Efficacy of probiotics in hair growth and dandruff control: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Probiotics are intellectually rewarding for the discovery of their potential as a source of functional food. Investigating the economic and beauty sector dynamics, this study conducted a comprehensive review of scholarly articles to evaluate the capacity of probiotics to promote hair growth and manage dandruff.

Methods

We used the PRISMA 2020 with Embase, Pubmed, ClinicalTrials.gov, Scopus, and ICTRP databases to investigate studies till May 2023. Meta-analyses utilizing the random effects model were used with odds ratios (OR) and standardized mean differences (SMD).

Result

Meta-analysis comprised eight randomized clinical trials and preclinical studies. Hair growth analysis found a non-significant improvement in hair count (SMD = 0.32, 95 % CI -0.10 to 0.75) and a significant effect on thickness (SMD = 0.92, 95 % CI 0.47 to 1.36). In preclinical studies, probiotics significantly induced hair follicle count (SMD = 3.24, 95 % CI 0.65 to 5.82) and skin thickness (SMD = 2.32, 95 % CI 0.47 to 4.17). VEGF levels increased significantly (SMD = 2.97, 95 % CI 0.80 to 5.13), while IGF-1 showed a non-significant inducement (SMD = 0.53, 95 % CI -4.40 to 5.45). For dandruff control, two studies demonstrated non-significant improvement in adherent dandruff (OR = 1.31, 95 % CI 0.13-13.65) and a significant increase in free dandruff (OR = 5.39, 95 % CI 1.50-19.43). Hair follicle count, VEGF, IGF-1, and adherent dandruff parameters were recorded with high heterogeneity. For the systematic review, probiotics have shown potential in improving hair growth and controlling dandruff through modulation of the immune pathway and gut-hair axis. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway, IGF-1 pathway, and VEGF are key molecular pathways in regulating hair follicle growth and maintenance.

Conclusions

This review found significant aspects exemplified by the properties of probiotics related to promoting hair growth and anti-dandruff effect, which serve as a roadmap for further in-depth studies to make it into pilot scales.

The effects of Jawoongo soap on skin improvement

BACKGROUND

Jawoongo is used to treat and prevent skin issues such as dry and keratinization disorders, burns, trauma, pigmentation, scarring, and inflammatory skin conditions. In this study, the efficacy and safety of 0.47% Jawoongo extract-containing soap (JAUN-CS) were assessed in terms of skin improvement effects such as cleansing, moisturizing, sebum secretion management, and skin elasticity enhancement.

METHODS

Twenty healthy adult men and women aged 20-60 years old took part in the study. Before and after using JAUN-CS, the participants were divided into groups, and various skin improvement effects were measured utilizing machines such as the Corneometer, Tewameter TM 300, and Visioscan. A dermatologist analyzed the product's safety in accordance with Frosch & Kligman and the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA) rules.

RESULTS

Using JAUN reduced the amount of base and point makeup by 25.7% and 76.7%, respectively. Also, JAUN showed a great facial exfoliation effect by removing the old and lifted skin keratins by 84.7% and 20.3%, respectively. Impurities in facial pores decreased by 58%, too. Furthermore, JAUN increased the moisture content of deep skin and skin surface by 3.5% and 74.0%, and skin elasticity by 2.8%. Skin tone, skin texture, skin radiance, and skin barrier all showed improvements of 3.3%, 20.0%, 15.0%, and 115.2%, respectively. Lastly, cleansing with JAUN successfully enhanced the condition of the youth triangle by 7.6%, while TEWL significantly decreased by 52.7%. Neither the JAUN nor the control group soap showed any adverse reactions, such as erythema or allergies, during the testing period.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrated that JAUN is safe for human use and has various skin-improving properties, making Jawoongo a promising natural material for the development of functional cosmetics in the future.

A study of anti-wrinkle functions and improvement of cream with Phaseolus angularis

Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight accelerates skin ageing, which is followed by harsh, thick, dry and loose conditions. One of the most demonstrative symptoms is deep wrinkles induced by skin barrier disruption. Our previous research showed that Phaseolus angularis seed extract (PASE) effectively inhibits skin ageing through UVB protection in HaCaT cells by suppressing skin damage. However, its efficacy has not been evaluated in clinical trials so far. PASE cream's effectiveness was initially tested on the artificial skin model, revealing an increase in filaggrin and defence against skin damage. Based on these results, in this single-centred, randomized, double-blind study, we investigated the anti-ageing effect of PASE in human eye wrinkle areas. For these 21 healthy adult women aged 30 to 59, a PASE cream was applied to the right eye wrinkle area and a placebo to the left eye wrinkle area twice a day (morning and evening) for 12 weeks. The change in thick, deep crease wrinkles around the eyes was confirmed by visual evaluation, skin measurements and a questionnaire. As a result, the surface roughness (R1), maximum roughness (R2), average roughness (R3), smoothness depth (R4) and arithmetic mean roughness (R5) values in the group using the PASE cream all decreased. Particularly, R1, R4 and R5 significantly decreased by 18.1%, 18.6% and 25.0%, respectively. Subjects who applied PASE cream also experienced an improvement in skin moisture nearly twice the time compared to the placebo group. In addition, no participants reported side effects. Our study showed that PASE cream led to clinically significant levels of wrinkle improvement. In conclusion, as PASE is a natural, safe food with no side effects, it can be a good resource for natural anti-wrinkle functional cosmetics in the future.

Human Milk-Derived Enterococcus faecalis HM20: A Potential Alternative Agent of Antimicrobial Effect against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

The increasing global impact of skin diseases, fueled by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), emphasizes the necessity for alternative therapies with lower toxicity, such as lactic acid bacteria (LAB). This study aims to isolate potential LAB from human milk and evaluate their efficacy against MRSA using various methods, including well diffusion, microdilution, crystal violet assay, enzymatic characterization, SDS-PAGE, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Among the 26 LAB screened, the human milk-derived strain HM20 exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against S. aureus CCARM 3089 (MRSA), which is a highly resistant skin pathogen. Through 16S rRNA sequencing, strain HM20 was identified as closely related to Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 19433T, which was subsequently designated as Enterococcus faecalis HM20. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of HM20 against S. aureus KCTC 3881 and S. aureus CCARM 3089 was determined to be 6.25% and 12.5%, respectively. Furthermore, the effective inhibition of biofilm formation in S. aureus KCTC 3881 and S. aureus CCARM 3089 was observed at concentrations of 12.5% and 25% or higher, respectively. The antibacterial effect of the CFS was attributed to the presence of organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins. Additionally, the antimicrobial peptides produced by HM20 were found to be stable under heat treatment and analyzed to have a size below 5 kDa. SEM image observations confirmed that the CFS of HM20 caused damage to the cell wall, forming pores and wrinkles on S. aureus KCTC 3881 and S. aureus CCARM 3089. This comprehensive investigation on strain HM20 conducted in this study provides foundational data for potential developments in functional materials aimed at addressing skin infections and antibiotic-resistant strains in the future.

