TITLE:
Skin Hydrating Effects of Corchorus olitorius Extract in a Mouse Model of Atopic Dermatitis
AUTHORS:
Satoshi Yokoyama, Keiichi Hiramoto, Takahiko Fujikawa, Hiroya Kondo, Nobuyuki Konishi, Shu Sudo, Makoto Iwashima, Kazuya Ooi
KEYWORDS:
Corchorus olitorius; Atopic Dermatitis; Skin Hydration; Transepidermal Water Loss
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications,
Vol.4 No.1,
January
23,
2014
ABSTRACT: Background: Corchorus
olitorius leaf contains a significant amount of mucilaginous
polysaccharide. It has been generally accepted that the polysaccharides derived
from botanical extracts increase skin hydration. Since skin hydration improves
skin barrier function, it is one of the most effective treatments for atopic
dermatitis (AD). However, other components of botanical extracts other than
polysaccharides may influence skin hydration and transepidermal water loss
(TEWL). The aim of this study was to evaluate the hydration efficacy and skin
barrier protection afforded to the skin after exposure to Corchorus olitorius extract without high-molecular-weight compounds
(COEW), such as polysaccharides. Methods: NC/Nga mice possess disrupted skin
barrier function, and were used as a model for AD. A stable base cream was
supplemented with 0.2% COEW and applied to the dorsal skin of these mice. Skin
hydration and TEWL were analyzed after a 14-d period of daily application. AD
scores and plasma immunoglobulin E (IgE) concentrations were also investigated.
Results: Compared to control mice, mice treated with the COEW cream showed
significantly increased skin hydration and reduced TEWL. Plasma IgE concentrations
were not affected by the COEW cream, whereas an increase in AD score in NC/Nga
mice was prevented because of the application of the COEW cream. Conclusions: COEW
has the ability to maintain hydration of the skin, and to prevent the
disruption of skin barrier function, which leads to the aggravation of AD. COEW may be used as an adjunct treatment for
AD.