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Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications

A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Medicinal Chemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2022) | Viewed by 37354

Special Issue Editors

Department of Chemistry and Cosmetics, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea
Interests: natural product chemistry; melanogenesis; skin inflammation; anti-aging; hair growth
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Department of Integrative Biotechnology, and Biomedical Institute for Convergence at SKKU (BICS), Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
Interests: skin physiology; melanocyte biology; obesity; inflammatory and autoimmune disease

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Natural products provide an interesting and largely unexplored source for the development of potential new cosmetic ingredients. As reflected in these facts, the global market demand for natural cosmetic ingredients such as plant extracts that can be used for depigmenting, antiwrinkle, and other cosmeceutical uses is also increasing. In fact, many companies around the world are trying to develop inhibitors or activators related to collagen synthesis, melanogenesis, and skin inflammation. In addition, smart consumers using cosmetics tend to carefully review the mechanisms of action of these inhibitors or activators.

Accordingly, this Special Issue on “Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications” is aimed at presenting novel data on natural products and single compounds with skin protection and improvement activities, at either the enzymatic or the cellular level, through original papers and short communications, but also to provide an overview of the current knowledge in this field through reviews.

Prof. Dr. Chang-Gu Hyun
Prof. Dr. Jongsung Lee
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • Natural products
  • Antioxidants
  • Enzymatic activities
  • Melanogenesis
  • Collagen synthesis
  • MMPs
  • Hair growth
  • Skin inflammation
  • Obesity
  • Autoimmune disease

Published Papers (16 papers)

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Editorial

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3 pages, 180 KiB  
Editorial
Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications
by Jongsung Lee and Chang-Gu Hyun
Molecules 2023, 28(2), 534; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules28020534 - 05 Jan 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1638
Abstract
Natural products provide an interesting and largely unexplored source for the development of potential new cosmetic ingredients [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

12 pages, 2664 KiB  
Communication
Miglitol, an Oral Antidiabetic Drug, Downregulates Melanogenesis in B16F10 Melanoma Cells through the PKA, MAPK, and GSK3β/β-Catenin Signaling Pathways
by Hyeon-Mi Kim and Chang-Gu Hyun
Molecules 2023, 28(1), 115; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules28010115 - 23 Dec 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1647
Abstract
Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that causes darker spots or patches on the skin, which often look brown, black, gray, red, or pink. This results in unresolved psychological impact due to high anxiety, depression, and somatoform disorder. We aimed to repurpose an antidiabetic [...] Read more.
Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that causes darker spots or patches on the skin, which often look brown, black, gray, red, or pink. This results in unresolved psychological impact due to high anxiety, depression, and somatoform disorder. We aimed to repurpose an antidiabetic drug, miglitol, as an effective compound against hyperpigmentation when applied as a cosmeceutical agent. The present study investigated the antimelanogenic effects of miglitol and the trehalase inhibitor validamycin A. Miglitol in isolation exhibited no cytotoxicity and significantly reduced the melanin production and intracellular tyrosinase activity in B16F10 melanoma cells. The Western blotting results showed that miglitol reduces the expression of melanogenic regulatory factors, including tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein (TRP)-1, TRP-2, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). Mechanistically, miglitol appears to suppress melanin synthesis through cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA)-dependent downregulation of MITF, a master transcription factor in melanogenesis. The antimelanogenic effects of miglitol was mediated by downregulation of the p38 signaling pathway and upregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Moreover, miglitol decreases P-GSK3β and β-catenin levels compared to those in the untreated group. However, miglitol activated P-β-catenin expression compared to that in the untreated group. Finally, we tested the potential of miglitol in topical application through primary human skin irritation tests on the normal skin (upper back) of 33 volunteers. In these assays, miglitol (125 and 250 μM) did not induce any adverse reactions. Taken together, these findings suggest that the regulation of melanogenesis by miglitol may be mediated by the PKA, MAPK, and GSK3β/β-Catenin signaling pathways and that miglitol might provide new insights into drug repurposing for the treatment of hyperpigmentation symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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16 pages, 3076 KiB  
Article
Pouteria macrophylla Fruit Extract Microemulsion for Cutaneous Depigmentation: Evaluation Using a 3D Pigmented Skin Model
by Ana Clara N. Brathwaite, Thuany Alencar-Silva, Larissa A. C. Carvalho, Maryana S. F. Branquinho, Ricardo Ferreira-Nunes, Marcilio Cunha-Filho, Guilherme M. Gelfuso, Silvya S. Maria-Engler, Juliana Lott Carvalho, Joyce K. R. Silva and Tais Gratieri
Molecules 2022, 27(18), 5982; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27185982 - 14 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1422
Abstract
Here, we verify the depigmenting action of Pouteria macrophylla fruit extract (EXT), incorporate it into a safe topical microemulsion and assess its effectiveness in a 3D pigmented skin model. Melanocytes-B16F10- were used to assess the EXT effects on cell viability, melanin synthesis, and [...] Read more.
