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Natural Product-Based Strategy for Skin Inflammatory Disorders and Regeneration
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Natural Product-Based Strategy for Skin Inflammatory Disorders and Regeneration

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Bioactives and Nutraceuticals".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 July 2025 | Viewed by 5314

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Mi Young Lee

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Medical Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea
Interests: exosome; inflammation; natural extract
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue is supervised by Prof. Dr. Mi Young Lee with the assistance of our Topical Advisory Panel Member Dr. Ji-Hye Kang (Soonchunhyang University).

There has been an emerging interest in natural products and medicinal plants for inflammatory skin disorders and regeneration.

Bioactive natural products and medicinal plants have been known to exert pro-health effects on the skin via anti-oxidative, collagen biosynthesis-promoting, immunomodulatory, wound healing and anti-inflammatory activities, among other benefits.

Therefore, in this Special Issue, we closely consider the current knowledge and applications of bioactive natural compounds and their derivatives and conjugates, as well as plant extracts in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields.

The following subtopics may be covered:

  • Biological activities and applications of bioactive natural compounds and their derivatives and conjugates for the treatment of skin inflammation, wound healing and regeneration and aging in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries;
  • The beneficial effects of medicinal plant extracts on skin inflammation, wound healing and regeneration and aging in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries;
  • Molecular mechanism underlying the pro-health effects on skin inflammation and the related disorders, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis acne, etc.;
  • Molecular mechanisms underlying the pro-health effects on wound healing, regeneration and aging.

Prof. Dr. Mi Young Lee
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • inflammatory skin disorders
  • skin wound healing and regeneration
  • skin aging
  • bioactive natural compound
  • derivative and conjugate
  • plant extract
  • beneficial effect and application
  • molecular mechanism

