.17). However, the mean ± SD REEDA scores on the 10th day postpartum were determined at 0.75 ± 0.74 and 3.32 ± 2.54 in the rosemary cream and placebo groups, respectively, indicating a higher rate of episiotomy wound healing in the group of rosemary cream compared to placebo (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Based on the obtained results, it seems that rosemary cream can be effective in healing episiotomy wounds in primiparous women. However, further studies are suggested to confirm the findings of this study.

Trial registration

This trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials in 24/08/2019 with the IRCT ID: IRCT20190308042971N1. The first participant enrolled in this trial in September 2019. URL of registry: https://en.irct.ir/trial/40092.

An Up-To-Date Review Regarding Cutaneous Benefits of Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil

Due to the plethora of pharmacological activities reported in the literature, Origanum vulgare L. is a valuable aromatic plant for the medicine of the XXI century. Recent studies highlight that Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OvEo) has gained attention in the dermatological field due to the cosmeceutical potential correlated with the presence of thymol and carvacrol. As a result of the fulminant expansion of bacterial resistance to antibiotics and the aggressiveness of skin infections, OvEo was extensively studied for its antimicrobial activity against Staphyloccocus spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, researchers have also assessed the anti-inflammatory activity of OvEo, suggesting its tissue remodeling and wound healing potential. Whereas OvEo comprises important biological activities that are used in a wide range of pathologies, recently, essential oils have shown great potential in the development of new therapeutic alternatives for skin disorders, such as acne, wounds or aging. Furthermore, substantial efforts have been committed to the development of modern formulations, such as microemulsions and nanoemulsions, in order to create the possibility for topical application. The review brings to the fore the most recent findings in the dermatological field regarding potential plant-based therapies involving OvEo, emphasizing the modern pharmaceutical formulation approaches and the cutaneous benefits in skin disorders.

Synergistic Effects of Fluconazole Combined with Doxycycline Against Dual-Species Cultures of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus epidermidis and the Mechanisms of Action

Bacterial and fungal coinfections have posed great clinical challenges in recent years, and combination therapy may be a useful way to treat these mixed infections. The objective of this study was to find an effective drug combination to treat dual-species cultures of fungi and bacteria. In this study, we focused on poorly investigated mixed cultures of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus epidermidis. In this research, we investigated the effects of fluconazole (FLC) and doxycycline (DOX) against dual-species cultures of C. albicans and S. epidermidis. Both the fractional inhibitory concentration index model and ΔE model revealed a synergistic antimicrobial effect between FLC and DOX against the four groups of dual-species cultures. Mechanistic studies revealed that the synergism of FLC and DOX against dual-species cultures may be associated with the inhibition of biofilms and calcium dysregulation. Fluconazole+doxycycline appears to be a potential drug combination for the treatment of bacterial and fungal coinfections. These findings are of great significance for overcoming clinical bacterial and fungal coinfections and might provide novel insights into drug discovery for combination therapy.

Evaluation of Wound Healing and Antibacterial Activities of Solvent Fractions of 80% Methanol Leaf Extract of Brucea antidysenterica J.F. Mill (Simaroubaceae)

Background

Brucea antidysenterica is a well-known medicinal plant that has traditionally been used to treat a variety of ailments, including wound healing. Supporting the traditional claims, wound healing, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities of the crude extracts of different parts of the plant were reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the wound healing and antibacterial activities of solvent fractions of the menthol leaf extract of Brucea antidysenterica.

Methods

Methanol (80%) leaf extract of Brucea antidysenterica was fractionated using three solvents; water, n-butanol and chloroform. An ointment containing 2% and 4% of each fraction was formulated and applied to wounds inflicted on rats topically. The wound contraction rate, period of epithelialization, and breaking strength were analysed. In vitro antibacterial activities were tested using the agar diffusion method. The macro-tube dilution technique was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was determined by sub-culturing the MIC and concentrations below the MIC.

Results

The 2% and 4% aqueous fractions (AF) significantly increased wound contraction (p 0.001) compared to the negative control and increased tensile strength compared to untreated (p 0.001). Among the three fractions, the n-butanol fraction showed the highest antibacterial growth inhibition, ranging from 8 mm (E. coli) to 16 mm (S. aureus).