Here, we verify the depigmenting action of Pouteria macrophylla fruit extract (EXT), incorporate it into a safe topical microemulsion and assess its effectiveness in a 3D pigmented skin model. Melanocytes-B16F10- were used to assess the EXT effects on cell viability, melanin synthesis, and melanin synthesis-related gene transcription factor expression, which demonstrated a 32% and 50% reduction of intra and extracellular melanin content, respectively. The developed microemulsion was composed of Cremophor EL®/Span 80 4:1 (w/w), ethyl oleate, and pH 4.5 HEPES buffer and had an average droplet size of 40 nm (PdI 0.40 ± 0.07). Skin irritation test with reconstituted epidermis (Skin Ethic RHETM) showed that the formulation is non-irritating. Tyrosinase inhibition was maintained after skin permeation in vitro, in which microemulsion showed twice the inhibition of the conventional emulsion (20.7 ± 2.2% and 10.7 ± 2.4%, respectively). The depigmenting effect of the microemulsion was finally confirmed in a 3D culture model of pigmented skin, in which histological analysis showed a more pronounced effect than a commercial depigmenting formulation. In conclusion, the developed microemulsion is a promising safe formulation for the administration of cutite fruit extract, which showed remarkable depigmenting potential compared to a commercial formulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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16 pages, 1806 KiB  
Article
Connarus semidecandrus Jack Exerts Anti-Alopecia Effects by Targeting 5α-Reductase Activity and an Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
by Won Young Jang, Dong Seon Kim, Sang Hee Park, Ji Hye Yoon, Chae Yun Shin, Lei Huang, Ket Nang, Masphal Kry, Hye-Woo Byun, Byoung-Hee Lee, Sarah Lee, Jongsung Lee and Jae Youl Cho
Molecules 2022, 27(13), 4086; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27134086 - 24 Jun 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3256
Abstract
There is a growing demand for hair loss treatments with minimal side effects and recurrence potential. Connarus semidecandrus Jack has been used as a folk medicine for fever in tropical regions, but its anti-alopecia effects remain unclear. In this study, the anti-androgenic alopecia [...] Read more.