Photoprotective effects of Lithospermum erythrorhizon and Pueraria lobata extracts on UVB-induced photoaging: A study on skin barrier protection

AIM

Lithospermum erythrorhizon and Pueraria lobata exhibit promising potential as cosmetic additives for mitigating skin barrier impairment induced by photoaging. Despite their potential, the precise mechanisms underlying their protective and ameliorative effects remain elusive. This study sought to assess the reparative properties of Lithospermum erythrorhizon and Pueraria lobata extracts (LP) on UVB-irradiated human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) and explore the therapeutic potential of LP as a skin barrier protection agent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antioxidant activities were gauged through 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays. The expression levels of skin barrier-related markers, encompassing metalloproteinases (MMPs) and hyaluronidase (HYAL) were scrutinized using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR, and Western blotting, with a particular focus on the involvement of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/Smad and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways.

RESULTS

The study revealed that LP effectively scavenges free radicals, diminishes ROS production in a dose-dependent manner, and significantly attenuates UVB-induced expression of MMP-1 and MMP-3 through modulation of the hyaluronan synthase (HAS)2/HYAL1 signaling axis in UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells. Additionally, LP demonstrated enhanced TGF-β signaling activation, fostering procollagen type I synthesis, and concurrently exhibited mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)/NF-κB signaling inactivation, thereby mitigating pro-inflammatory cytokine release and alleviating UVB-induced cellular damage.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the observed protective effects of LP on skin cellular constituents highlight its substantial biological potential for shielding against UVB-induced skin photoaging, positioning it as a promising candidate for both pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications.

Current Fungal Taxonomy and Developments in the Identification System

A functional identification system is the core and basis of fungal taxonomy, which provides sufficient diagnostic characteristics for species delimitation. Phenotype-based identification systems have exhibited significant drawbacks, such as being laborious and time-consuming. Thus, a molecular-based identification system (rDNA, DNA fingerprint, etc.) is proposed for application to fungi that lack reliable morphological characteristics. High Throughput Sequencing also makes great contributions to fungal taxonomy. However, the formal naming of nonculturable fungi from environmental sequencing is a significant challenge. Biochemical profile-based identification systems have outstanding value in fungal taxonomy and can occasionally be indispensable. This method utilizes biomarker metabolites and proteins that are expected to be unequivocal and stable. Of these, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry has become the method of choice for chemotaxonomy. In sum, these described identification systems cannot solve all problems of species delimitation, and considerable attention to the updating of fungal nomenclature, standardization of techniques, knowledge sharing, and dissemination will be necessary.

Rosa davurica Inhibited Allergic Mediators by Regulating Calcium and Histamine Signaling Pathways

Rosa davurica Pall. exhibits antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties; however, its pharmacological mechanism in allergy is yet to be understood. This study confirmed the effects of R. davurica Pall. leaf extract (RLE) on allergy as a new promising material. To evaluate the therapeutic potential of RLE against allergy, we investigated the effects of RLE on the regulatory β-hexosaminidase, histamine, histidine decarboxylase (HDC), Ca²⁺ influx, nitric oxide (NO), and cytokines induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and DNP-IgE/BSA in Raw 264.7 and RBL-2H3 cells. Furthermore, we examined the effects of RLE on the signaling pathways of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Ca²⁺ pathways. After stimulating Raw 264.7 cells with LPS, RLE reduced the release of inflammatory mediators, such as NO, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, inducible nitric oxygen synthase (iNOS), interleukin (IL)-1β, -6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Also, RLE reduced the β-hexosaminidase, histamine, HDC, Ca²⁺ influx, Ca²⁺ pathways, and phosphorylation of MAPK in DNP-IgE/BSA-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. Our studies indicated that RLE is a valuable ingredient for treating allergic diseases by regulating cytokine release from macrophages and mast cell degranulation. Consequently, these results suggested that RLE may serve as a possible alternative promising material for treating allergies.

Anti-Photoaging Effect of Phaseolus angularis L. Extract on UVB-Exposed HaCaT Keratinocytes and Possibilities as Cosmetic Materials

Phaseolus angularis L. is widely cultivated and is considered a superfood because of its nutritious protein and starch contents. Nevertheless, P. angularis's effects on skin photoaging are unknown. The aim of this study was to research the effects of P. angularis seed extract (PASE) on photoaging in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) damaged by UVB radiation so as to find out whether PASE can be used as an effective anti-photoaging ingredient in cosmetic products. The antioxidant activities were assessed using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis was used to determine the change in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, and MMP-3. The protein levels of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/activator protein (AP)-1, transforming growth factor beta (TGF)-β/suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad), and NF-E2-related factor (Nrf)2/antioxidant response element (ARE) were measured by western blot. As a result, PASE increased DPPH and ABTS antioxidant activities in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, PASE treatment (100 µg/mL) significantly reverted the damage induced by UVB (125 mJ/cm²) irradiation by downregulating ROS, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, and MMP-3 secretion and expression and increasing procollagen type I production. To suppress MMP-1 and MMP-3 secretion, PASE significantly decreased UVB-induced p38 and JNK phosphorylation and phosphorylated c-Fos and c-Jun nuclear translocation. PASE promoted collagen I production by inhibiting UVB-induced TGF-β activation and Smad7 overexpression; antioxidant properties also arose from the stimulation of the Nrf2-dependent expression of the antioxidant enzymes heme oxygenase (HO)-1 and quinone oxidoreductase (NQO)-1. Our data demonstrated that PASE has the potential to prevent ROS formation induced by UVB exposure by targeting specific pathways. Thus, PASE might be a potent anti-photoaging component to exploit in developing anti-aging products.