Conclusion

Data obtained from this study collectively indicated that the aqueous fraction of 80% methanol leaf extract of B. antidysenterica possesses wound healing and antibacterial activities.

Antimicrobial activity, in vitro anticancer effect (MCF-7 breast cancer cell line), antiangiogenic and immunomodulatory potentials of Populus nigra L. buds extract

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant potential, antimicrobial activity, the in vitro anticancer effect (tested on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line), as well as the antiangiogenic and immunomodulatory potential of Populus nigra L. bud (Pg) extract collected from the western part of Romania.

RESULTS

Populus nigra L. bud extract presents an important antioxidant activity, due to the rich phytochemical composition. Regarding the biological activity, results have shown that poplar bud extract presents a significant inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria and a dose-dependent decrease of MCF-7 tumor cell viability with an IC₅₀ of 66.26 μg/mL, while not affecting healthy cells. Phenomena of early apoptotic events at the maximum concentration tested (150 μg/mL) were detected by Annexin V-PI double staining. The extract induced G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest. In addition, Pg extract showed antiangiogenic potential on the chorioallantoic membrane. Also, at the highest concentration (150 μg/mL), good tolerability and no signs of toxicity upon vascular plexus were observed. Moreover, in low concentrations, the Pg extract had immunomodulatory activity on primary human dendritic cells by upregulating IL-12 and IL-23 subunits.

CONCLUSION

The study concludes that poplar bud extract elicited antioxidant activity, antitumor properties on the breast cancer cell line, followed by an antiangiogenic effect and an immunomodulatory potential on human primary dendritic cells. The biological activity of Populus nigra L. buds extract may open new directions of research on the topic addressed.

Alkaloid profiling and antimicrobial activities of Papaver glaucum and P. decaisnei

OBJECTIVE

Papaver decaisnei Hochst. & Steud. Ex Elkan and Papaver glaucum Boiss. & Hausskn. growing wild in Northern Iraq have been historically used for medicinal purposes. In this study, both species were evaluated for their alkaloid content and antimicrobial activities.

RESULTS

Alkaloids were extracted and isolated by preparative thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Identification was carried out by comparing spectral data (UV and 1H-NMR) and TLC Rf values with those of authentic samples. Two alkaloids, proapaorphine-type mecambrine and aporphine-type roemerine were isolated from P. decaisnei. Two benzylisoquinoline type alkaloids papaverine (major alkaloid) and palaudine as well as aporphine-type N-methylasimilobine have been obtained in P. glaucum. Both P. glaucum and P. decaisnei extracts revealed strong antimicrobial activity on Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 and Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212. Collectively these results indicate that P. glaucum and P. decaisnei are promising sources of alkaloids that could further be investigated for medicinal purposes.

The Inhibitory Efficiencies of Geraniol as an Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial, Natural Agent Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection in vivo

Introduction

Antibiotics wee widely used as feed additives in animal husbandry. With the increase of drug resistance of bacteria, there is an urgent need to find alternatives to antibiotics. Clinically, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections account for about 25% to 50% of Staphylococcus aureus infections worldwide. Similarly, it is also one of the pathogens that cause serious animal infections.

Methods

We established a mouse model of systemic infection of MRSA to study the preventive effect of geraniol on MRSA and the immunomodulatory effect of geraniol. The mice in the experiment were injected with geraniol by intramuscular injection and were fed intraperitoneally with minimum lethal dose of MRSA. Then, the survival rate, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress factors in serum were measured. These values were used to estimate the bacterial load in different organs and to assess histopathological changes in the lungs, liver and kidneys.

Results

The above-mentioned two ways of using geraniol could prevent MRSA infection in vivo in mice and showed a significant dose–response relationship. In other words, geraniol significantly decreased the concentrations of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress factors in MRSA-infected mice. At the same time, the level of glutathione peroxidase also increased in a dose–proportional relationship. In the group of mice treated with geraniol, their superoxide dismutase levels were significantly higher than those in the vancomycin. After treatment with geraniol, the burden of MRSA decreased. No obvious histopathological abnormalities were found in the liver and kidney of MRSA-infected mice. In addition, geraniol improved the inflammatory changes in the lungs.