There is a growing demand for hair loss treatments with minimal side effects and recurrence potential. Connarus semidecandrus Jack has been used as a folk medicine for fever in tropical regions, but its anti-alopecia effects remain unclear. In this study, the anti-androgenic alopecia effect of an ethanol extract of Connarus semidecandrus Jack (Cs-EE) was demonstrated in a testosterone-induced androgenic alopecia (AGA) model, in terms of the hair–skin ratio, hair type frequency, and hair thickness. The area of restored hair growth and thickened hair population after Cs-EE treatment showed the hair-growth-promoting effect of Cs-EE. Histological data support the possibility that Cs-EE could reduce hair loss and upregulate hair proliferation in mouse skin by shifting hair follicles from the catagen phase to the anagen phase. Western blotting indicated that Cs-EE reduced the expression of the androgenic receptor. Cs-EE treatment also inhibited programmed cell death by upregulating Bcl-2 expression at the mRNA and protein levels. The anti-alopecia effect of Cs-EE was confirmed by in vitro experiments showing that Cs-EE had suppressive effects on 5-α reductase activity and lymph node carcinoma of the prostate proliferation, and a proliferative effect on human hair-follicle dermal papilla (HDP) cells. Apoptotic pathways in HDP cells were downregulated by Cs-EE treatment. Thus, Cs-EE could be a potential treatment for AGA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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10 pages, 2489 KiB  
Article
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Spiramycin in LPS-Activated RAW 264.7 Macrophages
by Jin-Kyu Kang, Hyun-Kyu Kang and Chang-Gu Hyun
Molecules 2022, 27(10), 3202; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27103202 - 17 May 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2244
Abstract
Drug repurposing is a simple concept with a long history, and is a paradigm shift that can significantly reduce the costs and accelerate the process of bringing a new small-molecule drug into clinical practice. We attempted to uncover a new application of spiramycin, [...] Read more.
Drug repurposing is a simple concept with a long history, and is a paradigm shift that can significantly reduce the costs and accelerate the process of bringing a new small-molecule drug into clinical practice. We attempted to uncover a new application of spiramycin, an old medication that was classically prescribed for toxoplasmosis and various other soft-tissue infections; specifically, we initiated a study on the anti-inflammatory capacity of spiramycin. For this purpose, we used murine macrophage RAW 264.7 as a model for this experiment and investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of spiramycin by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines. In the present study, we demonstrated that spiramycin significantly decreased nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Spiramycin also inhibited the expression of NO synthase (iNOS), potentially explaining the spiramycin-induced decrease in NO production. In addition, spiramycin inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs); extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N terminal kinase (JNK) as well as the inactivation and subsequent nuclear translocation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). This indicated that spiramycin attenuates macrophages’ secretion of IL-6, IL-1β, and NO, inducing iNOS expression via the inhibition of the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Finally, we tested the potential application of spiramycin as a topical material by human skin primary irritation tests. It was performed on the normal skin (upper back) of 31 volunteers to determine whether 100 μM and μM of spiramycin had irritation or sensitization potential. In these assays, spiramycin did not induce any adverse reactions. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that spiramycin can effectively attenuate the activation of macrophages, suggesting that spiramycin could be a potential candidate for drug repositioning as a topical anti-inflammatory agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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13 pages, 1763 KiB  
Article
5-Bromo-3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde Promotes Hair Growth through Activation of Wnt/β-Catenin and Autophagy Pathways and Inhibition of TGF-β Pathways in Dermal Papilla Cells
by Jung-Il Kang, Youn Kyung Choi, Sang-Chul Han, Hyunwoo Nam, Gilwoo Lee, Ji-Hoon Kang, Young Sang Koh, Jin Won Hyun, Eun-Sook Yoo and Hee-Kyoung Kang
Molecules 2022, 27(7), 2176; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27072176 - 28 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2258
Abstract
Various studies addressing the increasing problem of hair loss, using natural products with few side effects, have been conducted. 5-bromo-3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (BDB) exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in mouse models of atopic dermatitis and inhibited UVB-induced oxidative stress in keratinocytes. Here, we investigated its stimulating effect [...] Read more.
