Inhibitory Effects of Prunella vulgaris L. Extract on 11β-HSD1 in Human Skin Cells

Abstract EN

Glucocorticoids are a risk factor for age-induced skin structure and function defects, and the glucocorticoid-activating enzyme, 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1), represents a promising therapeutic target.

Prunella vulgaris L.

(PV) is a perennial and an edible herbaceous plant normally cultivated in Asia and Europe.

A recent study demonstrated a broad range of biological activities of PV including immune modulatory, antiviral, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antidiabetic.

However, little is known about the inhibitory effect of PV on 11β-HSD1.

In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of Prunella vulgaris L.

extract (PVE) and the underlying mechanism of 11β-HSD11 inhibition.

Consistent with these results, cortisol levels were also reduced by PVE in vitro.

The cortisone-induced translocation of glucocorticoids receptor (GR) was also attenuated.

In addition, PVE inhibited a cortisone-mediated decrease in collagen content in skin.

Collectively, these results suggest the beneficial effects of PVE in maintaining skin integrity.