Effects of plant sterols derived from Aloe vera gel on human dermal fibroblasts in vitro and on skin condition in Japanese women

Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera)

Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera, AV) is a widely recognized for its diverse health-promoting, skin care, and medicinal properties. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of AV's bioactive compounds, pharmacological activities, potential applications, its toxic and adverse effects, as well as the clinical evidence supporting AV's efficacy in disease prevention. AV contains over 200 bioactive compounds, with the inner clear gel of the leaves containing the majority of these compounds. These include phenolic acids (274.5-307.5 mg/100 g), flavonoids. (3.63-4.70 g/kg), polysaccharides (3.82-6.55 g/kg), saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and anthraquinone derivatives. Findings from clinical studies involving both humans and animals highlight the therapeutic potential of AV across diverse health domains. The studies demonstrate AV's efficacy in reducing blood glucose levels, exhibiting antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects, inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, protecting the liver from damage, and displaying antimicrobial properties. In the fields of dermatology and dentistry, AV has also been observed to promote skin and oral health. However, it is imperative to acknowledge potential risks, adhere to recommended dosages, and seek guidance from healthcare experts before employing AV as a natural therapeutic option. Moreover, considering safety concerns, further well-designed randomized controlled trials are necessary to substantiate the potential benefits of AV and comprehensively assess any associated risks.

Exploring the wound-healing and antimicrobial potential of Dittrichia viscosa L lipidic extract: Chemical composition and in vivo evaluation

Dittrichia viscosa belongs to the Dittrichia genus, it grows abundantly in the east and northeast of Morocco, and traditionally its fresh leaves are crushed and given for topical application after burns, wounds, and infections. In this study, we examine the wound-healing activity of Dittrichia viscosa lipidic extract in vivo, assess its anti-microbial effect, and explore the specific compounds that contribute to these effects. To assess the effectiveness of wound healing, a burn-induced wound model was employed in Wistar rats, and the levels of hydroxyproline as well as histopathological changes in the skin tissues were evaluated. Furthermore, the antimicrobial potential against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Malassezia furfur was investigated using the agar disc diffusion method. Gas Chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques were employed to analyze the composition of fatty acids, phytosterols, and tocopherols. Topical application of Dittrichia viscosa lipidic fraction ointment exhibited significant improvements in wound contraction, achieving an impressive rate of 82% within 21 days. Additionally, the lipidic extract of Dittrichia viscosa displayed notable efficacy against various microbial strains, including Candida albicans (25.07 ± 0.2), Candida glabrata (24 ± 0.6), and Malassezia furfur (22 ± 0.7). The primary fatty acids identified in the sample were linolenic acid (58.95% ± 0), oleic acid (16.75% ±0.04), and linoleic acid (11.97% ± 0.1). Notably, the sample contained significant amounts of γ-Tocopherols (732.08 ± 21mg/kg), while the sterol fraction primarily consisted of 7-Campesterol (1937 ± 0 mg/kg), 7-β-Sitosterol (1621 ± 0 mg/kg), and Stigmasterol (1439 ± 26 mg/kg). By its richness in active compound content, Dittrichia viscosa effectively accelerates wound healing while safeguarding against microbial infections.

[Experimental Study of Using Aloe Vera Gel to Treat Diabetic Chronic Cutaneous Ulcers in Bama Miniature Pigs]

Objective

To investigate the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of topical application of aloe vera gel (AVG) to treat diabetic chronic cutaneous ulcers in Bama miniature pigs.

Methods

The Bama miniature pig model of diabetic chronic skin wounds was constructed and the model pigs were randomly assigned to AVG daily administration group (AVG QD), aloe vera gel every-other-day administration group (AVG QOD), and diabetic control group (DC). A non-diabetic chronic skin wounds model pig was set as the non-diabetic control group (NDC). Treatment efficacy was evaluated based on the amount of time needed for complete healing of the wounds, healing rates, granulation growth rates, and skin histopathological changes. Safety was evaluated according to whether adverse reactions were observed. In addition, the dynamic changes of the relative expression levels of miR21, miR29a, miR126, miR146a, miR155, and miR210 in wound granulation tissues were examined.