Conclusion

The results indicated that geraniol was a natural substance that could be used as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial substance to protect mice from MRSA systemic infection. Generally, the research shows that as a natural medicine, geraniol has broad potential in the development and application of antibiotic substitutes.

Intake of Antioxidant Vitamins and Minerals in Relation to Body Composition, Skin Hydration and Lubrication in Young Women

The aim of this study was to estimate the consumption of selected dietary components with antioxidant properties, undertake body composition analysis, assess skin hydration and lubrication, and establish the relationships between the above parameters. The study was carried out on 172 young women. The consumption of ingredients (vitamins A, C, D and E, and Cu, Mn, Zn) was assessed using the Diet 6.0 program, body composition was assessed using electrical bioimpedance and skin hydration and lubrication were assessed using the corneometric and sebumetric methods, respectively. About one-third of students showed insufficient consumption of vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc, while about 99% showed insufficient vitamin D levels. The highest degree of hydration was observed in the areas of the eyelids, neckline and chin. The greatest amount of sebum was found in the area of the nose and forehead. Low positive correlations between hydration or lubrication and Cu, vitamin A and vitamin E were observed. In conclusion, to properly moisturize and lubricate the skin, young women should eat products that are rich in ingredients with antioxidant properties, in particular fat-soluble vitamins A and E, but also copper.

First insights into molecular basis identification of 16 s ribosomal RNA gene of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from Sudan

Objective

In this study, we analyzed the molecular evolution of Staphylococcus aureus isolates using 16S rRNA gene and phylogenetic analysis to detect the prevalence of S. aureus infections in Sudan.

Results

Molecular detection of S. aureus has shown that 20 (43.47%) of patients were positive for S. aureus. The phylogenetic tree of 16S rRNA sequences was divided into three lineages of S. aureus isolates detected from wound infections in Sudan. Nucleotides base-pair substitution was appeared at position 249. This mutation do not linked with Macrolides, Lincosamides and Streptogramines b resistant phenotype. Further studies should investigate the effect of that mutation on resistance to other antibiotics.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13104-021-05569-w.

UVB Radiation Protective Effect of Brown Alga Padina australis: A Potential Cosmeceutical Application of Malaysian Seaweed

Marine natural products are a good source of antioxidants due to the presence of a wide range of bioactive compounds. Accumulating evidence proves the potential use of seaweed-derived ingredients in skincare products. This study aims to evaluate the ultraviolet (UV) protective activity of the ethanol and water extracts of Padina australis. As the preliminary attempt for this discovery, the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were measured, followed by the in vitro antioxidant activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and reducing the power to shed light on its bioactivity. The UVB protective activity was examined on HaCaT human keratinocyte cells. The findings of this study reveal that the P. australis ethanol extract serves as a promising source of antioxidants, as it exhibits stronger antioxidant activities compared with the water extract in DPPH and the reducing power assays. The P. australis ethanol extract also demonstrated a higher level of total phenolic (76 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid contents (50 mg QE/g). Meanwhile, both the ethanol (400 µg/mL) and water extracts (400 µg/mL) protected the HaCaT cells from UVB-induced cell damage via promoting cell viability. Following that, LCMS analysis reveals that the P. australis ethanol extract consists of sugar alcohol, polysaccharide, carotenoid, terpenoid and fatty acid, whereas the water extract contains compounds from phenol, terpenoid, fatty acid, fatty alcohol and fatty acid amide. In summary, biometabolites derived from P. australis have diverse functional properties, and they could be applied to the developments of cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical products.