Various studies addressing the increasing problem of hair loss, using natural products with few side effects, have been conducted. 5-bromo-3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (BDB) exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in mouse models of atopic dermatitis and inhibited UVB-induced oxidative stress in keratinocytes. Here, we investigated its stimulating effect and the underlying mechanism of action on hair growth using rat vibrissa follicles and dermal papilla cells (DPCs), required for the regulation of hair cycle and length. BDB increased the length of hair fibers in rat vibrissa follicles and the proliferation of DPCs, along with causing changes in the levels of cell cycle-related proteins. We investigated whether BDB could trigger anagen-activating signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and autophagy in DPCs. BDB induces activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway through the phosphorylation of GSG3β and β-catenin. BDB increased the levels of autophagic vacuoles and autophagy regulatory proteins Atg7, Atg5, Atg16L, and LC3B. We also investigated whether BDB inhibits the TGF-β pathway, which promotes transition to the catagen phase. BDB inhibited the phosphorylation of Smad2 induced by TGF-β1. Thus, BDB can promote hair growth by modulating anagen signaling by activating Wnt/β-catenin and autophagy pathways and inhibiting the TGF-β pathway in DPCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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14 pages, 16514 KiB  
Article
Effect of Cirsium japonicum Flower Extract on Skin Aging Induced by Glycation
by Sohyun Yoon, Minkyung Kim, Seoungwoo Shin, Jieun Woo, Dahee Son, Dehun Ryu, Jiseon Yoo, Deokhoon Park and Eunsun Jung
Molecules 2022, 27(7), 2093; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27072093 - 24 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2557
Abstract
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have recently been increasingly discussed as one factor of skin aging. In this study, we investigated the effects of Cirsium japonicum flower (CFE) extract on glycation in relation to skin aging and skin elasticity. Moreover, we learned the [...] Read more.
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have recently been increasingly discussed as one factor of skin aging. In this study, we investigated the effects of Cirsium japonicum flower (CFE) extract on glycation in relation to skin aging and skin elasticity. Moreover, we learned the main active constituent of CFE that has effects against glycation. To demonstrate the effects of CFE on glycation, we carried out an in vitro glycation study, 3-dimensional culture, and clinical study. As a result, CFE inhibited formation of AGEs in both bovine serum albumin (BSA)/glucose glycation system and aldehyde-derived glycation system. Moreover, CFE reduced Nε-(carboxymethyl), lysine (CML), and carbonylated proteins that increased by glycation. Furthermore, CFE broke crosslinks of collagen–AGEs and inhibited the increase of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) gene expression by AGEs. In the 3D culture condition, CFE restored the reduction of collagen gel contraction by glycation. Moreover, apigenin was detected as the main active constituent in CFE that has anti-glycation effects. In the clinical study, we confirmed that CFE has effects on skin wrinkles and skin elasticity. Our findings suggest that CFE can be used as a cosmetic or cosmeceutical ingredient for improving skin elasticity and wrinkles. Regulation of AGEs can be an interesting target for anti-aging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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18 pages, 3934 KiB  
Article
Polyopes affinis Suppressed IFN-γ- and TNF-α-Induced Inflammation in Human Keratinocytes via Down-Regulation of the NF-κB and STAT1 Pathways
by Yuna Ha, Won-Hwi Lee, Jang Kyun Kim, Hee-Kyung Jeon, Jongsung Lee and Youn-Jung Kim
Molecules 2022, 27(6), 1836; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27061836 - 11 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2370
Abstract
Polyopes affinis is a red algal species commonly found on the South coast and near Jeju Island, Korea. This study aimed to determine whether P. affinis extracts can inhibit the pathogenesis of T-helper-2 (Th2)-mediated inflammation in a human keratinocyte cell line of atopic [...] Read more.