Results

1) Efficacy and safety: The amount of time needed for complete healing of the wounds was shorter in the NDC group than those of the three other groups, DC group, AVG QD group, and AVG QOD group (all P<0.05). The amount of time needed for complete healing of the wounds was shorter in the AVG QD group and AVG QOD group than that of DC group (all P<0.05). The amount of time needed for complete healing of the wounds was shorter in the AVG QOD group than that of AVG QD group (all P<0.05). No adverse reactions were detected in the whole process of AVG topical treatment. The granulation growth rate of NDC group was higher than those of DC group, AVG QD group, and AVG QOD group (all P<0.05). The wound healing rate of NDC group was higher than those of DC group, AVG QD group, and AVG QOD group (all P<0.05); the wound healing rate of AVG QOD group was higher than those of DC group and AVG QD group (all P<0.05). 2) Histopathology: The results of HE staining light microscopy showed that collagen fiber production increased, and that microvascular formation with slight inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the dermal interstitium at the initial stage of wound healing after AVG treatment. One year of after complete healing, pathological examination results of wound healing skin showed that the epidermal keratinization was complete, that collagen was arranged neatly and orderly, and that many microvessels were found in the interstitium. The results of picric acid celestite scarlet staining showed that, after AVG treatment, type Ⅰ collagen mainly increased in the initial stage of wound healing, type Ⅲ collagen gradually increased when the wound healed completely, and the collagen was arranged neatly during the whole process. 3) The relative expression of microRNAs: The relative expression of miR21, miR126, and miR210 in NDC group, AVG QD group, and AVG QOD group were higher than that in DC group (all P<0.05). The relative expression of miR29a and miR155 in NDC group, AVG QD group, and AVG QOD group was lower than that in DC group (all P<0.05). The relative expression of miR146a in NDC group was higher than that in DC group ( P<0.05).

Conclusion

AVG topical application can shorten the time needed for complete healing of diabetic chronic wounds in Bama minipigs. The wound healing speed of the alternate-day treatment group was faster than that of the daily treatment group. No adverse reactions were observed over the course of the treatment. The mechanism may be related to the up-regulation of the expressions of miR21, miR126, and miR210 and the down-regulation of miR29a and miR155 in wound granulation tissue.

Development of Biodegradable/Biocompatible Nanoliposome-Encapsulated Antimicrobial Essential Oils for Topical Creams and Gels

Nanoencapsulation with safe materials improves delivery, stability, and activity of bioactive components. We report a novel safe, and effective method for the development of encapsulated antimicrobial essential oils (EO) for topical creams and gels. The method developed features three aspects that, to our knowledge, had not been previously demonstrated: (1) use of novel liposomes (LPs) to encapsulate EOs, (2) use of the EOs to replace synthetic organic solvents that are potentially toxic and/or leave harmful residues, and (3) an encapsulation process at temperatures below the boiling point of water. The LPs were made from soy lecithin, phytosterol, and α-tocopherol (vitamin E) that were synthesized using the EOs as the solvent. The liposomes were converted to nanoliposomes (NLPs) through a series of sonication, homogenization, and extrusion steps. Transmission electron microscopy indicated that the NLPs alone and nanoliposome encapsulated EOs (NLP-EOs) were spherical in shape with sizes ranging between 50 and 115 nm diameter and with negative zeta potentials ranging from -34 to -43 mV. There was no significant heavy metal contamination [As, Pb, Cd, Hg] based on inductively coupled plasma (ICP) mass spectrometry MS analyses. Nearly complete EO encapsulation (95% encapsulation efficiency) was achieved and confirmed by GC/MS. Three of the NLP-EOs made of various essential oils were used to make topical formulations (cream and gel) which exhibited antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli (Gram negative) and Bacillus subtilis (Gram positive) bacteria. The creams with NLP-EOs were as active against the two bacteria in the antimicrobial assays as the conventional antibiotic Kanamycin that was used as positive control.

