Punica granatum extract exerts dual anti-aging action by enhancing extracellular matrix integrity and inducing autophagy in human fibroblasts
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Abstract
Punica granatum has been extensively studied for its diverse biological activities, largely attributed to its rich content of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. Beyond its well-documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, recent findings highlight that pomegranate extract (CEPG) demonstrates a dual anti-aging mechanism in human fibroblasts by enhancing extracellular matrix (ECM) components and inducing autophagy. CEPG increased total collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis while reducing MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 secretion and collagenase activity. Mechanistically, CEPG upregulated LC3-II and reduced p-mTOR levels, indicating autophagy induction through mTOR pathway modulation. These results position CEPG as a promising dermocosmetic ingredient with dual ECM-protective and pro-autophagic activity.
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