Characterizing the Mechanism of Action of Essential Oils on Skin Homeostasis—Data from Sonographic Imaging, Epidermal Water Dynamics, and Skin Biomechanics

Essential oils (EOs) have been recognized as materials of interest for dermatological applications, although some doubts remain regarding their safety and efficacy. We studied the action mechanisms of EOs from lavender and sage in human skin. Extracted EOs were incorporated (at 5% and 10%) in almond oil as a vehicle. Eleven healthy volunteers were selected and the prepared oils were tested on both forearms. All procedures respected the principles of good clinical practice. Effects were followed through high resolution sonography (HRS), epidermal water dynamics, and biomechanics. All variables were measured before and 30 min after application. Nonparametric statistical comparisons were applied (p < 0.05). HRS revealed a more echogenic epidermis, with a significant echogenicity decrease in the dermis (higher water retention) for all formulations. Significant TEWL decrease and an increase in superficial and deep epidermal hydration were also observed. These results indicate that EOs penetrate only into the most superficial layers of the skin, which is important for their safety profile. Furthermore, this “filmogenic” mechanism improving the epidermal water balance seems to connect directly with the observed biomechanical enhancement. These results confirm the clinical relevance of these compounds, in particular to restore the epidermal water content and prevent xerosis and other related disorders in sensitive (atopic, elderly) patients.

Efficacy and Safety of Azelaic Acid Nanocrystal-Loaded In Situ Hydrogel in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common, multifactorial, inflammatory skin disease affecting the pilosebaceous unit. Topical therapy is the first choice in the treatment of mild to moderate acne, and azelaic acid (AZA) is one of the most commonly used drugs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a low-dose azelaic acid nanocrystal (AZA-NC) hydrogel in the treatment of mild to moderate facial acne. The study was designed as a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomized to treatment with AZA-NC hydrogel, 10%, or AZA cream, 20%, administered in quantities of approximately 1 g twice daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy of therapy was measured by the number of lesions and safety by the frequency and severity of adverse events. At week 8, the success rate of treatment with AZA-NC hydrogel, 10%, was 36.51% (p < 0.001) versus 30.37% (p < 0.001) with AZA cream. At week 8, treatment with AZA-NC hydrogel, 10%, resulted in a significant reduction in total inflammatory lesions from baseline of 39.15% (p < 0.001) versus 33.76% (p < 0.001) with AZA cream, and a reduction in non-inflammatory lesions from baseline of 34.58% (p < 0.001) versus 27.96% (p < 0.001) with AZA cream, respectively. The adverse event rate was low and mostly mild.

An Overview of the Biological Activity of Pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine Derivatives

Pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine is one of the six structural isomers of the bicyclic ring system containing a pyrrole moiety fused to a pyridine nucleus. The broad spectrum of pharmacological properties of pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine derivatives is the main reason for developing new compounds containing this scaffold. This review presents studies on the biological activity of pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridines that have been reported in the scientific literature. Most of these derivatives have been studied as analgesic and sedative agents. Biological investigations have shown that pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridines can be used to treat diseases of the nervous and immune systems. Their antidiabetic, antimycobacterial, antiviral, and antitumor activities also have been found.

A Unique Acylated Flavonol Glycoside from Prunus persica (L.) var. Florida Prince: A New Solid Lipid Nanoparticle Cosmeceutical Formulation for Skincare

Polyphenols are known dietary antioxidants. They have recently attracted considerable interest in uses to prevent skin aging and hyperpigmentation resulting from solar UV-irradiation. Prunus persica (L.) leaves are considered by-products and were reported to have a remarkable antioxidant activity due to their high content of polyphenols. This study aimed at the development of a cosmeceutical anti-aging and skin whitening cream preparation using ethanol leaves extract of Prunus persica (L.) (PPEE) loaded in solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to enhance the skin delivery. Chemical investigation of PPEE showed significantly high total phenolic and flavonoids content with notable antioxidant activities (DPPH, ABTS, and β-carotene assays). A unique acylated kaempferol glycoside with a rare structure, kaempferol 3-O-β-⁴C₁-(6″-O-3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetyl glucopyranoside) (KDPAG) was isolated for the first time and its structure fully elucidated. It represents the first example of acylation with 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl acetic acid in flavonoid chemistry. The in-vitro cytotoxicity studies against a human keratinocytes cell line revealed the non-toxicity of PPEE and PPEE-SLNs. Moreover, PPEE, PPEE-SLNs, and KDPAG showed good anti-elastase activity, comparable to that of N-(Methoxysuccinyl)-Ala-Ala-Pro-Val-chloromethyl ketone. Besides, PPEE-SLNs and KDPAG showed significantly (p < 0.001) higher anti-collagenase and anti-tyrosinase activities in comparison to EDTA and kojic acid, respectively. Different PPEE-SLNs cream formulae (2% and 5%) were evaluated for possible anti-wrinkle activity against UV-induced photoaging in a mouse model using a wrinkle scoring method and were shown to offer a highly significant protective effect against UV, as evidenced by tissue biomarkers (SOD) and histopathological studies. Thus, the current study demonstrates that Prunus persica leaf by-products provide an interesting, valuable resource for natural cosmetic ingredients. This provides related data for further studying the potential safe use of PPEE-SLNs in topical anti-aging cosmetic formulations with enhanced skin permeation properties.

