Protective Effects of ζ-Carotene-like Compounds against Acute UVB-Induced Skin Damage.

The previous study successfully established an expression strain of ζ-carotene-like compounds (CLC) and demonstrated its remarkable antioxidant activity, which exhibited resistance to photodamage caused by UVB radiation on the skin following gavage administration. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact and mechanism of CLC on UVB-induced skin damage through topical application. Cell viability, anti-apoptotic activity, ROS scavenging ability, the inhibition of melanin synthesis, the regulation of inflammatory factors and collagen deposition were assessed in cells and mice using qRT-PCR, WB, Elisa assays, immunohistochemistry staining and biochemical kits, etc.

Beneficial effect of ζ-carotene-like compounds on acute UVB irradiation by alleviating inflammation and regulating intestinal flora.

ζ-Carotene is a key intermediate in the carotenoid pathway, but owing to its low content and difficulties in isolation, its application is restricted. In this study, three genes (, , and ) in the carotenoid pathway of Antarctic moss were identified, recombined, and expressed in () BL21(DE3). The expression product was identified as one of the ζ-carotenes by UV absorbance spectrum, thin layer chromatography (TLC), and super-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrum (UPLC-MS), and was called a ζ-carotene-like compound (CLC).