Effectiveness of Dietary Supplement for Skin Moisturizing in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

The dietary supplement industry offers many oral cosmetics that purportedly assist in skin moisturization often with unclear evidence supporting efficacy and safety. To update the accessible proofs pertaining to the safety and effectiveness of oral dietary supplements to facilitate skin moisturizing via an all-around review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Three on-line databases [Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL)] were retrieved from January 2000 to November 2021. An overall 66 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of skin care were recognized. Meta-analysis was performed for dietary supplements with four or more available research.

Results

Oral collagen or ceramide resulted in a statistically significant increase in skin hydration and a decrease in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) compared to placebo. No benefits regarding the improvement of skin conditions in terms of water content and TEWL were observed for lactic acid bacteria or Lactobacillus fermented foods. A statistically significant and positive effect on skin hydration was observed for both hyaluronan and procyanidin, with an unknown effect on TEWL due to insufficient RCTs. There was a non-significant improvement in the water content of stratum corneum for astaxanthin based on subgroup analyses. Among the dietary supplements trialed in ≤ 3 RCTs, the judgment regarding their effects on skin moisturizing was prevented by inconsistent conclusions as well as insufficient research. All food supplements were safe throughout the research (normally ≤ 24 weeks).

Conclusion

Oral dietary supplements, including collagen, ceramides, hyaluronan, and procyanidin, were proven to be effective for skin moisturization. At present, for skin moisturization, the proofs supporting the recommendation of other dietary supplements, such as lactic acid bacteria and astaxanthin, are insufficient.

Systematic Review Registration

http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ identifier CRD42021290818.

Aloe vera and Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is defined as prolonged hyperglycemia, which can harm the eyes, kidneys, and cardiovascular and neurological systems. Herbal agents and their derived supplements have been used for treatment of diabetes mellitus as a part of integrated complementary medicine for centuries. Numerous studies have considered Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f, Xanthorrhoeaceae, as an alternative medicine due to its abundant bioactive chemicals, such as alkaloids, anthraquinones, and enthrones, with therapeutical properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuro-protective, and anti-diabetic effects. Aloe vera has received considerable attention in traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases including diabetes mellitus. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of herbal agents on diabetes mellitus using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic model. Thereby, this article reviews the effects of Aloe vera prescription on streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus to provide a clear insight into the role of this medicinal plant in several biological functions, such as antioxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-hyperlipidemic in diabetic models.

Validation of an LC-MS/MS method for the quantitation of phytosterols derived from Aloe vera gel

A method to quantitate five minor phytosterols named Aloe sterols identified from Aloe vera gel was validated using AVGP (Aloe vera gel powder) as the sample. To measure the Aloe sterols content, AVGP was extracted with chloroform/methanol (2:1, v/v) and analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The calibration curve revealed a high coefficient of determination (>0.999). The limit of quantification was 2.3–4.1 ng/mL. Average recoveries ranged from 95 to 105%. The intra-day and inter-day precision were 2.6–6.4% and 3.8–7.3%, respectively, confirming good method precision. Aloe sterols were also quantified in AVGE (Aloe vera gel extract) using this method. We showed that the composition ratio of each Aloe sterol in AVGP did not change in AVGE. Additionally, we measured the concentration of Aloe sterols in the capsule containing AVGE, and confirmed that it was stable even after 1 year of storage.

In conclusion, a quantification method was established to simultaneously measure multiple plant sterols with similar structures.

• A quantification method to simultaneously measure several plant sterols with similar structures was established.

• Results from the intra-day precision and the inter-day precision confirmed good precision.

• This method can be applied to processed raw materials and/or foods in long-term storage.

Effects of Aloe vera in adults with mucocutaneous problems: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

To analyse the different types of Aloe vera (AV) effects on various mucocutaneous problems among adults.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

An exhaustive scanning of PubMed, Medline, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases was conducted from January 2000-December 2019.

