Inhibition of sebum production and pro-inflammatory mediators by QDF hydrogel reduces acne symptoms in mice model

This study aimed to prepare a hydrogel loaded with the "Qu Dou Formula" (QDF), a compound formula of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) modified from Qing Shang Fang Feng Tang, and explore its potential benefits in the treatment of acne, as well as the mechanisms by which QDF inhibits sebum secretion and attenuates inflammatory responses.

QDF hydrogels were prepared from oxidized sodium alginate/carboxymethyl chitosan (OSA/CMCS) microspheres crosslinked with the chitosan quaternary ammonium salt. A composite model of acne on the backs of the mice was established, and histopathology was used to assess the effect of QDF on acne lesions. Network pharmacology was used to identify important intervention pathways and targets. In vivo experiments were performed to detect the expression of genes and proteins associated with inflammation and sebum metabolism.

First, we successfully prepared a stable and biocompatible QDF hydrogel. Second, QDF significantly improved pathological changes in skin lesions, reduce the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the dermis and inhibit the secretion of FFA and TG. Network pharmacology suggest that QDF may exert anti-inflammatory effects through TNF, IL-6 and other targets. In addition, QDF inhibits the secretion of TLR2, MMP9 and other factors, ultimately reducing acne inflammation.

In this study, a stable and biocompatible QDF hydrogel was prepared, suggesting that the QDF hydrogel can inhibit sebum secretion and inflammation through multiple pathways and multiple targets, and effectively relieve acne symptoms. This study provides new insights and directions for acne treatment.