Polyopes affinis is a red algal species commonly found on the South coast and near Jeju Island, Korea. This study aimed to determine whether P. affinis extracts can inhibit the pathogenesis of T-helper-2 (Th2)-mediated inflammation in a human keratinocyte cell line of atopic dermatitis (AD). Cells were incubated with 10 ng/mL of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and 10 ng/mL of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) at various concentrations of PAB (10, 30, and 60 µg/mL) and PAA (100, 500, and 1000 µg/mL) extracts. A gene-ontology (GO)-enrichment analysis revealed that PAB significantly enriched the genes associated with biological processes such as cell adhesion, immune response, inflammation, and chemokine-mediated pathways. PAB suppressed the expression of the secretory proteins and mRNAs that are associated with the thymus and the production of activation-regulated chemokines (TARC/CCL17) and macrophage-derived chemokines (MDC/CCL22). The effect of the extract on mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) was related to its inhibition of TARC/CCL17 and MDC/CCL22 production by blocking NF-κB and STAT1 activation. These results suggest that seaweed extract may improve AD by regulating pro-inflammatory chemokines. In conclusion, we first confirmed the existence of phloroglucinol, a polyphenol formed from a precursor called phlorotannin, which is present in PAB, and this result proved the possibility of PAB being used as a treatment for AD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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11 pages, 1777 KiB  
Communication
Regulation of Cytokines and Dihydrotestosterone Production in Human Hair Follicle Papilla Cells by Supercritical Extraction-Residues Extract of Ulmus davidiana
by Ye-Eun Kwon, Sun-Eun Choi and Kwang-Hyun Park
Molecules 2022, 27(4), 1419; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27041419 - 19 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2451
Abstract
This study was conducted to examine the anti-hair loss mechanism of the supercritical fluid extraction-residues extract of Ulmus davidiana by the regulation of cytokine production and hormone function in human dermal follicle papilla cells (HDFPCs). To investigate the modulatory effects on H2 [...] Read more.
This study was conducted to examine the anti-hair loss mechanism of the supercritical fluid extraction-residues extract of Ulmus davidiana by the regulation of cytokine production and hormone function in human dermal follicle papilla cells (HDFPCs). To investigate the modulatory effects on H2O2-induced cytokines, we measured transforming growth factor-beta and insulin-like growth factor 1 secreted from HDFPCs. To investigate the regulatory effects of supercritical extraction-residues extract of Ulmus davidiana on dihydrotestosterone hormone production, cells were co-incubated with high concentrations of testosterone. The supercritical extraction-residues extract of Ulmus davidiana significantly inhibited the secretion of transforming growth factor-beta but rescued insulin-like growth factor 1 in a dose-dependent manner. The supercritical extraction-residues extract of Ulmus davidiana markedly reduced dihydrotestosterone production. These results suggest that the supercritical fluid extract residues of Ulmus davidiana and their functional molecules are candidates for preventing human hair loss. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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15 pages, 3337 KiB  
Article
The Alleviating Effect of Lagerstroemia indica Flower Extract on Stretch Marks through Regulation of Mast Cells
by Miji Yeom, Hyanggi Ji, Jongheon Shin, Eunae Cho, De-Hun Ryu, Deokhoon Park and Eunsun Jung
Molecules 2022, 27(4), 1274; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27041274 - 14 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2075
Abstract
Striae distensae (SD) or stretch marks are common linear scars of atrophic skin with disintegrating extracellular matrix (ECM) structures. Although fibroblasts contribute to the construction of ECM structure in SD, some studies have reported that mast cell degranulation causes the disruption of ECM [...] Read more.