REVIEW METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) publishing reports on the effects of AV in various mucocutaneous problems, psoriasis, burn, wound-healing were included. The standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence Intervals (CIs) were determined for the main outcomes, heterogeneity was analysed using the I² test and the risk of bias in the studies was reviewed by the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool.

RESULTS

The study included 23 trials with a total of 4,023 participants. Six trials were included in the meta-analysis. The results indicated no significant differences in pain scores as assessed by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (SMD = 0.11, 95% CI: -0.37 to 0.59). The Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores were significantly lower following AV gel application in two of the studies (SMD = -1.32 95% CI: -1.86 to -0.78). Considering results in a systematic manner, AV accelerated tissue epithelialization and wound-healing process (N = 3), reduced oral mucositis (N = 3), and improved quality of life (N = 1).

CONCLUSION

AV might have beneficial effects in reducing pain scores and the severity of mucocutaneous problems compared with placebo, especially with limited mild to moderate adverse effects.

IMPACT

AV may be used as an alternative and integrative approach to reducing symptom severity in mucocutaneous problems and the wound-healing process. High quality and well-designed RCTs are still needed to elucidate the effects of AV in a variety of dosages and forms among adults with mucocutaneous problems.

Inclusion of endophenotypes in a standard GWAS facilitate a detailed mechanistic understanding of genetic elements that control blood lipid levels

Dyslipidemia is the primary cause of cardiovascular disease, which is a serious human health problem in large parts of the world. Therefore, it is important to understand the genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate blood levels of cholesterol and other lipids. Discovery of genetic elements in the regulatory machinery is often based on genome wide associations studies (GWAS) focused on end-point phenotypes such as total cholesterol level or a disease diagnosis. In the present study, we add endophenotypes, such as serum levels of intermediate metabolites in the cholesterol synthesis pathways, to a GWAS analysis and use the pig as an animal model. We do this to increase statistical power and to facilitate biological interpretation of results. Although the study population was limited to ~ 300 individuals, we identify two genome-wide significant associations and ten suggestive associations. Furthermore, we identify 28 tentative associations to loci previously associated with blood lipids or dyslipidemia associated diseases. The associations with endophenotypes may inspire future studies that can dissect the biological mechanisms underlying these previously identified associations and add a new level of understanding to previously identified associations.

Stimulatory Effects of Paederia foetida Flower Absolute on the Skin Wound and Barrier Repair Activities of Keratinocytes

Paederia foetida (PF) has antidiarrheal, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its biological activities on skin remain unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of PF flower absolute (PFFA) on skin wound healing- and skin barrier-linked responses in human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). PFFA contained 23 components and increased the proliferation and sprout outgrowth of HaCaT cells and modestly increased migration. PFFA enhanced the phosphorylation levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2, serine/threonine-specific protein kinase (AKT), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in HaCaT cells, and upregulated type I and IV collagen synthesis and filaggrin (an epidermal barrier protein) expression in HaCaT cells. These findings suggest PFFA may promote skin wound repair by stimulating migratory and proliferative activities (probably through the AKT/MAPK pathway), collagen synthesis, and skin barrier repair by upregulating the expressions of filaggrin in epidermal keratinocytes. Therefore, PFFA may be useful for developing agents that enhance skin wound and barrier-repair functions.

Effects of low-dose Aloe sterol supplementation on skin moisture, collagen score and objective or subjective symptoms: 12-week, double-blind, randomized controlled trial

