Macroalgae <i>Sargassum cristaefolium</i> Extract Inhibits Proinflammatory Cytokine Expression in BALB/C Mice

Abstract

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) which could induce skin damage and skin disease is a growing concern due to the increase in global warming. Brown macroalgae <i>Sargassum cristaefolium</i> has been recognized to exhibit UV protective activities. However, the mechanism of its photoprotective activity remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential mechanism of <i>S. cristaefolium</i>'s photoprotective activity against UV radiation. Phytochemical analyses revealed valuable bioactive compounds in SCE, such as fucoxanthin which is widely known as an anti-inflammatory carotenoid. Treatment with SCE before UV-A radiation show reduced levels of wrinkles and desquamation. Interestingly, SCE treatment induces the skin healing process after UV radiation. SCE effectively inhibited proinflammatory TNF-<i>α</i> and IL-6 expression while increasing IL-10 production in the BALB/<i>c</i> mice skin. Current results suggest that SCE potentially protects the skin by attenuation of inflammatory cytokines. In addition, SCE demonstrates promising antibacterial activity (MIC = 1.302 <i>µ</i>g/mL) against <i>Staphylococcus aureus.</i> Overall, SCE could be a source of an effective anti-inflammatory agent protecting against UV irradiation-induced skin damages.