Atrial Natriuretic Peptide Affects Skin Commensal Staphylococcus epidermidis and Cutibacterium acnes Dual-Species Biofilms

The first evidence of the atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) effect on mono-species and dual-species biofilms of skin commensals Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis was obtained in different model systems. Elucidation of the mechanism of action of hormones on the microbial communities of human skin is an important physiological and medical aspect. Under anaerobic conditions, ANP at a concentration of 6.5 × 10-10 M inhibits the growth of S. epidermidis biofilms and stimulates the growth of C. acnes biofilms, and a lesser effect has been demonstrated on planktonic cultures. In biofilms, ANP stimulates aggregation in C. acnes and aggregate dispersion of S. epidermidis, while in S. epidermidis, ANP also stimulates the metabolic activity of cells. Analysis of dual-species biofilms has shown the dominance of S. epidermidis, while ANP increases the ratio of C. acnes biomass in the community. ANP decreases the growth rate of S. epidermidis biofilms and increases that of C. acnes. The effect of ANP is not dependent on the surface type and probably affects other targets in microbial cells. Thus, the potential regulatory effect of human ANP on skin microbe dual-species communities has been shown, and its potential has been demonstrated to change microbiota homeostasis on the skin.

Essential Oils as Natural Sources of Fragrance Compounds for Cosmetics and Cosmeceuticals

Fragrance is an integral part of cosmetic products and is often regarded as an overriding factor in the selection of cosmetics among consumers. Fragrances also play a considerable role in masking undesirable smells arising from fatty acids, oils and surfactants that are commonly used in cosmetic formulations. Essential oils are vital assets in the cosmetic industry, as along with imparting pleasant aromas in different products, they are able to act as preservatives and active agents and, simultaneously, offer various benefits to the skin. Moreover, the stimulating demand for natural ingredients has contributed massively to a renewed interest in cosmetic and wellness industries in plant derivatives, especially essential oils. This has led popular cosmetic companies to endorse natural fragrances and opt for minimally processed natural ingredients, given the potentially adverse health risks associated with artificial fragrance chemicals, which are major elements of cosmetics. Among the high-valued essential oils used as fragrances are citrus, lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree and other floral oils, among others, while linalool, geraniol, limonene, citronellol, and citral are much-appreciated fragrance components used in different cosmetics. Thus, this review aimed to highlight the enormous versatility of essential oils as significant sources of natural fragrances in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals. Moreover, a special focus will be laid on the different aspects related to essential oils such as their sources, market demand, chemistry, fragrance classification, aroma profile, authenticity and safety.

Correlation Between Facial Skin Microbiota and Skin Barriers in a Chinese Female Population with Sensitive Skin

Background and Aim

The association of microbiota changes with sensitive skin remains controversial until now. Although a strong correlation is detected between skin microbiota distribution and biophysical parameters, there is little knowledge on the link between sensitive skin and skin microbiota in Chinese women. This study aimed to unravel the correlation between facial skin microbiota distribution and skin barriers in Chinese women with sensitive skin.