Daily oral intake of 40 μg Aloe sterol was shown in a double‐blind clinical trial to significantly increase skin barrier function, moisture and elasticity. Ultrasonographic results also suggested that the intake of Aloe sterol increases collagen content in the dermis. Here, we evaluate the effects of a much smaller dose of Aloe sterol, approximately half that used previously, on skin functions in more detail. This is a monocentric, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, supplementation study of the effects of low‐dose Aloe sterol on skin transepidermal water loss, hydration, collagen score, evaluation of objective or subjective symptoms, and safety after 12 weeks of daily intake. We randomly administrated either Aloe sterol or placebo to 122 healthy volunteers. Transepidermal water loss was significantly reduced and collagen score was increased in the Aloe sterol group compared with the placebo group at week 12. In the Aloe sterol group, there was significant improvement of objective skin condition (face erythema and pruritus of inner and outer arms) at week 12 compared with week 0, but not in the placebo group. Subjectively, there was significant improvement of visual analog scale of skin acne, fingernail brittleness and constipation in the Aloe sterol group. According to subgroup analysis, although not planned before the study initiation, subjects with dry skin in the Aloe sterol group had significantly increased skin hydration values at week 12 compared with the placebo group. Our results confirmed that even low‐dose Aloe sterol ingestion improves skin moisture by promoting skin barrier function and dermal collagen production, which contributes to maintenance of healthy skin.

Depigmentation and Anti-aging Treatment by Natural Molecules

Natural molecules are becoming more accepted choices as cosmetic agents, many products in the market today claim to include natural components. Plants include many substances that could be of a value in the whitening of the skin and working as anti-aging agents. A wide range of articles related to natural skin whitening and anti-aging agents have been reviewed. Many plant-derived and natural molecules have shown to affect melanin synthesis by different mechanisms, examples include Arbutin, Ramulus mori extract, Licorice extract, Glabridin, Liquiritin, Kojic acid, Methyl gentisate, Aloesin, Azelaic acid, Vitamin C, Thioctic acid, Soya bean extracts, Niacinamide, α and β-hydroxy acids, Lactic acid, Chamomile extract, and Ellagic acid. Some of the widely used natural anti-aging products as natural antioxidants, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and coenzyme Q can counteract the effects of reactive oxygen species in skin cells and have anti-aging properties on the skin. It was concluded that many natural products including antioxidants can prevent UV-induced skin damage and have whitening and anti-aging effects. It is very important to develop and stabilize appropriate methods for the evaluation of the whitening and anti-aging capacity of natural products and their exact mechanism of action to ensure real efficacy based on evidence-based studies. The attention should be oriented on the formulations and the development of an appropriate vehicle to ensure suitable absorption of these natural products in addition to evaluating the suitable concentration of these molecules required having the desired effects without causing harmful side effects.

Treatment of Skin Disorders with Aloe Materials

The skin is the largest organ and functions as a barrier to protect the underlying tissues against the elements and pathogens, while also fulfilling many physiological roles and biochemical functions such as preventing excessive water loss. Skin disorders vary greatly in terms of origin, severity, symptoms and affect persons of all ages. Many plants have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times including the treatment of skin disorders and diseases. Aloe represents one of the earliest medicinal plant species mentioned in antique scriptures and even in rock art dating back thousands of years. Different Aloe species and materials have been used in the prevention and treatment of skin related disorders. Aloe vera is the most commonly used Aloe species for medicinal purposes. Some of the most prominent skin related applications and disorders that Aloe materials have been investigated for are discussed in this paper, which include cosmetic, radiation, cancer, wound and antimicrobial applications. Both in vitro and in vivo studies are included in the discussions of this paper and comprehensive summaries of all these studies are given in tables in each section. Although some contradictory results were obtained among studies, certain Aloe materials have shown excellent efficacy and exhibited potential for the treatment of skin related disorders and cosmetic applications.

Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and its Major Active Constituents

Aloe vera has been traditionally used to treat skin injuries (burns, cuts, insect bites, and eczemas) and digestive problems because its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing properties. Research on this medicinal plant has been aimed at validating traditional uses and deepening the mechanism of action, identifying the compounds responsible for these activities. The most investigated active compounds are aloe-emodin, aloin, aloesin, emodin, and acemannan. Likewise, new actions have been investigated for Aloe vera and its active compounds. This review provides an overview of current pharmacological studies (in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials), written in English during the last six years (2014–2019). In particular, new pharmacological data research has shown that most studies refer to anti-cancer action, skin and digestive protective activity, and antimicrobial properties. Most recent works are in vitro and in vivo. Clinical trials have been conducted just with Aloe vera, but not with isolated compounds; therefore, it would be interesting to study the clinical effect of relevant metabolites in different human conditions and pathologies. The promising results of these studies in basic research encourage a greater number of clinical trials to test the clinical application of Aloe vera and its main compounds, particularly on bone protection, cancer, and diabetes.

The Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Potential of Opuntia ficus indica L. inermis Extracted Oil from Tunisia

Introduction

Opuntia ficus indica L. inermis (OFI) is used in traditional medicine pharmacopeia for its richness in natural bioactive compounds. It has been proven to be effective in the improvement of the healing of laser-induced skin burns. The aim of the present study was to investigate the wound healing effect of OFI extracted oil on full-thickness skin wound.

Materials and Methods

The OFI seeds were firstly isolated from mature prickly pears, washed, dried, and then cold-pressed. The antimicrobial activities of OFI seed oil were estimated in vitro against bacteria, yeast, and fungi. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimal Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were calculated. Skin wound healing was investigated using an excisional wound healing model in rats. The skin wounds of three experimental groups of rats were topically treated once/day with saline solution (control group), 0.15 mg/mm² of a reference drug Esth'Elle Pharma Cicaplaie cream (reference group), and 0.6 μl/mm² of OFI seed oil (OFI oil group). The healing process was monitored daily and the percentage of wound contraction was calculated. A histological study was carried on skin biopsies.

Results

The extracted oil has shown an interesting antimicrobial effect on Enterobacter cloacae, antiyeast effect against Candida parapsilosis and Candida sake, and antifungal activity against three opportunistic cutaneous molds (Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Fusarium). Moreover, OFI oil has shown a good wound healing effect. It prevents cutaneous infections and reduces the reepithelialization phase.

Conclusion

OFI extracted oil has in vitro antimicrobial/fungal properties and in vivo wound healing activity. It seems to be efficient in the treatment of cutaneous infections and the promoting of the scarring process.

Medicinal Plant Extracts and Their Use As Wound Closure Inducing Agents

Skin insult and damage start a complex healing process that involves a myriad of coordinated reactions at both the cellular and molecular level occurring simultaneously. These processes can be divided into that of cell migration and tissue remodeling of the wound. In addition, it is well known that deep wounds that derive from surgical procedures need a multidisciplinary approach to have a successful wound healing process. Recently, there has been a renowned interest in the identification of active compounds derived from ornamental, edible, and wild plants being used in the cosmetic and skin product industry. Recent reports suggest that active components of several plants such as Propolis and Aloe vera could be used to induce the process of wound healing and tissue regeneration and reducing therefore the time to complete wound closure. Other plant species such as Achillea millefolium or Salvia officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties and promote cellular proliferation contributing to faster tissue regeneration. It has been described that Malva sylvestris influences the formation of fibrosis-free granulation tissue in the skin. Recent observations suggest that Casearia sylvestris induces the angiogenic process. These effects have been evaluated in cell lines, different animal models, and some in randomized clinical trials. In this review we summarize the evidence of plant extracts and their active components (when known) in the acceleration of the wound closure process and tissue repair.

Fabrication and Characterization of Core-Shell Electrospun Fibrous Mats Containing Medicinal Herbs for Wound Healing and Skin Tissue Engineering

Nanofibrous structures mimicking the native extracellular matrix have attracted considerable attention for biomedical applications. The present study aims to design and produce drug-eluting core-shell fibrous scaffolds for wound healing and skin tissue engineering. Aloe vera extracts were encapsulated inside polymer fibers containing chitosan, polycaprolactone, and keratin using the co-axial electrospinning technique. Electron microscopic studies show that continuous and uniform fibers with an average diameter of 209 ± 47 nm were successfully fabricated. The fibers have a core-shell structure with a shell thickness of about 90 nm, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. By employing Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, the characteristic peaks of Aloe vera were detected, which indicate successful incorporation of this natural herb into the polymeric fibers. Tensile testing and hydrophilicity measurements indicated an ultimate strength of 5.3 MPa (elongation of 0.63%) and water contact angle of 89°. In-vitro biological assay revealed increased cellular growth and adhesion with the presence of Aloe vera without any cytotoxic effects. The prepared core-shell fibrous mats containing medical herbs have a great potential for wound healing applications.