Rosa davurica inhibits skin photoaging via regulating MAPK/AP-1, NF-κB, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in UVB-irradiated HaCaTs

Rosa davurica is widely used to treat various kinds of diseases because of its high antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities. This use of plant-based materials as medicine is called phytomedicine and has been widely practiced since time immemorial. However, the pharmacological mechanism of R. davurica in skin photoaging is not yet fully understood. Therefore, this study was carried out to evaluate the recovery effects of R. davurica leaf extracts (RDE) in UVB-irradiated human skin keratinocytes (HaCaTs) and investigate whether RDE is a potential therapeutic agent against skin photoaging. The expression of aging-related markers including mitogen-activated protein kinases/activator protein 1 (MAPK/AP-1), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) was evaluated using Western blot analysis. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) was also used by FACS in HaCaTs. Findings indicated that RDE is efficient in scavenging free radicals and dose-dependently reducing ROS generation. Furthermore, RDE notably decreased UVB-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression through inhibition of MAPK/AP-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways as well as induced blocking of extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation in UVB-irradiated HaCaTs. In addition, RDE improved Nrf2/HO-1 signaling that increases oxidative defense capacity and enhances transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling activation to promote procollagen type I synthesis, relieving UVB-induced skin cell damage. In conclusion, the protective effects of RDE on skin cellular components suggest that it has a high biological potential for skin protection from UVB-induced skin photoaging and is a good candidate for drug and cosmetic application.

Antiphotoaging Effects of Damiana (Turnera diffusa) Leaves Extract via Regulation AP-1 and Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathways

Damiana (Turnera diffusa), of the family Passifloraceae, has been widely studied for its pharmacological effects, especially for antioxidant and antibacterial actions. However, there are limited scientific findings describing its antiphotoaging effects on the skin. In the present study, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the protective effect of Damiana were investigated in keratinocytes (HaCaTs) and normal human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) subject to UVB irradiation. The mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and procollagen type I was determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The protein expression of antiphotoaging-related signaling molecules in the activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) pathways was assessed by Western blotting. We observed that Damiana blocked the upregulated production of reactive oxygen species induced in UVB-irradiated HaCaTs and HDFs in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with Damiana also significantly ameliorated the mRNA expression of MMPs and procollagen type I. In addition, the phosphorylation level of c-Jun and c-Fos was also decreased through the attenuated expression of p-38, p-ERK, and p-JNK after treatment with Damiana. Furthermore, the treatment of cells with Damiana resulted in the inhibition of Smad-7 expression in the TGF-β/Smad pathway and upregulated the expression of the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway. Hence, the synthesis of procollagen type I, a precursor of collagen I, was promoted. Collectively, these results provide us with the novel insight that Damiana is a potential source of antiphotoaging compounds.

The Immune-Enhancing Properties of Hwanglyeonhaedok-Tang-Mediated Biosynthesized Gold Nanoparticles in Macrophages and Splenocytes

Background

Despite great advances in the field of immunotherapy, there is still a need for novel and effective immunostimulants to overcome challenges, such as instability and autoinflammatory toxicity, associated with conventional immunostimulants. Nanotechnology provides the possibility to overcome these challenges. The well-known classical Chinese formula, Hwanglyeonhaedok-tang (HHT) has been widely used to treat immune-related diseases in clinical practice.

Methods

We developed novel gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) utilizing one-pot synthesis with the herbal formula-HHT. The optimal conditions for HHT-AuNP biosynthesis were established, and physicochemical properties of the optimized HHT-AuNPs were identified using various spectrometric and microscopic techniques. Bio-TEM analysis revealed that HHT-AuNPs were highly engulfed within RAW264.7 cells without inducing cytotoxicity. The effect of HHT-AuNPs on immunostimulatory activity was evaluated in innate and adaptive immune cells (RAW264.7 macrophages and ICR mice splenocytes) using qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, and ELISA.

Results

The HHT-AuNPs remarkably increased the nitric oxide (NO) and immune-related cytokines production by activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways in RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, HHT-AuNPs exerted immunostimulatory effects on mouse splenocytes by priming T/B-cells and macrophages.

Discussion

The present study is the first to demonstrate that HHT-AuNPs could be utilized as immunostimulators to activate both innate and adaptive immune systems. These results provide a foundation for the application of traditional Chinese medicinal formulae in the field of nanomedicine.

Identification of Chinese green tea (Camellia sinensis) marker metabolites using GC/MS and UPLC-QTOF/MS

Tea is one of the most widely consumed aromatic beverages in the world because of its taste and flavor, as well as due to many potential health beneficial properties. Metabolomics focuses on an in-depth analysis of all metabolites in living organisms. In this study, 29 primary metabolites and 25 secondary metabolites were identified using GC/MS and UPLC-QTOF/MS, respectively. Further, PCA analysis showed conspicuous discrimination for the ten varieties of green tea with metabolite profiling. Among them, organic acids, amino acids, flavan-3-ols, and flavonol glycosides varied greatly through checking the VIP values of the PLS-DA model. Moreover, the intrinsic and/or extrinsic factors characterizing each type of green tea were also discussed. The chemical component marker derived here should be used as an important detection index, while evaluating the tea quality, as well as while establishing the tea quality standard.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-021-00970-4.

Camu-Camu Fruit Extract Inhibits Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Responses by Regulating NFAT and Nrf2 Signaling Pathways in High Glucose-Induced Human Keratinocytes

Myrciaria dubia (HBK) McVaugh (camu-camu) belongs to the family Myrtaceae. Although camu-camu has received a great deal of attention for its potential pharmacological activities, there is little information on the anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory effects of camu-camu fruit in skin diseases. In the present study, we investigated the preventative effect of 70% ethanol camu-camu fruit extract against high glucose-induced human keratinocytes. High glucose-induced overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was inhibited by camu-camu fruit treatment. In response to ROS reduction, camu-camu fruit modulated the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)/activator protein-1 (AP-1), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) signaling pathways related to inflammation by downregulating the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Furthermore, camu-camu fruit treatment activated the expression of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and subsequently increased the NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase1 (NQO1) expression to protect keratinocytes against high-glucose-induced oxidative stress. These results indicate that camu-camu fruit is a promising material for preventing oxidative stress and skin inflammation induced by high glucose level.

