Cytoprotective Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Conocarpus erectus Against Ultraviolet B in Skin Cell Line HSF-PI 17

Background: The Conocarpus extract possesses antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may prove to be beneficial in the healing of skin wounds. Objectives: This study investigated the protective effects of Conocarpus leaf extract on HSF-PI 17 fibroblast cells against the harmful effects of UVB radiation. Methods: After culturing the cells, the MTT assay was employed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the Conocarpus extract. The cells were divided into three groups: The control group, the group receiving radiation only, and the group receiving radiation along with the Conocarpus leaf extract. Trypan blue staining was utilized to quantify the count of viable cells. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was determined by measuring the intensity of fluorescence color. Real-time PCR was utilized to evaluate gene expression, while Western blotting was employed to determine protein expression. Results: Conocarpus extract had no toxic effects on HSF-PI 17 cells at doses ranging from 0.01 to 10 g/mL. Exposure to UVB radiation led to a notable rise in the production of ROS and a considerable decline in cell growth rate compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In the third group, the Conocarpus extract significantly moderated the reduction in growth and production of ROS compared to the second group (P < 0.05). TGF-β and SMAD2/3 gene expressions, as well as collagen protein levels, were significantly lower in the second group than in the control group (P < 0.05). TGF-β and SMAD2/3 gene expressions, as well as collagen protein expression, showed a significant increase in the third group compared to the second group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Conocarpus leaf extract reduces the harmful effects of UVB radiation on HSF-PI 17 skin fibroblast cells.