Striae distensae (SD) or stretch marks are common linear scars of atrophic skin with disintegrating extracellular matrix (ECM) structures. Although fibroblasts contribute to the construction of ECM structure in SD, some studies have reported that mast cell degranulation causes the disruption of ECM in early SD lesions. Lagerstroemia indica flower (LIF) has traditionally been used in India as a diuretic. However, little is known about the effect and molecular action of Lagerstroemia indica flower extract (LIFE) on alleviating SD. This study evaluated the effects of LIFE on mast cell degranulation and the synthesis of ECM components in fibroblasts. LIFE inhibits the adhesion of rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells, RBL-2H3 on fibronectin (FN) and the expression of integrin, a receptor for FN, thereby reducing focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation. In addition, LIFE attenuated the allergen-induced granules and cytokine interleukin 3 (IL-3) through the adhesion with FN. Moreover, the conditioned medium (CM) of activated mast cells decreases the synthesis of ECM components, and LIFE restores the abnormal expressions induced by activated mast cells. These results demonstrate that LIFE suppresses FN-induced mast cell activation and promotes the synthesis of ECM components in fibroblast, which indicates that LIFE may be a useful cosmetic agent for SD treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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11 pages, 2371 KiB  
Article
Luteolin-3′-O-Phosphate Inhibits Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses by Regulating NF-κB/MAPK Cascade Signaling in RAW 264.7 Cells
by Jung-Hwan Kim, Tae-Jin Park, Jin-Soo Park, Min-Seon Kim, Won-Jae Chi and Seung-Young Kim
Molecules 2021, 26(23), 7393; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26237393 - 06 Dec 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1731
Abstract
Luteolin (LT), present in most plants, has potent anti-inflammatory properties both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, some of its derivatives, such as luteolin-7-O-glucoside, also exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying luteolin-3′-O-phosphate (LTP)-mediated immune regulation are not [...] Read more.
Luteolin (LT), present in most plants, has potent anti-inflammatory properties both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, some of its derivatives, such as luteolin-7-O-glucoside, also exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying luteolin-3′-O-phosphate (LTP)-mediated immune regulation are not fully understood. In this paper, we compared the anti-inflammatory properties of LT and LTP and analyzed their molecular mechanisms of action; we obtained LTP via the biorenovation of LT. We investigated the anti-inflammatory activities of LT and LTP in macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. We confirmed from previously reported literature that LT inhibits the production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, as well as the expression of inducible NO synthetase and cyclooxygenase-2. In addition, expressions of inflammatory genes and mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β, were suppressed. LTP showed anti-inflammatory activity similar to LT, but better anti-inflammatory activity in all the experiments, while also inhibiting mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-kappa B more effectively than LT. At a concentration of 10 μM, LTP showed differences of 2.1 to 44.5% in the activity compared to LT; it also showed higher anti-inflammatory activity. Our findings suggest that LTP has stronger anti-inflammatory activity than LT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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9 pages, 2326 KiB  
Article
In Vitro and In Vivo Photoprotective Effects of (-)-Loliode Isolated from the Brown Seaweed, Sargassum horneri
by Lei Wang, Hyun-Soo Kim, Jun-Geon Je, Xiaoting Fu, Caoxing Huang, Ginnae Ahn, Jae-Young Oh, K. K. Asanka Sanjeewa, Jiachao Xu, Xin Gao, In-Kyu Yeo and You-Jin Jeon
Molecules 2021, 26(22), 6898; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26226898 - 16 Nov 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1978
Abstract
Skin is the largest organ of humans. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) is the primary environmental factor that causes skin damage. The compound, (-)-loliode, isolated from the brown seaweed Sargassum horneri, showed strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in in vitro and in vivo [...] Read more.
Skin is the largest organ of humans. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) is the primary environmental factor that causes skin damage. The compound, (-)-loliode, isolated from the brown seaweed Sargassum horneri, showed strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in in vitro and in vivo models. To further explore the potential of (-)-loliode in cosmetics, in the present study, we investigated the photoprotective effect of (-)-loliode in vitro in skin cells and in vivo in zebrafish. The results indicated that (-)-loliode significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, improved cell viability, and suppressed apoptosis of UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes. In addition, (-)-loliode remarkably attenuated oxidative damage, improved collagen synthesis, and inhibited matrix metalloproteinases expression in UVB-irradiated human dermal fibroblasts. Furthermore, the in vivo test demonstrated that (-)-loliode effectively and dose-dependently suppressed UVB-induced zebrafish damage displayed in decreasing the levels of ROS, nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation, and cell death in UVB-irradiated zebrafish. These results indicate that (-)-loliode possesses strong photoprotective activities and suggest (-)-loliode may an ideal ingredient in the pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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11 pages, 10769 KiB  
Article
Prunetin 4′-O-Phosphate, a Novel Compound, in RAW 264.7 Macrophages Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Activity via Suppression of MAP Kinases and the NFκB Pathway
by Tae-Jin Park, Hyehyun Hong, Min-Seon Kim, Jin-Soo Park, Won-Jae Chi and Seung-Young Kim
Molecules 2021, 26(22), 6841; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26226841 - 12 Nov 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1770
Abstract
Biorenovation, a microbial enzyme-assisted degradation process of precursor compounds, is an effective approach to unraveling the potential bioactive properties of the derived compounds. In this study, we obtained a new compound, prunetin 4′-O-phosphate (P4P), through the biorenovation of prunetin (PRN), and [...] Read more.
