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.