Nutraceuticals: A Review

Skin aging is continuously influenced by various internal and external factors such as the biologic progression of cells, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, tobacco, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances that lead to the degradation of skin cells. Through the degradation of skin cells, free radicals and inflammation weaken repair mechanisms and result in collagen and elastic fiber breakdown. The appearance of aging skin is highlighted by skin roughness, wrinkling, pigmentation change, telangiectasias, loss of elasticity, and decreased firmness, all of which are accelerated by these internal and external factors. Throughout the years, nutraceuticals have been studied to delay and fight against these internal and external factors, many of which are found in foods and byproducts consumed naturally. The aim of this review is to aid dermatologists in understanding the mechanism of action of popular nutraceuticals and their possible efficacy in antiaging and skin health.

Protective effects of Aloe sterols against UVB-induced photoaging in hairless mice

BACKGROUND

Aloe vera is a traditional medical plant whose gel has been widely used in skin care. Previously, we have identified Aloe sterols from Aloe vera as active ingredients. This study investigated the protective effects of Aloe sterols without polysaccharides, against ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced skin photoaging in mice using Aloe vera gel extract (AVGE) obtained by supercritical fluid extraction.

METHODS

Aloe vera gel extract was supplemented in the diet (12 or 120 ppm), and HR-1 hairless mice were exposed to UVB irradiation for 7 weeks. Skin measurements and histological and analytical studies were performed.

RESULTS

Repeated UVB irradiation induced rough wrinkling of skin with water content reduction and hyperkeratosis. AVGE administration resulted in the significant improvement of UVB-induced skin dryness, epidermal thickness, and wrinkle formation. The AVGE group also suppressed the degenerations of dermal collagen fibers and the appearance of cutaneous apoptosis cells induced by UVB. Furthermore, AVGE administration reduced the excess elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-12, and MMP-13) in UVB-exposed skin.

CONCLUSION

The dietary ingestion of Aloe sterols protected against chronic UVB damage in mouse skin, and our results suggest that Aloe sterols may prevent skin photoaging through the anti-inflammation and MMP regulation.

Aloe sterol supplementation improves skin elasticity in Japanese men with sunlight-exposed skin: a 12-week double-blind, randomized controlled trial

Background/objective

Recently, it was confirmed that the daily oral intake of plant sterols of Aloe vera gel (Aloe sterol) significantly increases the skin barrier function, moisture, and elasticity in photoprotected skin. This study aimed to investigate whether Aloe sterol intake affected skin conditions following sunlight exposure in Japanese men.

Methods

We performed a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of oral Aloe sterol supplementation on skin conditions in 48 apparently healthy men (age range: 30–59 years; average: 45 years). The subjects were instructed to expose the measurement position of the arms to the sunlight outdoors every day for 12 weeks. The skin parameters were measured at 0 (baseline), 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

Results

Depending on the time for the revelation of the sunlight, the b* value and melanin index increased and the skin moisture decreased. After taking an Aloe sterol tablet daily for 12 weeks, the skin elasticity index (R2, R5, and R7) levels were significantly higher than the baseline value. There were no differences between the groups in these skin elasticity values. In the subgroup analysis of subjects aged <46 years, the change in the R5 and R7 was significantly higher in the Aloe group than in the placebo group at 8 weeks (P=0.0412 and P=0.0410, respectively). There was a difference in the quantity of sun exposure between each subject, and an additional clinical study that standardizes the amount of ultraviolet rays is warranted. No Aloe sterol intake-dependent harmful phenomenon was observed during the intake period.

Conclusion

Aloe sterol ingestion increased skin elasticity in the photodamaged skin of men aged <46 years.

