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Published on: September 7, 2013
Brown Pine Leaf Extract and Its Active Component Trans-Communic Acid Inhibit UVB-Induced MMP-1 Expression by
Won Bum Huh1, Jong-Eun Kim1, Young-Gyu Kang2
1WCU Biomodulation Major, Center for Food and Bioconvergence, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Advanced Institutes of Convergence Technology, Seoul National University, Suwon, Republic of Korea.
Brown pine leaf extract (BPLE) and its component trans-communic acid (TCA) show potential anti-aging effects. They protect skin from UVB damage by inhibiting MMP-1 expression and related pathways, suggesting use as cosmetic ingredients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Cosmeceuticals
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Japanese red pine leaves are traditionally used but their aged brown leaves are underutilized.
- Photoaging, caused by UVB radiation, leads to skin damage and wrinkles.
- Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) is a key enzyme involved in skin aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anti-photoaging potential of brown pine leaf extract (BPLE).
- To identify active compounds in BPLE responsible for anti-aging effects.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying BPLE's protective action against UVB-induced skin damage.
Main Methods:
- Cultured human keratinocytes and a human skin equivalent model were used.
- Brown pine leaf extract (BPLE) and pine leaf extract (PLE) were applied.
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyzed active compounds.
- UVB irradiation was used to induce skin aging.
- Gene expression (MMP-1 mRNA) and protein activity (AP-1, Akt, MAPK, PI3K) were measured.
Main Results:
- BPLE demonstrated greater inhibition of UVB-induced MMP-1 expression than PLE.
- Trans-communic acid (TCA) and dehydroabietic acid (DAA) levels increased in brown pine leaves.
- BPLE and TCA reduced MMP-1 mRNA and AP-1 activity by inhibiting specific DNA binding.
- BPLE and TCA inhibited UVB-induced Akt phosphorylation and PI3K activity in vitro.
Conclusions:
- Brown pine leaf extract (BPLE) and its active component TCA possess significant anti-photoaging properties.
- BPLE and TCA protect skin against UVB-induced damage by suppressing MMP-1 expression and related signaling pathways.
- These findings support the potential use of BPLE and TCA as anti-wrinkling agents and cosmetic ingredients.