Volatile Profiles of Five Variants of Abeliophyllum distichum Flowers Using Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) Analysis

Abeliophyllum distichum (Oleaceae), which is the only species in the monotypic genus and is grown only on the Korean peninsula, has a high scarcity value. Its five variants (white, pink, round, blue, and ivory) have different morphological characteristics in terms of the color of petals and sepals or shape of the fruits. Despite its high value, there has been no study on variant classification except in terms of their morphological characteristics. Thus, we performed a volatile component analysis of A. distichum flowers and multivariate data analyses to reveal the relationship between fragments emitted from five variants of A. distichum flowers with their morphological characteristics. As a result, 66 volatile components of this plant were identified by headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS), showing unique patterns for each set of morphological characteristics, especially the color of the petals. These results suggest that morphological characteristics of each variant are related to the volatile composition.

Anti-inflammatory Effects of Achillea millefolium on Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions in NC/Nga Mice

Achillea millefolium L. (AM) is an aromatic herb with a variety of pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities. However, AM's effects on atopic dermatitis (AD) have not been investigated. This study evaluates the anti-AD activity of 50% ethanol-extracted AM in murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells, in tumor necrosis factor-alpha/interferon-gamma (TNF-[Formula: see text]/IFN-[Formula: see text])-stimulated human immortal keratinocyte HaCaT cells in vitro, and in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga mice in vivo. The results showed that AM significantly downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as INOS, COX-2, and interleukin (IL)-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated Raw 264.7 cells. The mRNA expressions of INOS, COX-2, and IL-6 decreased by 76.1%, 69.3%, and 31.8%, respectively. Overexpression of chemokines, such as activation-regulated chemokine and macrophage-derived chemokine, regulated on activation of normal T-cell expressed and secreted, and IL-8 was inhibited by 70.01%, 52.91%, 73.53%, and 18.93%, respectively, in TNF-[Formula: see text]/IFN-[Formula: see text]-stimulated HaCaT cells by downregulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase, I[Formula: see text]B[Formula: see text], and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 signaling pathways. AD-like symptoms, such as elevated serum immunoglobin E levels, epidermal thickening, high dermatitis severity score, transepidermal water loss, and reduced skin hydration, were relieved by the dietary administration of AM in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga mice. In addition, filaggrin expression increased significantly in AM-treated groups. These results suggest that AM could be a useful candidate for AD treatment.

Aquitalea aquatilis sp. nov., isolated from Jungwon waterfall

A Gram-stain-negative, facultative anaerobic, motile, short rods and yellow-pigmented bacterium, designated strain THG-DN7.12^T, was isolated from water collected at Jungwon waterfall on Yongmun mountain, Republic of Korea. According to 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons, strain THG-DN7.12^T was found to be most closely related to Aquitalea denitrificans 5YN1-3^T (98.9 % sequence similarity), Aquitalea magnusonii TRO-001DR8^T (98.7 %) and Aquitalea pelogenes P1297^T (98.0 %). The DNA-DNA relatedness between strain THG-DN7.12^T and its phylogenetically closest neighbours was below 70.0 %. The strain's DNA G+C content was 59.7 mol%. The major polar lipid was found to be phosphatidylethanolamine. Summed feature 3 (C_16 : 1  ω7c and/or C_16 : 1  ω6c) and C_16 : 0 were identified as the major fatty acids. Ubiquinone Q-8 was detected as the only respiratory quinone. These data supported the affiliation of strain THG-DN7.12^T to the genus Aquitalea. Strain THG-DN7.12^T was distinguished from related Aquitalea species by physiological and biochemical tests. Therefore, the novel isolate represents a novel species, for which the name Aquitalea aquatilis sp. nov. is proposed, with THG-DN7.12^T as the type strain (=KACC 18847^T=CCTCC AB 2016185^T).

Lactobacillus paraplantarum THG-G10 as a potential anti-acne agent with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory activities

Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) is the main bacterium targeted for the prevention and medical treatment of acne vulgaris. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are a group of microorganisms classified by their ability to produce lactic acid through fermentation. Although the activities of LAB have been studied, their potential anti-acne effects are not well known. Here, Lactobacillus paraplantarum THG-G10, which has anti-bacterial activity against C. acnes, was isolated from traditional Kimchi in Republic of Korea. The anti-acne effects of dried cell-free supernatant of L. paraplantarum THG-G10 (DC-G10) were evaluated by determining its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activities. Anti-microbial activity was examined by a broth dilution assay: 25 mg/ml of DC-G10 inhibited the growth of C. acnes KCTC 5012 and KACC 1194; salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide for acne treatment inhibited the growth of C. acnes KCTC 5012 and KACC 11946 at concentrations of 1.25 and 7.5 mg/ml, respectively; and tea tree oil inhibited the growth of C. acnes KCTC 5012 but not the growth of C. acnes KACC 11946 at 50 mg/ml. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by a nitric oxide (NO) assay: only DC-G10 and ascorbic acid reduced LPS-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the toxicities of erythromycin, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, and DC-G10 were examined in HaCaT cells and normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). In these cells, the cytotoxic effects of DC-G10 were weaker than the effects of erythromycin, benzoyl peroxide, and ascorbic acid. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy revealed that DC-G10 induces deleterious morphological changes in the bacterial cell membrane. These results demonstrate that DC-G10 may be an effective and safe treatment for acne vulgaris.

Conditioned Medium from Human Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Culture Prevents UVB-Induced Skin Aging in Human Keratinocytes and Dermal Fibroblasts

Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells-conditioned medium (ADSC-CM) contains cytokines and growth factors that can facilitate the regeneration and repair of various tissues and organs. In the present study, the protective activity of ADSC-CM treatment was investigated in UVB-irradiated human keratinocyte cell line HaCaTs and normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). It was found that ADSC-CM can modulate the expression of the signaling molecules in the early UVB responsive signaling pathways, including mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs), activator protein 1 (AP-1), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). In addition, ADSC-CM treatment could upregulate antioxidant response element (ARE) such as phase II gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and increase the expression of collagen synthesis enhancer gene transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). The expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and procollagen type I synthesis inhibitors such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) was also found to be suppressed upon ADSC-CM treatment. Taken together, our study illustrates the anti-photoaging activities of ADSC-CM in cell-based models.

