Apple Pomace Extract Induces Cell Proliferation and Increases Type I Collagen and Hyaluronan Production in Human Skin...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Cosmeceuticals
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Apple pomace, a byproduct of apple processing, contains beneficial compounds like polyphenols.
• While known for health benefits, its cosmetic effects on skin are underexplored.
• Discarded apple pomace represents a potential source for novel skincare ingredients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the in vitro effects of apple pomace extract (APE) on human skin fibroblasts (HSFs).
• To determine APE's impact on fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix component production.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying APE's potential anti-aging effects on skin.

Main Methods:

• In vitro culture of human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) with varying concentrations of APE.
• Transcriptome analysis and RT-qPCR to assess gene expression.
• ELISA to quantify extracellular matrix components.
• Western blotting to analyze protein phosphorylation.
• Gene Ontology analysis for functional enrichment.

Main Results:

• APE significantly increased HSF proliferation at 10 and 20 µg/mL.
• APE upregulated hyaluronan synthases (HAS1-3) and downregulated hyaluronan-degrading enzyme HYAL1.
• Increased secretion of type I collagen and hyaluronic acid was observed.
• APE induced phosphorylation of ERK and Akt signaling pathways.
• Gene Ontology analysis highlighted enrichment of mitosis-related terms.

Conclusions:

• Apple pomace extract stimulates human skin fibroblast proliferation.
• APE enhances the production of key anti-aging skin components, including hyaluronic acid and collagen.
• The findings suggest APE has potential as a novel ingredient for cosmetic anti-aging applications.