Apple Pomace Extract Induces Cell Proliferation and Increases Type I Collagen and Hyaluronan Production in Human Skin Fibroblasts In Vitro

Publication Date:
2024-07-13

Institutions involved:

Aomori University of Health and Welfare, Japan

Duration:
Laboratory study

Dosage:
Apple pomace extract (APE) at 10, 50, 100 μg/mL on human dermal fibroblasts (skin matrix cells)

Key Takeaways:

Apple pomace extract helps reboot your skin’s natural renewal system, boosting collagen and hyaluronic acid, the building blocks of firm, hydrated skin.

APE shows true bioactivity at the genetic level, upregulating key skin factors— collagen, hyaluronan, and fibroblast proliferation.

The extract works by activating your skin’s own repair genes— not just masking damage. It supports deep regeneration, not just surface-level hydration.

Apple Poly Summary:

Why is this study important? This in vitro study demonstrates that polyphenol-rich apple pomace extract (APE) stimulates human skin fibroblast proliferation and boosts the production of type I collagen and hyaluronic acid—two key components of youthful, hydrated skin. It highlights the potential of upcycled apple waste as a bioactive ingredient for skin regeneration and anti-aging applications.

In Plain English: Scientists tested a natural extract made from leftover apple pulp to see if it could help skin cells grow and stay healthy. The results showed that it helped skin cells multiply and make more collagen and hyaluronic acid—two things that keep skin firm, smooth, and hydrated. This suggests that even apple leftovers might help your skin look younger.

For Medical Professionals: This in vitro study evaluated the effects of apple pomace extract (APE) on human skin fibroblasts (HSFs). APE significantly increased HSF proliferation at 10–20 µg/mL and upregulated HAS1–3 while downregulating HYAL1, enhancing hyaluronan synthesis and reducing its degradation. ELISA confirmed increased secretion of type I collagen and hyaluronic acid. Western blotting revealed phosphorylation of ERK and Akt, suggesting activation of proliferative and survival pathways. GO analysis indicated enrichment of mitosis-related terms. These findings support APE as a potential dermonutrient for ECM remodeling and skin anti-aging interventions.

Abstract:

Apple pomace is the residue left after apples are squeezed. The majority of pomace produced worldwide is produced by the apple manufacturing industry, however, most of the pomace produced by the industry is discarded. Apple pomace contains functional ingredients, such as polyphenols and triterpenoids, and exerts several beneficial effects on human health; however, studies on its cosmetic effects on the skin are lacking. Therefore, herein, we investigated the effects of apple pomace extract (APE) on human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) in vitro.

When HSFs were cultured with the extract for 72 h, the number of HSFs increased at concentrations of 10 and 20 µg/mL. Transcriptome analysis and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR results revealed that the extract upregulated the expression of hyaluronan synthase (HAS)1,HAS2, andHAS3and downregulated the expression ofHYAL1, a gene encoding the hyaluronan-degrading enzyme, in HSFs.

Additionally, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay revealed increased amounts of factors related to skin extracellular matrix, such as type I collagen and hyaluronic acid, secreted in the culture supernatant.

The western blotting results suggested that the extract induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase and protein kinase B phosphorylation in HSFs. Additionally, several GO_Terms related to mitosis were detected in the Gene Ontology analysis. This is the first study to show that APE induces the proliferation of HSFs and production of factors related to skin anti-aging.

DOI https://doi.org/10.1007/s11130-024-01210-w