Antiphotoaging and Antimelanogenesis Properties of Ginsenoside C-Y, a Ginsenoside Rb2 Metabolite from American Ginseng PDD-ginsenoside

Ginsenosides are compounds responsible for the primary pharmacological effects of American ginseng. Compound-Y (C-Y) is a minor ginsenoside and a metabolite of Panax ginseng. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of ginsenoside UVB-irradiated NHDFs and its potential for use as an antihyperpigmentation agent through ginsenoside C-Y as a functional food and cosmetic ingredient. Ginsenoside C-Y is a natural antioxidant isolated from the American ginseng PDD-ginsenoside. Our data showed that ginsenoside C-Y block UVB-exposed ROS, restrict MMP-1 production and promote procollagen type I synthesis. Interestingly, ginsenoside C-Y suppresses UVB-exposed VEGF, and TNF-α secretion, could be related with NFAT signal path. Ginsenoside C-Y has exhibited photoaging effects by increasing TGF-β1 level, fortifying Nrf2 nuclear translocation and restricting AP-1 and MAPK phosphorylation. Assessment of the melanogenic response indicated that ginsenoside C-Y inhibited melanin secretion and tyrosinase activity and decreased melanin content in Melan-a and zebrafish embryos. These results suggest that ginsenoside C-Y can be used as a potential botanical agent to protect premature skin from UVB-induced photodamage and prevent skin hyperpigmentation.

Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles using Euphrasia officinalisleaf extract to inhibit lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation through NF-κB and JAK/STAT pathways in RAW 264.7 macrophages

Background

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have potential applications in the treatment and diagnosis process, which are attributed to their biocompatibility and high efficiency of drug delivery. In the current study, we utilized an extract of Euphrasia officinalis, a traditional folk medicine, to synthesize gold nanoparticles (EO-AuNPs), and investigated their anti-inflammatory effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Materials and methods

The AuNPs were synthesized from an ethanol extract of E. officinalis leaves and characterized using several analytical techniques. Anti-inflammatory activities of EO-AuNPs were detected by a model of LPS-induced upregulation of inflammatory mediators and cytokines including nitric oxide (NO), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-1β, and IL-6 in RAW 264.7 cells. The activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathways was investigated by Western blot.

Results

The results confirmed the successful synthesis of AuNPs by E. officinalis. Transmission electron microscopy images showed obvious uptake of EO-AuNPs and internalization into intracellular membrane–bound compartments, resembling endosomes and lysosomes by RAW 264.7 cells. Cell viability assays showed that EO-AuNPs exhibited little cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 cells at 100 µg/mL concentration after 24 hours. EO-AuNPs significantly suppressed the LPS-induced release of NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 as well as the expression of the iNOS gene and protein in RAW 264.7 cells. Further experiments demonstrated that pretreatment with EO-AuNPs significantly reduced the phosphorylation and degradation of inhibitor kappa B-alpha and inhibited the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. In addition, EO-AuNPs suppressed LPS-stimulated inflammation by blocking the activation of JAK/STAT pathway.

Conclusion

The synthesized EO-AuNPs showed anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells, suggesting they may be potential candidates for treating inflammatory-mediated diseases.

Chitinophaga aurantiaca sp. nov., isolated from a soil sample from a tangerine field

A Gram-stain-negative, facultatively anaerobic, non-motile and rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated THG-SD5.5^T, was isolated from a soil sample collected in a tangerine field, Republic of Korea. According to the 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons, the isolate was identified as a member of the genus Chitinophaga and to be closely related to Chitinophaga ginsengihumi KACC 17604^T (97.9%) and Chitinophaga rupis KACC 14521^T (97.5%). The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities with other species of the genus Chitinophaga were in the range 92.8-95.5%. Catalase test was positive. Oxidase test was negative. The DNA G + C content was determined to be 46.1 mol%. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain THG-SD5.5^T and C. ginsengihumi KACC 17604^T and C. rupis KACC 14521^T were 45.1% and 15.6%, respectively. Strain THG-SD5.5^T was also found to be able to grow at 24-33 °C, at 0-5% NaCl and at pH 5.5-9.0. The major fatty acids were identified as anteiso-C_15:0, C_16:0, anteiso-C_17:0 and C_18:0. The dominant respiratory quinone was identified as menaquinone-7 (MK-7). The polar lipids were found to be diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, an unidentified aminolipid, two unidentified phospholipids and three unidentified lipids. Based on these phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic characterisations, strain THG-SD5.5^T (= KACC 19338^T = CGMCC 1.16304^T) is concluded to represent a novel species of the genus Chitinophaga, for which the name Chitinophaga aurantiaca sp. nov. is proposed.

Glaciecola amylolytica sp. nov., an amylase-producing bacterium isolated from seawater

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile and coccus-shaped bacterium (THG-3.7^T) was isolated from seawater. Growth occurred at 10-30 °C (optimum 25 °C), at pH 6-8 (optimum 7) and in the presence of 1-8 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 4 %). Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the nearest phylogenetic neighbours of strain THG-3.7^T were identified as Paraglaciecola mesophila DSM 15026^T (95.3 % similarity), Glaciecola pallidula DSM 14239^T (95.2 %), Paraglaciecola aquimarina KCTC 32108^T (95.1 %), Paraglaciecola arctica KACC 14537^T (94.9 %), Glaciecola nitratireducens KCTC 12276^T (94.7 %) and Paraglaciecola psychrophila CGMCC 1.6130^T (94.7 %). 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities among strain THG-3.7^T and other species were lower than 94.7 %. The polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified lipid and one unidentified aminolipid. The quinone system was composed of Q-8. The major fatty acids were C16 : 0, C18 : 1ω7c and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or iso-C15 : 0 2-OH). The DNA G+C content of strain THG-3.7^T was 47.9 mol%. On the basis of the data presented, strain THG-3.7^T represents a novel species of the genus Glaciecola, for which the name Glaciecola amylolytica sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is THG-3.7^T (=KACC 19478^T=CCTCC AB 2017258^T).

Correction: Icariin and icaritin recover UVB-induced photoaging by stimulating Nrf2/ARE and reducing AP-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways: a comparative study on UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes

Correction for ‘Icariin and icaritin recover UVB-induced photoaging by stimulating Nrf2/ARE and reducing AP-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways: a comparative study on UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes’ by Eunson Hwang et al., Photochem. Photobiol. Sci., 2018, 17, 1396–1408.

