Total Flavonoids From the Dried Root of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg Exert Antiacne Properties via Inhibiting Caspase-3 and NF-κB

Abstract

Background

Acne vulgaris (AV) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory diseases of the skin. The dried root of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg contains abundant flavonoid constituents and has anti-inflammatory effects. The current research aims to investigate the antiacne properties of total flavonoids from the dried root of T. hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg (THF) and the related mechanisms in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

THF was extracted, and the constituents were analyzed by UPLC/Q-TOF-MS. Male SD rats were randomly divided into NC, ACNE, and VA groups (0.5 g retinoic acid cream) and THF low, medium, and high groups (5, 10, and 20 mg/mL). Hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining was used to evaluate right ear auricle injury. RAW 264.7 cells were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to evaluate the effect of THF on inflammation in vitro. Proteins related to inflammation were evaluated by western blotting.

Results

In vivo experiments have shown that THF could effectively inhibit the expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and caspase-3 in oleic acid (OA) and Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes)–induced acne models in the ears of male SD rats, as well as alleviate ear inflammation of rats. Furthermore, THF inhibited the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, caspase-3, and NF-κB in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells in vitro.

Conclusion

THF exerted antiacne properties through alleviating the inflammatory response, and the mechanism may be related to inhibiting the expression of caspase-3 and NF-κB. This study provides a foundational basis for developing THF aimed at antiacne applications in cosmetics.