Induction of extracellular matrix synthesis in normal human fibroblasts by anthraquinone isolated from Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit.

In previous studies we found that Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit extract up-regulated biosynthesis of type I collagen and glycosaminoglycans in primary cultures of normal human fibroblasts. The objective of this study was to identify the active ingredients in Noni fruit extract. An active single compound having a type I collagen-stimulating effect was isolated and identified as 1,4-dihydroxy-2-methoxy-7-methylanthraquinone by nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared, and mass analysis.

Inhibitory effects of Ramulus mori extracts on melanogenesis.

To develop an active agent for skin whitening, the inhibitory effects of 285 plant extracts on tyrosinase activity were examined, and one plant extract having tyrosinase inhibition activity was chosen. Ramulus mori (young twigs of Morus alba L.) extracts showed inhibition activity in tyrosinase and melanin synthesis in B-16 melanoma cells.

Effects of the chestnut inner shell extract on the expression of adhesion molecules, fibronectin and vitronectin, of skin fibroblasts in culture.

The inner shell of the chestnut (Castanea crenata S. et Z., Fagaceae) has been used as an anti-wrinkle/skin firming agent in East Asia, and preliminary experiments have found that a 70% ethanol extract from this plant material can prevent cell detachment of skin fibroblasts from culture plates.

The extract of the flowers of Prunus persica, a new cosmetic ingredient, protects against solar ultraviolet-induced skin damage in vivo.

The flowers of Prunus persica Batsch have been used for skin disorders in East Asia from ancient times. In this investigation, the ethanol extract from this plant material was prepared and several major constituents were isolated. In addition, the protective effects of the extract were evaluated against solar ultraviolet (UV)-induced skin damage using in vivo animal models of UVB-induced erythema in guinea pigs and ear edema in ICR mice.