Blackberry leaf extract contains phytonutrients that prevent wrinkle formation.

Abstract

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a major role in wrinkle formation. Their expression increases with aging and is further enhanced by UV irradiation. Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) leaf extract has been shown to suppress MMP-1, -2 and -9 in cell-free assays. We have now further explored the activity of this extract. The effect on MMP-1 expression at the protein and the mRNA level was investigated using non-irradiated and UVA-irradiated human dermal fibroblasts. The extract showed a dose-dependent reduction of the MMP-1 protein level of both irradiated and non-irradiated cells with an almost complete inhibition at a dosage of 0.1%. MMP-1 mRNA expression of UVA-irradiated cells was decreased after pre-incubation as well as after post-incubation with the extract. Best results were obtained with combined pre- and post-treatment (0.1% extract led to 59% reduction in comparison with the respective control). Moreover, we found that blackberry leaf extract inhibits IL-1alpha, a cytokine known to induce MMP expression. At a dosage of 0.2% the inhibition was 40% compared with that of the stimulated control. The extract also exhibited a potent radical scavenging activity comparable to that of alpha-tocopherol as was shown by the ABTS assay. Taken together, these biological activities make blackberry leaf extract a highly efficient multifunctional anti-aging active.