Apple Extract Boosts Skin Cell Growth and Collagen Production in Lab Studies

Jenn Hoskins
14th July, 2024

Apple Extract Boosts Skin Cell Growth and Collagen Production in Lab Studies

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Aomori University found that apple pomace extract (APE) boosts the growth of skin cells called fibroblasts
  • APE increases the production of hyaluronic acid and type I collagen, which are crucial for skin hydration and strength
  • The study suggests APE could be a natural ingredient for anti-aging skincare by promoting skin cell growth and maintaining skin structure
Apple pomace, the residue left after apples are squeezed, is often discarded by the apple manufacturing industry. However, recent research conducted by Aomori University of Health and Welfare has unveiled the potential cosmetic benefits of apple pomace extract (APE) on human skin fibroblasts (HSFs)[1]. This study provides new insights into how APE can promote skin health and combat aging. The study found that when HSFs were cultured with APE for 72 hours, there was a significant increase in the number of fibroblasts at concentrations of 10 and 20 µg/mL. Fibroblasts are essential cells in the skin that produce and maintain the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides structural support and regulates various cellular functions[2]. The aging process disrupts the interaction between fibroblasts and the ECM, leading to a decrease in collagen production and an increase in matrix-degrading enzymes, which contributes to skin aging[2]. To understand the molecular mechanisms behind the observed effects, the researchers conducted transcriptome analysis and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. These techniques revealed that APE upregulated the expression of hyaluronan synthase (HAS) 1, HAS2, and HAS3. These enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of hyaluronan (HA), a crucial component of the skin that maintains moisture and elasticity[3]. Additionally, APE downregulated the expression of HYAL1, a gene encoding the enzyme that degrades hyaluronan. This dual action of increasing HA synthesis and decreasing its degradation suggests that APE can enhance skin hydration and resilience. Further analyses using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that APE increased the secretion of type I collagen and hyaluronic acid in the culture supernatant. Type I collagen is the primary collagen found in the skin and is essential for maintaining its strength and structure[2]. Hyaluronic acid, known for its moisturizing properties, is widely used in cosmetics and supplements to improve skin hydration[3]. The study also employed western blotting to investigate the signaling pathways involved in the effects of APE. The results indicated that APE induced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and protein kinase B (AKT). These proteins are part of signaling pathways that regulate cell proliferation and survival, suggesting that APE promotes the growth and maintenance of fibroblasts. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed several GO terms related to mitosis, indicating that APE may stimulate cell division and proliferation. This is particularly important for maintaining a youthful skin phenotype, as increased fibroblast proliferation can help counteract the age-related decline in ECM production[2]. The findings of this study align with previous research on the beneficial effects of apple pomace and its constituents. Apple pomace is rich in polyphenols and triterpenoids, which have been shown to exert various health benefits, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects[4]. The current study adds to this body of knowledge by demonstrating the potential cosmetic applications of apple pomace in promoting skin health and combating aging. In conclusion, the research conducted by Aomori University of Health and Welfare provides compelling evidence that apple pomace extract can enhance the proliferation of human skin fibroblasts and increase the production of key components of the skin extracellular matrix. By upregulating the synthesis of hyaluronan and type I collagen, APE shows promise as a natural ingredient for anti-aging skincare products. This study highlights the potential of utilizing apple pomace, an underutilized waste product, for its nutritional and pharmaceutical value, contributing to more sustainable and effective skincare solutions.

FruitsHealthBiochem

References

Main Study

1) Apple Pomace Extract Induces Cell Proliferation and Increases Type I Collagen and Hyaluronan Production in Human Skin Fibroblasts In Vitro.

Published 13th July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11130-024-01210-w

Related Studies

2) Extracellular matrix regulation of fibroblast function: redefining our perspective on skin aging.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s12079-018-0459-1

3) Ingested hyaluronan moisturizes dry skin.

https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-13-70

4) Apple Pomace as Potential Source of Natural Active Compounds.

https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-111898


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