Materials and Methods

In total, 34 volunteers were enrolled, including 24 subjects with sensitive skin (SS group) and 10 subjects with non-sensitive skin (NS group). The cuticle moisture content, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and facial skin sebum secretion were measured, and the facial skin surface morphology was evaluated. Sensitive skin samples were collected from the facial (SS-F group) and chest skin of subjects in the SS group (SS-C group), while non-sensitive skin samples were collected from the facial skin of subjects in the NS group (NS-F group). All skin samples were subjected to 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

16S rRNA sequencing detected Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria as the three most common microbiota phyla and Propionibacterium, Paracoccus, and Corynebacterium as the three most common microbiota genera, and there were no significant differences in the relative frequency of Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, or Proteobacteria, or Propionibacterium, Paracoccus, or Corynebacterium among the SS-F, SS-C, and NS-F groups (P>0.05). We detected no significant difference in the diversity of bacterial communities among the SS-F, SS-C, and NS-F groups; however, the Shannon’s diversity index was significantly higher in the NS-F group than in the SS-C group. In addition, Spearman correlation analysis showed a correlation between the microbiota genera and skin physiological parameters (P<0.05).

Conclusion

This study preliminarily unravels the skin microbiota of sensitive skin using a high-throughput tool, and there are no microbiota genera with strong associations with skin physiological parameters.

Evaluation of Natural Bioactive-Derived Punicalagin Niosomes in Skin-Aging Processes Accelerated by Oxidant and Ultraviolet Radiation

INTRODUCTION

Skin aging is a normal process that might be accelerated or delayed by altering the balance between antioxidants and free radicals due to increase in the exposure to reactive oxygen species (ROS) into skin cells via UV radiation. Antioxidants can neutralize the harmful effects of ROS, and secondary plant metabolites might help protect against UV radiation.

METHODS

In this study, punicalagin was extracted from pomegranate, and concentrations of total polyphenolics and flavonoids were determined, and antioxidant activities were measured. Punicalagin was loaded onto niosomes, and its morphology and release were studied. An in vitro study was performed on human fibroblast cell line HFB4 cells with aging induced by H₂O₂ and UV radiation. Cell cycle arrest was studied, and different genes (MMP3, Col1A1, Timp3, and TERT) involved in the skin aging process were selected to measure punicalagin's effect.

RESULTS

Punicalagin succeeded in reducing the growth arrest of HFB4 cells, activated production of the Col1A1 and Timp3 genes, maintained collagen level, and lowered MMP3. Punicalagin increased human TERT concentration in skin cells.

DISCUSSION

Punicalagin is promising as a natural antioxidant to protect human skin from aging.

Correlations on Phenolic Screening Related to In Vitro and In Ovo Assessment of Ocimum basilicum L. Hydro-Alcoholic Extracts Used as Skin Active Ingredient

The current study was aimed to evaluate the phenolic composition parameters of two hydro-alcoholic extracts of Ocimum basilicum L. (OB) obtained from the aerial part (without leaves) and leaves, in order to determine their contribution to the antioxidant activity (AOA). Both hydro-alcoholic extracts have proven to be rich in polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, flavonols and tannins. Therefore, the leaves’ extracts reveal an inhibition percentage of 89%, almost comparable with the standard reference (95%). To complete the toxicological profile, the study also assessed the potential cytotoxicity of basil hydro-alcoholic extracts on immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT), skin human fibroblasts (1BR3), mice epidermis (JB6Cl41-5a) and primary human melanocytes (HEMa) cells, correlated to A375 antitumor in vitro activity. The extracts did not induce significant cytotoxic effect on any of the selected normal cell lines but showed relevant activity on A375 cells. Considering the low values obtained regarding the irritative effects in the chorionallantoic membrane of the egg on blood vessels, we can emphasize that both extracts can be considered as biocompatible ingredients. Regarding the potential activity of hydro-alcoholic extracts on human skin, the decrease of erythema values after the application of extracts was a relevant observation which indicates the anti-inflammatory potential of Ocimum basilicum L.

