Skin-Soothing Properties of Juniperus formosana Hayata Revealed by Bioactivity-Based Molecular Networking

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Dermatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Juniperus formosana Hayata is a traditional Tibetan medicine used for dermatitis and itching.
• Limited scientific evidence hinders its cosmetic application.
• Need to identify active compounds and mechanisms for skin soothing.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify active compounds in J. formosana with skin-soothing properties.
• Elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying its anti-inflammatory and anti-itch effects.
• Investigate the potential of J. formosana extract in cosmetic and personal care products.

Main Methods:

• Bioactivity-guided molecular networking for fraction purification.
• In vitro assays using inflammatory keratinocytes and monocytes.
• Analysis of chemokine (MCP-1) secretion and mRNA expression.
• Assessment of monocyte recruitment and activation marker (CD86).
• Evaluation of TRPA1 ion channel function.
• Molecular docking simulations to predict binding affinity.

Main Results:

• A theaflavin analog-rich fraction (84.47%) was purified from J. formosana extract.
• This fraction significantly inhibited MCP-1 secretion and mRNA expression in keratinocytes.
• It suppressed inflammation-induced monocyte recruitment and CD86 expression.
• The fraction alleviated inflammation-induced TRPA1 desensitization.
• Molecular docking showed high binding affinity of the theaflavin analog to MCP-1.

Conclusions:

• The theaflavin analog from J. formosana is a potent skin-soothing compound.
• It acts by inhibiting the MCP-1/CCR2 axis and protecting TRPA1.
• J. formosana shows promise as a natural active ingredient for anti-inflammatory and anti-itch cosmetic applications.