Biorenovation, a microbial enzyme-assisted degradation process of precursor compounds, is an effective approach to unraveling the potential bioactive properties of the derived compounds. In this study, we obtained a new compound, prunetin 4′-O-phosphate (P4P), through the biorenovation of prunetin (PRN), and investigated its anti-inflammatory effects in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The anti-inflammatory effect of P4P was evaluated by measuring the production of prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2), nitric oxide (NO), which is an inflammation-inducing factor, and related cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin-1β (IL1β), and interleukin-6 (IL6). The findings demonstrated that P4P was non-toxic to cells, and its inhibition of the secretion of NO—as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines—was concentration-dependent. A simultaneous reduction in the protein expression level of pro-inflammatory proteins such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was observed. Moreover, the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) such as extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 MAPK (p38), and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) was downregulated. To conclude, we report that biorenovation-based phosphorylation of PRN improved its anti-inflammatory activity. Cell-based in vitro assays further confirmed that P4P could be applied in the development of anti-inflammatory therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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12 pages, 3097 KiB  
Article
Wound Healing-Promoting and Melanogenesis-Inhibiting Activities of Angelica polymorpha Maxim. Flower Absolute In Vitro and Its Chemical Composition
by Su-Yeon Lee, Kyung-Jong Won, Do-Yoon Kim, Mi-Jung Kim, Yu-Rim Won, Nan-Young Kim and Hwan-Myung Lee
Molecules 2021, 26(20), 6172; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26206172 - 13 Oct 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2234
Abstract
Angelica polymorpha Maxim. (APM) is used in traditional medicine to treat chronic gastritis, rheumatic pain, and duodenal bulbar ulcers. However, it is not known whether APM has epidermis-associated biological activities. Here, we investigated the effects of APM flower absolute (APMFAb) on responses associated [...] Read more.
Angelica polymorpha Maxim. (APM) is used in traditional medicine to treat chronic gastritis, rheumatic pain, and duodenal bulbar ulcers. However, it is not known whether APM has epidermis-associated biological activities. Here, we investigated the effects of APM flower absolute (APMFAb) on responses associated with skin wound healing and whitening using epidermal cells. APMFAb was obtained by solvent extraction and its composition was analyzed by GC/MS. Water-soluble tetrazolium salt, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine incorporation, Boyden chamber, sprouting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and immunoblotting were used to examine the effects of APMFAb on HaCaT keratinocytes and B16BL6 melanoma cells. APMFAb contained five compounds and induced keratinocyte migration, proliferation, and type IV collagen synthesis. APMFAb also induced the phosphorylations of ERK1/2, JNK, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and AKT in keratinocytes. In addition, APMFAb decreased serum-induced B16BL6 cell proliferation and inhibited tyrosinase expression, melanin contents, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor expression in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-stimulated B16BL6 cells. These findings demonstrate that APMFAb has beneficial effects on skin wound healing by promoting the proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis of keratinocytes and on skin whitening by inhibiting melanin synthesis in melanoma cells. Therefore, we suggest that APMFAb has potential use as a wound healing and skin whitening agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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16 pages, 2847 KiB  
Article
Aspergillus oryzae-Fermented Wheat Peptone Enhances the Potential of Proliferation and Hydration of Human Keratinocytes through Activation of p44/42 MAPK
by Kyung Man Hahm, See-Hyoung Park, Sae Woong Oh, Ji Hye Kim, Hyun Sook Yeom, Hye Ja Lee, Seoyeon Yang, Jae Youl Cho, Jin Oh Park and Jongsung Lee
Molecules 2021, 26(19), 6074; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26196074 - 08 Oct 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2242
Abstract
Identifying materials contributing to skin hydration, essential for normal skin homeostasis, has recently gained increased research interest. In this study, we investigated the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of Aspergillus oryzae-fermented wheat peptone (AFWP) on the proliferation and hydration of human [...] Read more.