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

22 pages, 5186 KiB  
Article
Skin Photoprotection and Anti-Aging Benefits of a Combination of Rosemary and Grapefruit Extracts: Evidence from In Vitro Models and Human Study
by Pau Navarro, Julián Castillo, Jonathan Jones, Adrián García and Nuria Caturla
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(9), 4001; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094001 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 527
Abstract
Skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) causes oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation and can trigger erythema. While topical formulas protect the skin from UV damage, there is growing evidence that certain botanical ingredients taken orally may have an added benefit. This study [...] Read more.
Skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) causes oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation and can trigger erythema. While topical formulas protect the skin from UV damage, there is growing evidence that certain botanical ingredients taken orally may have an added benefit. This study evaluated the photoprotective, anti-photoaging, and anti-erythema efficacy of a combination of rosemary and grapefruit extract (Nutroxsun®). Radical oxygen species (ROS) generation and interleukin production were determined in UV-irradiated keratinocytes (HaCaT). Also, collagen and elastin secretion and metalloproteinase (MMP-1 and MMP-3) content were assessed in UV-irradiated fibroblasts (NHDFs). Furthermore, a placebo-controlled, randomized, crossover study was conducted in 20 subjects (phototypes I to III) receiving two doses, 100 and 200 mg, of the ingredient. Skin redness (a* value, CIELab) after exposure to one minimal erythemal dose of UVR was assessed. As a result, the botanical blend significantly attenuated the UVR-induced reductions of procollagen I and elastin and lowered MMP-1 and MMP-3 protein secretion. Also, a reduction in ROS and proinflammatory interleukins (IL-1, IL-8, and IL-6) was observed. Finally, the botanical blend, at both doses, significantly reduced UV-induced erythema reaction from the first day of intake and accelerated recovery. These findings reinforce the potential of this ingredient as an effective dietary solution to protect the skin against UV-induced damage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product-Based Strategy for Skin Inflammatory Disorders and Regeneration)
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20 pages, 4419 KiB  
Article
Biochemical Mechanism of Thai Fermented Soybean Extract on UVB-Induced Skin Keratinocyte Damage and Inflammation
by Supapit Wongkarn, Teera Chewonarin, Jetsada Ruangsuriya, Sirinya Taya, Pornngarm Dejkriengkraikul and Supachai Yodkeeree
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(7), 3418; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26073418 - 5 Apr 2025
Viewed by 393
Abstract
Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is a key factor contributing to photodamage in epidermal cells. This study investigated the protective effects of Thua Nao, a Thai fermented soybean product, against UVB-induced damage in human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT) and the underlying mechanisms. Thua Nao extract [...] Read more.
Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is a key factor contributing to photodamage in epidermal cells. This study investigated the protective effects of Thua Nao, a Thai fermented soybean product, against UVB-induced damage in human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT) and the underlying mechanisms. Thua Nao extract fractions were prepared using a solvent partition method. We found that the dichloromethane fraction (TN-DC), along with its isoflavones daidzein and glycitein, significantly protected against UVB-induced HaCaT cell death. This protection involved inhibiting caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation, thus preventing apoptosis. Additionally, treatment with TN-DC, daidzein, and glycitein suppressed the UVB-induced production of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2. These protective effects were associated with reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species and enhanced the levels of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase 4. Signaling pathway analysis revealed that TN-DC activated the pro-survival ERK1/2 and Akt pathways while decreased the phosphorylation of JNK in UVB-exposed cells. On the other hand, daidzein and glycitein enhanced ERK1/2 activation and reduced the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 MAPKs. The involvement of ERK1/2 and Akt activation in cell survival was confirmed using specific inhibitors. Thus, TN-DC and its isoflavones protects keratinocytes from UVB-induced oxidative damage and inflammation by modulating MAPKs and Akt signaling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product-Based Strategy for Skin Inflammatory Disorders and Regeneration)
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18 pages, 7955 KiB  
Article
Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Response and Its Prominent Suppression by Paspalum thunbergii Extract
by Bin Ha, Ji-Hye Kang, Do Hyun Kim and Mi-Young Lee
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(4), 1611; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26041611 - 13 Feb 2025
Viewed by 787
Abstract
The extract of Paspalum thunbergii, a native perennial herb in Korea belonging to the rice family, was investigated for its anti-inflammatory activity and the underlying mechanisms driving its effects. Fifteen chemical components of the P. thunbergii extract, including rosmarinic acid and isoquercitrin, [...] Read more.
