Safflower Seed Oil and Its Active Compound Acacetin Inhibit UVB-Induced Skin Photoaging

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Cosmetology
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Background:

• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation accelerates skin aging, leading to wrinkles and collagen degradation.
• Safflower seed oil (SSO), rich in fatty acids and phytochemicals, has traditional uses for skin health.
• Novel agents are needed to counteract UV-induced skin damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of SSO and its active compound, acacetin, on UVB-induced skin photoaging.
• To determine the impact on matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression and related signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

• Utilized HaCaT cells and human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) exposed to UVB radiation.
• Assessed MMP-1 protein and mRNA levels following treatment with SSO and acacetin.
• Analyzed the involvement of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, including JNK1/2, ERK1/2, p38, and AKT.

Main Results:

• SSO and acacetin significantly inhibited UVB-induced MMP-1 expression at both protein and mRNA levels in HaCaT cells and HDF.
• Acacetin modulated the phosphorylation of JNK1/2 and c-jun, indicating involvement in the MAPK pathway.
• Neither SSO nor acacetin inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, or AKT.

Conclusions:

• SSO and its active compound, acacetin, demonstrate potential in preventing UVB-induced skin photoaging.
• These compounds inhibit MMP-1 expression, a critical factor in collagen degradation and wrinkle formation.
• SSO and acacetin may serve as therapeutic agents for anti-wrinkle treatments and improving overall skin health.