Therapeutic effects of Aloe spp. in traditional and modern medicine: A review

Traditional medicine is a useful guide in medical sciences. In the Islamic Iranian traditional medicine, the medicinal properties of many plants have been mentioned that could be exploited in drug discovery. We aimed to explore the nature and properties of Aloe spp. As described in some major Islamic traditional texts including Ferdows al-Hekmah fi'l-Tibbe (The Paradise of Wisdom in Medicine), Al-Hawi fi'l-Tibb (Comprehensive Book of Medicine), Kamel al-Sanaat al-Tibbyyah (Complete Book of the Medical Art), Al-Qanun fi'l-Tibb (Canon of Medicine), Zakhireh Kharazmshahi (Treasure of Kharazmshah), and Makhzan al-Adwiah (Drug Treasure), and assess the conformity of traditional medicine instructions with the findings of modern pharmacological studies. Gastrointestinal activities, hepato-protective properties, beneficial effects against skin problems such as wounds, injuries, and infective diseases are among the most frequently mentioned properties of Aloe spp. Several activities of Aloe spp. described in traditional medicine have been the subject of recent in vitro and in vivo studies as well as clinical trials. Owing to the positive findings, different preparations of Aloe spp. are now present in pharmaceutical markets such as Aloe cosmetic products. On the other hand, there are many traditional therapeutic effects of Aloe spp. which have not been studied and require confirmatory experimental or clinical investigations. It is hoped that the present study could stimulate further research on the unexplored aspects of the medicinal properties of Aloe spp.

Current application of phytocompound-based nanocosmeceuticals for beauty and skin therapy

Phytocompounds have been used in cosmeceuticals for decades and have shown potential for beauty applications, including sunscreen, moisturizing and antiaging, and skin-based therapy. The major concerns in the usage of phyto-based cosmeceuticals are lower penetration and high compound instability of various cosmetic products for sustained and enhanced compound delivery to the beauty-based skin therapy. To overcome these disadvantages, nanosized delivery technologies are currently in use for sustained and enhanced delivery of phyto-derived bioactive compounds in cosmeceutical sectors and products. Nanosizing of phytocompounds enhances the aseptic feel in various cosmeceutical products with sustained delivery and enhanced skin protecting activities. Solid lipid nanoparticles, transfersomes, ethosomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, fullerenes, and carbon nanotubes are some of the emerging nanotechnologies currently in use for their enhanced delivery of phytocompounds in skin care. Aloe vera, curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, vitamins C and E, genistein, and green tea catechins were successfully nanosized using various delivery technologies and incorporated in various gels, lotions, and creams for skin, lip, and hair care for their sustained effects. However, certain delivery agents such as carbon nanotubes need to be studied for their roles in toxicity. This review broadly focuses on the usage of phytocompounds in various cosmeceutical products, nanodelivery technologies used in the delivery of phytocompounds to various cosmeceuticals, and various nanosized phytocompounds used in the development of novel nanocosmeceuticals to enhance skin-based therapy.

Medical cell technologies for treatment of patients suffering from recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Method of intracutaneous administration of fibroblasts

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a severe inherited disease developing due to genetic abnormalities in the synthesis of Type VII collagen by fibroblasts. A low production rate of Type VII collagen and abnormalities related to the formation of anchoring fibrils weaken the epidermis and derma adhesion strength, which results in the formation of blisters or erosions in case of any mechanical injury. Fibroblasts and keratinocytes belong to the key sources of Type VII collagen in the skin. Application of allogeneic fibroblasts is a promising cell technique for treating RDEB patients. The therapeutic effect of fibroblasts intradermal administration is stipulated by high stability of newly synthesized Type VII collagen and its ability to form anchoring fibrils in the area of the dermoepidermal junction. According to experimental and clinical studies, it is possible to boost the content of Type VII collagen in the dermoepidermal junction area and heal long-term skin defects in RDEB patients by means of intradermal administration of allogeneic fibroblasts.