The extract of Paspalum thunbergii, a native perennial herb in Korea belonging to the rice family, was investigated for its anti-inflammatory activity and the underlying mechanisms driving its effects. Fifteen chemical components of the P. thunbergii extract, including rosmarinic acid and isoquercitrin, were identified using LC-MS. The extract showed antioxidative activity through DPPH and ABTS cation radical scavenging activity. The P. thunbergii extract significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. The extract inhibited the expression of lipopolysaccharide-induced iNOS and COX-2, which are inflammation-related enzymes. To explore the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanism, the expression levels of signal proteins related to MAPK, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling were measured. As a result, the P. thunbergii extract inhibited the expression of p-p38, and p-JNK increased by LPS in RAW 264.7 cells. Additionally, it decreased the expression of LPS-induced p-IKKβ and p-NF-κB p65 and prevented the migration of p-NF-κB into the nucleus caused by LPS. Notably, p-JAK1, p-STAT3, Wnt 3α, β-catenin, and p-GSK-3β protein expressions were also inhibited. Therefore, the prominent anti-inflammatory activity of the P. thunbergii extract may be via the MAPK, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product-Based Strategy for Skin Inflammatory Disorders and Regeneration)
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15 pages, 6729 KiB  
Article
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Extract Promotes Skin Wound Healing
by Zi Deng, Kengo Iwasaki, Yihao Peng and Yoshitomo Honda
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(24), 13745; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252413745 - 23 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1157
Abstract
Recently, it has been reported that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived humoral factors promote skin wound healing. As these humoral factors are transiently stored in cytoplasm, we collected them as part of the cell extracts from MSCs (MSC-ext). This study aimed to investigate the [...] Read more.
Recently, it has been reported that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived humoral factors promote skin wound healing. As these humoral factors are transiently stored in cytoplasm, we collected them as part of the cell extracts from MSCs (MSC-ext). This study aimed to investigate the effects of MSC-ext on skin wound healing. We examined the effects of MSC-ext on cell proliferation and migration. Additionally, the effect of MSC-ext on skin wound healing was evaluated using a mouse skin defect model. The MSC-ext enhanced the proliferation of dermal fibroblasts, epithelial cells, and endothelial cells. It also increased the number of migrating fibroblasts and epithelial cells. The skin defects treated with MSC-ext demonstrated rapid wound closure compared to those treated with phosphate-buffered saline. The MSC-ext group exhibited a thicker dermis, larger Picrosirius red-positive areas, and a higher number of Ki67-positive cells. Our results indicate that MSC-ext promotes the proliferation and/or migration of fibroblasts, epithelial cells, and endothelial cells, and enhances skin wound healing. This suggests the therapeutic potential of MSC-ext in treating skin defects as a novel cell-free treatment modality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product-Based Strategy for Skin Inflammatory Disorders and Regeneration)
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13 pages, 2615 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Dermatological Benefits of Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus): A Comparative Analysis of Extracts and Fermented Products from Different Plant Parts
by Chanwoo Lee, Hana Cho, Myunsoo Kim, Boae Kim, Young-Pyo Jang and Junseong Park
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(17), 9660; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25179660 - 6 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1486
Abstract
Skin ageing is influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, with excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure being a significant contributor. Such exposure can lead to moisture loss, sagging, increased wrinkling, and decreased skin elasticity. Prolonged UV exposure negatively impacts the extracellular matrix by reducing [...] Read more.
Skin ageing is influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, with excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure being a significant contributor. Such exposure can lead to moisture loss, sagging, increased wrinkling, and decreased skin elasticity. Prolonged UV exposure negatively impacts the extracellular matrix by reducing collagen, hyaluronic acid, and aquaporin 3 (AQP-3) levels. Fermentation, which involves microorganisms, can produce and transform beneficial substances for human health. Natural product fermentation using lactic acid bacteria have demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, whitening, and anti-wrinkle properties. Snowberry, traditionally used as an antiemetic, purgative, and anti-inflammatory agent, is now also used as an immune stimulant and for treating digestive disorders and colds. However, research on the skin benefits of Fermented Snowberry Extracts remains limited. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the skin benefits of snowberry by investigating its moisturising and anti-wrinkle effects, comparing extracts from different parts of the snowberry plant with those subjected to fermentation using Lactobacillus plantarum. Chlorophyll-free extracts were prepared from various parts of the snowberry plant, and ferments were created using Lactobacillus plantarum. The extracts and ferments were analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to determine and compare their chemical compositions. Moisturising and anti-ageing tests were conducted to assess the efficacy of the extracts and ferments on the skin. The gallic acid content remained unchanged across all parts of the snowberry before and after fermentation. However, Fermented Snowberry Leaf Extracts exhibited a slight decrease in chlorogenic acid content but a significant increase in ferulic acid content. The Fermented Snowberry Fruit Extract demonstrated increased chlorogenic acid and a notable rise in ferulic acid compared to its non-fermented counterpart. Skin efficacy tests revealed that Fermented Snowberry Leaf and Fruit Extracts enhanced the expression of AQP-3, HAS-3, and COL1A1. These extracts exhibited distinct phenolic component profiles, indicating potential skin benefits such as improved moisture retention and protection against ageing. These findings suggest that Fermented Snowberry Extracts could be developed into effective skincare products, providing a natural alternative for enhancing skin hydration and reducing signs of ageing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product-Based Strategy for Skin Inflammatory Disorders and Regeneration)
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