In Silico Evaluation of Human Cathelicidin LL-37 as a Novel Therapeutic Inhibitor of Panton-Valentine Leukocidin Toxin of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Incidence of drug resistance in clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is attributed to its diverse repertoire of virulence factors. Of these virulence determinants, Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL) has been experimentally validated as a prospective drug target due to its conspicuous and comprehensive role in nosocomial infections. This study encompassed an in silico approach to elucidate the antimicrobial potentiality of human cathelicidin LL-37 against PVL toxin of MRSA. Molecular docking studies of LL-37 and its segments with the PVL toxin subunits LukS and LukF were carried out using PatchDock server and the results were refined using FireDock server. The paramount ligand-receptor combination was selected and analyzed based on diverse parametric attributes and compared with the commercial inhibitors of PVL viz. Andrimid, Beclobrate, Beta-sitosterol, Diathymosulfone, and Probucol to determine the most potent inhibitor among them. Our results elucidated that the interaction of LL-37 with the LukS subunit of PVL toxin (minimum global energy of -61.82 kcal/mol) depicted 34 molecular interactions, while the commercial PVL inhibitors depicted fewer and insubstantial interactions. SWISS-ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) and ToxinPred analysis of LL-37 further corroborated its null potency of toxicity in systemic milieu. The results obtained may credit this study as basis for the development of LL-37 as a potential inhibitor against virulent MRSA toxins, thereby exalting the treatment regimes for nosocomial infections in health care facilities worldwide.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): One Health Perspective Approach to the Bacterium Epidemiology, Virulence Factors, Antibiotic-Resistance, and Zoonotic Impact

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major human pathogen and a historically emergent zoonotic pathogen with public health and veterinary importance. In humans, MRSA commonly causes severe infectious diseases, including food poisoning, pyogenic endocarditis, suppurative pneumonia, otitis media, osteomyelitis, and pyogenic infections of the skin, soft tissues. In the horse, MRSA could cause a localized purulent infection and botryomycosis; in cattle and ewe, localized pyogenic infection and severe acute mastitis with marked toxemia; in sheep, abscess disease resembles caseous lymphadenitis caused by anaerobic strains; in dogs and cats, pustular dermatitis and food poisoning; in pig, exudative epidermatitis “greasy pig disease; in birds, MRSA causes bumble-foot. The methicillin resistance could be determined by PCR-based detection of the mecA gene as well as resistance to cefoxitin. In Egypt, MRSA is one of the important occasions of subclinical and clinical bovine mastitis, and the prevalence of MRSA varies by geographical region. In this review, we are trying to illustrate variable data about the host susceptibility, diseases, epidemiology, virulence factors, antibiotic resistance, treatment, and control of MRSA infection.

Comparison of In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Epaltes divaricata and Vetiveria zizanioides against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major cause of hospital- and community-acquired infections worldwide. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the antibacterial activity of the two medicinal plants Epaltes divaricata and Vetiveria zizanioides against strains of MRSA which were isolated from patients with skin and soft tissue infections. Hexane, ethanol, and water extracts of E. divaricata (whole plant) and V. zizanioides (roots) were prepared. Clinical isolates of MRSA strains (n = 20) were used for the study. Bacterial susceptibility was tested using a disc diffusion assay. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by a broth microdilution method. Vancomycin was used as the positive control. Hexane, ethanol, and water extracts of E. divaricata showed inhibitory zones against MRSA. Except for water extract, both hexane and ethanol extracts of V. zizanioides showed inhibitory zones. MIC ranges of hexane, ethanol, and water extracts in E. divaricata were 0.012-0.32 mg/mL, 0.019-2.4 mg/mL, and 0.019-0.48 mg/mL, respectively. Respective MIC ranges of hexane and ethanol extracts of V. zizanioides were 0.003-0.032 mg/mL and 0.019-2.4 mg/mL. The hexane extract of V. zizanioides inhibited 55% of the selected MRSA strains at a relatively low MIC value of 0.012 mg/mL. The hexane extract of both plants demonstrated inhibition of 75% of MRSA strains at a MIC value of 0.064 mg/mL. Ethanol extract of V. zizanioides and E. divaricata, respectively, inhibited 70% and 45% of MRSA strains at the MIC of 0.096 mg/mL, whereas water extract of E. divaricata inhibited 80% of MRSA strains at the same MIC. Both E. divaricata and V. zizanioides were equally effective against MRSA at a MIC of 0.064 mg/mL. But V. zizanioides was more effective since the hexane extract inhibited more than 50% of MRSA strains at significantly a lower MIC value of 0.012 mg/mL. Fractionation, purification, and identification of active compounds will warrant further evaluation of the therapeutic potential of both plant extracts.