Protective Effects of Euphrasia officinalis Extract against Ultraviolet B-Induced Photoaging in Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces skin photoaging, which is associated with the elevation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and the impairment of collagen. The Euphrasia species play a well-known role in the treatment of certain eye disorders through their anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. However, their protective activity toward UVB-induced damage remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of Euphrasia officinalis (95% ethanol extract) on UVB-irradiated photoaging in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Our results show that Euphrasia officinalis extract exhibited obvious reactive oxygen species (ROS) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, enhanced NHDF cell migration, and reduced UVB-induced apoptosis. The UVB-induced increases in MMP-1 and MMP-3 and decrease in type I procollagen were ameliorated by Euphrasia officinalis treatment, which worked by suppressing the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear transcription factor activator protein 1 (AP-1) signaling pathways. Taken together, our data strongly suggest that Euphrasia officinalis ethanol extract could reduce UVB-induced photoaging by alleviating oxidative stress, proinflammatory activity, and cell apoptosis.

Rubus idaeus L. (red raspberry) blocks UVB-induced MMP production and promotes type I procollagen synthesis via inhibition of MAPK/AP-1, NF-κβ and stimulation of TGF-β/Smad, Nrf2 in normal human dermal fibroblasts

Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes photo-oxidation, which in turn results in the upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and loss of collagen. Rubus idaeus L. (RI), also called red raspberry, is an important cash crop that contains abundant antioxidant compounds. Sanguiin H-6 and lambertianin C are the major ingredients presented in the extracts. Here, we studied the protective effect of RI on UVB-induced photoaging in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). We found that RI notably reduced UVB-induced MMPs secretion and pro-inflammatory mediators production, and significantly suppressed UVB-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor-κβ, as well as activator protein 1. Additionally, treatment of NHDFs with the ERK inhibitor (PD98059) and JNK inhibitor (SP600125) resulted in the reduction of UVB-induced MMP-1 and IL-6 expressions, which demonstrated that the inhibition of MMP-1 and IL-6 by RI is associated with the MAPK pathway. Furthermore, we also found that RI accelerated procollagen type I synthesis by activating the transforming growth factor-β/Smad pathway and enhanced the expression of cytoprotective antioxidants such as heme oxygenase-1 and NHD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 by promoting nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 nuclear transfer. Overall, these findings demonstrated that RI was potentially effective in preventing UVB induced skin photoaging.

Ginsenoside C-Mx Isolated from Notoginseng Stem-leaf Ginsenosides Attenuates Ultraviolet B-mediated Photoaging in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Notoginseng is a traditional herbal medicine widely used for medicinal therapy in Asia, as it contains numerous ginsenosides with pharmacological effects. In this study, we submitted Notoginseng stem-leaf (NGL) ginsenosides to an enzyme to create a reaction with the monomer products of ginsenoside C-Mx and then investigated the ability of ginsenoside C-Mx to protect the skin against ultraviolet B-induced injury in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Ginsenoside C-Mx alleviated UVB-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), MMP-1 and IL-6 expression while accelerating TGF-β and procollagen type I secretion. In addition, ginsenoside C-Mx reversed UVB-induced procollagen type I reduction by regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Moreover, ginsenoside C-Mx inhibited activation of AP-1 transcription factor, an inducer of MMPs. Ginsenoside C-Mx displayed an outstanding antioxidant capacity, increasing expression of cytoprotective antioxidants such as HO-1 and NQO-1 expression by enhancing the nuclear accumulation of Nrf2. Interestingly, application of ginsenoside C-Mx treatment (1, 10, 20 μm) significantly diminished UVB-induced suppressed NF-κB expression, decreasing the over-released inflammatory cytokines. Taken together, our findings indicated that ginsenoside C-Mx may act as a promising natural cosmetic ingredient for prevention and treatment of UVB-induced skin damage.

Alveolar Bone Protective Effect of Hiziki Extracts on the Progression of Periodontitis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of hiziki extract on alveolar bone loss, inflammation, and osteo-biomarker expression in hPDL cells (10, 50, 100 μg/ml final concentrations in culture medium) and on a ligature-induced periodontitis rat model (50, 100, 200 mg/kg with oral administration). Hiziki extract increased alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralized nodule formation in hPDL cell. In western blot analysis, hiziki extract resulted in increased expression of osteoblast markers, including transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), SMAD anchor for receptor activation (SARA) and runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) in hDPL cells. Additionally, expression of osteoclast markers and inflammatory cytokines was inhibited, which were receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK), RANK receptor (RANKL) and nuclear factor of activated T cells, cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1). Hiziki extract also prevented alveolar bone loss in a ligature-induced periodontitis rat model through reducing the distance between cementoenamel junction and alveolar bone crest (CBJ-ABC) and furcation involvement. These findings suggested that hiziki extract has prophylactic potential for the prevention of periodontitis through anti-inflammation and, anti-bone resorption effects and the inhibition of alveolar bone destruction.

Scopulibacillus cellulosilyticus sp. nov., a cellulose-degrading bacterium isolated from tea

A Gram-stain positive, aerobic, non-motile, endospore-forming and rod-shaped strain (THG-NT9^T) was isolated from a green tea sample. Growth occurred at 20-45 °C (optimum 28-35 °C), at pH 6.0-8.0 (optimum 7.0) and at 0-2.0% NaCl (optimum 0%). Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the near phylogenetic neighbours of strain THG-NT9^T were identified as Scopulibacillus daqui DSM 28236^T (98.6%), Scopulibacillus darangshiensis DSM 19377^T (97.4%), Pullulanibacillus pueri CGMCC 1.12777^T (96.7%) and Pullulanibacillus camelliae CGMCC 1.15371^T (96.3%). The DNA G + C content of strain THG-NT9^T was determined to be 47.5 mol %. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain THG-NT9^T and S. daqui DSM 28236^T, S. darangshiensis DSM 19377^T, P. pueri CGMCC 1.12777^T, P. camelliae CGMCC 1.15371^T and Pullulanibacillus naganoensis DSM 10191^T were 41.3 ± 0.1 (39.4 ± 0.4% reciprocal analysis), 39.1 ± 0.1 (37.3 ± 0.1%), 21.4 ± 0.7 (20.1 ± 0.3%), 20.7 ± 0.1 (20.1 ± 0.4%) and 12.1 ± 0.2% (8.3 ± 0.2%). The polar lipids were identified as diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and three unidentified lipids. The quinone was identified as MK-7. The major fatty acids were C_18:3 ω7c, iso-C_15:0, iso-C_16:0, iso-C_17:0 and anteiso-C_17:0. The cell wall type was determined to be A1γ peptidoglycan with meso-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic diamino acid plus alanine and glutamic acid and glucose as the cell wall sugar. On the basis of the phylogenetic analysis, chemotaxonomic data, physiological characteristics, and DNA-DNA hybridization data, strain THG-NT9^T represents a novel species of the genus Scopulibacillus, for which the name Scopulibacillus cellulosilyticus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is THG-NT9^T (= KCTC 33918^T = CGMCC 1.16305^T).