Identifying materials contributing to skin hydration, essential for normal skin homeostasis, has recently gained increased research interest. In this study, we investigated the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of Aspergillus oryzae-fermented wheat peptone (AFWP) on the proliferation and hydration of human skin keratinocytes, through in vitro experiments using HaCaT cell lines. The findings revealed that compared to unfermented wheat peptone, AFWP exhibited an improved amino acid composition, significantly (p < 0.05) higher DPPH scavenging capability and cell proliferation activity, and reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, we separated AFWP into eleven fractions, each ≤2 kDa; of these, fraction 4 (AFW4) demonstrated the highest efficacy in the cell proliferation assay and was found to be the key component responsible for the cell proliferation potential and antioxidant properties of AFWP. Additionally, AFW4 increased the expression of genes encoding natural moisturizing factors, including filaggrin, transglutaminase-1, and hyaluronic acid synthase 1–3. Furthermore, AFW4 activated p44/42 MAPK, but not JNK and p38 MAPK, whereas PD98059, a p44/42 MAPK inhibitor, attenuated the beneficial effects of AFW4 on the skin, suggesting that the effects of AFW4 are mediated via p44/42 MAPK activation. Finally, in clinical studies, AFW4 treatment resulted in increased skin hydration and reduced trans-epidermal water loss compared with a placebo group. Collectively, these data provide evidence that AFW4 could be used as a potential therapeutic agent to improve skin barrier damage induced by external stresses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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20 pages, 2364 KiB  
Article
Protective Effect of Potentilla glabra in UVB-Induced Photoaging Process
by Long You, Mi-Yeon Kim and Jae Youl Cho
Molecules 2021, 26(17), 5408; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26175408 - 06 Sep 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3351
Abstract
Maintaining skin homeostasis is one of the most important factors for skin health. UVB-induced skin photoaging is a difficult problem that has negative impacts on skin homeostasis. So far, a number of compounds have been discovered that improve human skin barrier function and [...] Read more.
Maintaining skin homeostasis is one of the most important factors for skin health. UVB-induced skin photoaging is a difficult problem that has negative impacts on skin homeostasis. So far, a number of compounds have been discovered that improve human skin barrier function and hydration, and are thought to be effective ways to protect skin homeostasis. Potentilla glabra var. mandshurica (Maxim.) Hand.-Mazz. Ethanol Extract (Pg-EE) is a compound that has noteworthy anti-inflammatory properties. However, its skin-protective effects are poorly understood. Therefore, we evaluated the capacity of Pg-EE to strengthen the skin barrier and improve skin hydration. Pg-EE can enhance the expression of filaggrin (FLG), transglutaminase (TGM)-1, hyaluronic acid synthase (HAS)-1, and HAS-2 in human keratinocytes. Moreover, Pg-EE down-regulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and up-regulated the production of FLG, HAS-1, and HAS-2 suppressed by UVB through inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways. Given the above, since Pg-EE can improve skin barrier, hydration and reduce the UVB-induced inflammation on skin, it could therefore be a valuable natural ingredient for cosmetics or pharmaceuticals to treat skin disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cosmetic Applications)
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