Potential of Tomato Seed Extract for Wrinkle Care through Human Neutrophil Elastase Inhibition: A Randomized,...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Cosmetic Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Aging leads to wrinkles, with oral supplements emerging as a potential treatment.
• Previous research indicated tomato seed extract (TSE) benefits skin elasticity and inflammation.
• Human neutrophil elastase (HNE) plays a role in skin aging and wrinkle formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the anti-wrinkle effects of tomato seed extract (TSE).
• To explore the mechanism of TSE's action via inhibition of human neutrophil elastase (HNE).
• To evaluate the efficacy of oral TSE supplementation in reducing facial wrinkles.

Main Methods:

• In vitro assessment of TSE and lycoperoside H for HNE inhibitory activity.
• A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 45 Japanese women (40-59 years old) with eye wrinkles.
• Participants received either 200 mg/d TSE (containing 1 mg lycoperoside H) or a placebo.

Main Results:

• TSE demonstrated significant inhibition of human neutrophil elastase (HNE) with an IC50 of 316 μg/mL.
• Lycoperoside H, a component of TSE, also exhibited HNE inhibitory effects (IC50: 37 mM).
• The clinical trial showed improvements in wrinkle grade in the TSE group, but similar improvements were observed in the placebo group, yielding no statistically significant difference between groups.

Conclusions:

• Tomato seed extract (TSE) possesses human neutrophil elastase (HNE) inhibitory properties, suggesting potential dermal benefits.
• While in vitro results are promising, the clinical trial did not confirm significant wrinkle reduction from TSE supplementation compared to placebo over 12 weeks.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the precise role and optimal application of TSE in managing skin aging and wrinkles.