Camelliibacillus cellulosilyticus gen. nov., sp. nov., a cellulose-degrading bacterium isolated from tea

A Gram-stain-positive, oxidase- and catalase-positive, endospore-forming, aerobic, non-motile and rod-shaped bacterium (THG-YT1^T) was isolated from green tea. Growth occurred at 10-40 °C (optimum, 25-30 °C), at pH 6-8 (optimum, 7) and at 0-2 % NaCl (optimum, 0 %). Based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, phylogenetic analyses showed that strain THG-YT1^T formed a distinct lineage with respect to closely related genera in the family Bacillaceae. Strain THG-YT1^T was most closely related to the genera within the families Pullulanibacillus, Scopulibacillus, Tuberibacillus and Caenibacillu, with levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to the type species of members of these genera of less than 95.0 %. The menaquinone was MK-7. The polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified aminophospholipids, two unidentified aminolipids and two unidentified glycolipids. The major fatty acids of strain THG-YT1^T were C18 : 3ω7c and anteiso-C17 : 0. The cell-wall peptidoglycan type was A1γ with meso-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic diamino acid plus alanine and glutamic acid. The cell-wall sugar was glucose. The DNA G+C content of strain THG-YT1^T was determined to be 53.5 mol%. Based on the data presented here, strain THG-YT1^T represents a novel species of a new genus of the family Bacillaceae, for which the name Camelliibacillus cellulosilyticus gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is Camelliibacillus cellulosilyticus THG-YT1^T(=KACC 19471^T=CGMCC 1.16306^T).

Antiphotoaging Effect of Prunus yeonesis Blossom Extract via Inhibition of MAPK/AP-1 and Regulation of the TGF-βI/Smad and Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathways

Cherry blossoms have attracted attention as an ingredient with potential for use in skincare products. However, no skin photoaging-related research has been performed with this plant. In this study, cherry blossom extract (CBE) at 1, 10 and 100 μg mL^-1 was investigated for its skin antiphotoaging effects in UVB-irradiated normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) cells in vitro. Our results showed that CBE markedly increased type-I procollagen during UVB exposure via two pathways. Firstly, transcription activator protein-1 expression and MAP kinases were downregulated, consequently reducing the production of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and MMP-3. Secondly, transforming growth factor TGF-βI secretion was upregulated by Smads. Application of CBE facilitated the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 against reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced damage, which is essential for the coordinated induction of cytoprotective enzymes. Together, our findings suggest that CBE may be a promising ingredient for skin aging therapy and provide a novel approach for alleviating cutaneous aging.

Prunella vulgaris L. Exerts a Protective Effect Against Extrinsic Aging Through NF-κB, MAPKs, AP-1, and TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathways in UVB-Aged Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Prunella vulgaris L., a well-known traditional Chinese herbal medicine, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In the present study, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the protective effect of P. vulgaris extract (PVE) were investigated in UVB-irradiated normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). The mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), procollagen type I, and cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), was determined by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The expression of anti-photoaging-related signaling molecules in the NF-κB, MAPK/AP-1, and TGF/Smad pathways was assessed by western blot. We observed that PVE blocked the upregulated production of radical oxygen species induced in UVB-irradiated NHDFs in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with PVE also significantly ameliorated the mRNA levels of MMPs, procollagen type I, TNF-α, and IL-6. In addition, the phosphorylation level of c-Jun and c-Fos was decreased through the attenuated expression levels of p-ERK and p-JNK after treatment with PVE. Furthermore, cells treated with PVE showed inhibited Smad 7 and increased Smad 2/3 expression in the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Hence, synthesis of procollagen type I, a precursor of collagen I, was promoted. These findings indicate that treatment with PVE has a potential protective effect against UVB-induced photoaging and photoinflammation.

Paracoccus pueri sp. nov., isolated from Pu'er tea

A Gram-stain negative, aerobic, short rod-shaped, motile by flagella bacterial strain (THG-N2.35^T), was isolated from Pu'er tea. Growth occurred at 10-40 °C (optimum 28 °C), at pH 4-7 (optimum 7) and at 0-5% NaCl (optimum 1%). Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the near phylogenetic neighbours of strain THG-N2.35^T were identified as Paracoccus hibisci KACC 18632^T (99.0%), Paracoccus tibetensis CGMCC 1.8925^T (98.7%), Paracoccus beibuensis CGMCC 1.7295^T (98.2%), Paracoccus aestuarii KCTC 22049^T (98.2%), Paracoccus rhizosphaerae LMG 26205^T (98.1%), Paracoccus zeaxanthinifaciens ATCC 21588^T (97.1%), Paracoccus marcusii DSM 11574^T (97.0%). Levels of similarity between strain THG-N2.35^T and other Paracoccus species were lower than 97.0%. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain THG-N2.35^T and P. hibisci KACC 18632^T, P. tibetensis CGMCC 1.8925^T, P. beibuensis CGMCC 1.7295^T, P. aestuarii KCTC 22049^T, P. rhizosphaerae LMG 26205^T, P. zeaxanthinifaciens ATCC 21588^T, P.marcusii DSM 11574^T were 47.5% (42.3%, reciprocal analysis), 36.1% (32.3%), 24.7% (22.1%), 19.2% (16.3%), 11.3% (8.8%), 11.1% (10.8%), 6.1% (5.8%), respectively. The DNA G+C content of strain THG-N2.35^T was 62.3 mol%. The polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidyl-N-methylethanolamine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine. The quinone was ubiquinone-10 (Q-10). The major fatty acids were C_10:0 3OH, C_16:0, C_18:0 and C_18:1 ω7ϲ. On the basis of the phylogenetic analysis, chemotaxonomic data, physiological characteristics and DNA-DNA hybridization data, strain THG-N2.35^T represent a novel species of the genus Paracoccus, for which the name Paracoccus pueri sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is THG-N2.35^T (= KACC 18934^T = CCTCC AB 2016177^T).

Actinotalea solisilvae sp. nov., isolated from forest soil and emended description of the genus Actinotalea

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile and short-rod-shaped actinobacterium, designated THG-T121^T, was isolated from forest soil. Growth occurred at 10-40 °C (optimum 28-30 °C), at pH 6-8 (optimum 7) and at 0-4 % NaCl (optimum 1 %). Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the nearest phylogenetic neighbours of strain THG-T121^T were identified as Actinotalea ferrariae KCTC 29134^T (97.9 %), Actinotalea fermentans KCTC 3251^T (97.3 %), Cellulomonas carbonis KCTC 19824^T (97.2 %). 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities among strain THG-T121^T and other recognized species were lower than 97.0 %. The polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, two phosphatidylinositol mannosides, one unidentified phospholipid, three unidentified glycolipids and one unidentified lipid. The isoprenoid quinone was menaquinone (MK-10(H4)). The major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 1 A, C16 : 0, iso-C16 : 0, anteiso-C17 : 0 and iso-C17 : 0. The whole-cell sugars of strain THG-T121^T were rhamnose, ribose, mannose and glucose. The peptidoglycan type of strain THG-T121^T is A4β, containing l-Orn-D-Ser-L-Asp. The DNA G+C content of strain THG-T121^T was 72.4 mol%. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain THG-T121^T and A. ferrariae KCTC 29134^T, A. fermentans KCTC 3251^T and C. carbonis KCTC 19824^T were 30.2 % (27.3 %, reciprocal analysis), 28.4 %, (17.3 %) and 16.9 %, (9.3 %), respectively. On the basis of the phylogenetic analysis, chemotaxonomic data, physiological characteristics and DNA-DNA hybridization data, strain THG-T121^T represents a novel species of the genus Actinotalea, for which the name Actinotaleasolisilvae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is THG-T121^T (=KACC 19191^T=CGMCC 4.7389^T).

Protective effect of dietary Alchemilla mollis on UVB-irradiated premature skin aging through regulation of transcription factor NFATc1 and Nrf2/ARE pathways

BACKGROUND

Alchemilla mollis (lady's mantle) is a common ingredient in skin care products. However, the protective mechanism of A. mollis against skin problems has not been elucidated.

PURPOSE

This study was to investigate the effects of A. mollis ethanolic extract (AM) on UVB-irradiated normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and hairless mice.

METHODS

The in vitro anti-photoaging effect of AM was performed in NHDFs. The antioxidant activities were assessed through DPPH, ABTS, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays. Matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), IL-6, procollagen type I, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were measured by kits. The protein levels of p-c-Jun, p-c-Fos, Nrf2, NQO-1, HO-1, nuclear NFATc1 and cytosolic p-NFATc1 were evaluated by western blotting. In in vivo, H&E and Masson's trichrome staining were carried out. Skin texture was analyzed using the roughness parameters. The expression of MMP-1, procollagen type I, TGF-β1 and elastin were measured by western blot.

RESULTS

AM included gallic acid as an active constituent. AM exhibited a strong antioxidant effect by inhibiting DPPH and ABTS free radicals, as well as ROS production. It was also found to upregulate transforming growth factor β1, type I procollagen and elastin expression, and to downregulate matrix metalloproteinase-1 and interleukin-6 expression in AM-treated NHDFs under UVB irradiation. These effects were attributed to AP-1 and Nrf2/ARE signaling pathways. Significantly, it was demonstrated that AM regulated the UVB-induced NFATc1 dephosphorylation in nucleus. Based on dietary data, AM was effective for the prevention of wrinkle formation, skin thickening, water loss, and erythema in UVB-exposed mouse skin.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that A. mollis provides protection from UVB exposure in both hairless mice skin in vivo and NHDFs in vitro. AM might therefore be useful as a cosmetic material and functional food for the prevention of UVB-induced human skin photoaging.

Clove attenuates UVB-induced photodamage and repairs skin barrier function in hairless mice

Syzygium aromaticum L., commonly named clove, is widely used in the food industry due to its antioxidant and antibacterial capabilities.

Icariin and icaritin recover UVB-induced photoaging by stimulating Nrf2/ARE and reducing AP-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways: a comparative study on UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes

Icariin (ICA) and icaritin (ICT) have potential to treat UVB-induced skin oxidative stress, inflammation and photoaging.

Pterocarpus santalinus L. Regulated Ultraviolet B Irradiation-induced Procollagen Reduction and Matrix Metalloproteinases Expression Through Activation of TGF-β/Smad and Inhibition of the MAPK/AP-1 Pathway in Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Ultraviolet light-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage human skin and prematurely cause aging. A growing body of research is focusing on considering plants and plant-derived compounds as antiphotoaging therapeutic material. Pterocarpus santalinus L., as an Indian traditional medicine, possesses antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. Here, we studied the antiphotoaging effects of ethanolic extract of P. santalinus L. heartwood (EPS) on ultraviolet radiation B (UVB)-irradiated normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Results showed that EPS significantly inhibited the upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases and IL-6 caused by UVB irradiation, and suppressed UVB-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Jun N-terminal kinase and p38, as well as the activation of AP-1 transcription factors. Further study indicated that UVB-induced production of MMP-1 and IL-6 could be inhibited by PD 98059 (an ERK inhibitor) and SP600125 (A JNK inhibitor), implied that EPS inhibited UVB-induced MMP-1 and IL-6 secretion by inactivating MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, EPS possessed an excellent antioxidant activity, which could increase cytoprotective antioxidants such as HO-1, NQ-O1 expression by facilitating the nuclear accumulation of Nrf2. Treatment of NHDFs with EPS also recovered UVB-induced procollagen type I reduction by activating TGF-β/Smad pathway. These findings demonstrated that EPS had a potential effect against UVB-induced skin photoaging.