Skin aging is a complex biological process influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, often exacerbated by chronic low-grade inflammation, a phenomenon termed “inflammaging”. This inflammatory environment contributes to the degradation of the skin’s structural components, such as collagen, and impairs its barrier function. While ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) has been traditionally recognized for its medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects, research in skincare has predominantly focused on its saponins and polysaccharides. To address the underexplored potential of other bioactive components, this study systematically investigates ginseng peptides (GPs) and their extract (GPE) as a promising avenue for combating inflammaging and promoting skin rejuvenation.
Methods
This research employed a multifaceted approach, starting with the preparation of ginseng peptide extract through enzymatic hydrolysis. The study then utilized in vitro assays on RAW264.7 macrophages and human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and collagen-promoting properties of GPE. Further validation was conducted using 3D epidermal and dermal skin models to assess GPE’s ability to mitigate UV-induced damage and enhance skin barrier function and collagen content. Finally, machine learning models were used to screen and prioritize potential bioactive peptides within the GPE, with subsequent in vitro validation of selected candidates.
Key Findings
•Ginseng peptide extract (GPE) demonstrated significant antioxidant activity by effectively reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS).
•In RAW264.7 macrophages, GPE exhibited anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the levels of key inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β) and nitric oxide (NO).
•GPE was found to enhance collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts (HSFs), suggesting a potential anti-aging mechanism.
•In 3D skin models subjected to UV irradiation, GPE treatment mitigated damage, restored skin barrier proteins (filaggrin, loricrin, TGM1), and significantly increased collagen content.
•Computational screening identified 19 candidate peptides, and further in vitro validation highlighted three specific peptides (QEGIYPNNDLYRPK, VDCPTDDATDDYRLK, and ADEVVHHPLDKSSEVE) with notable collagen-promoting, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities.
This study provides a novel and comprehensive evaluation of ginseng peptides as multifunctional bioactive agents for skincare, moving beyond the traditional focus on ginseng saponins and polysaccharides. By integrating in vitro and ex vivo experimental models with advanced computational screening, the research successfully identified and validated the anti-inflammatory and anti-aging potential of GPE and specific ginseng-derived peptides. The findings highlight the efficacy of these peptides in reducing inflammation, promoting collagen synthesis, and protecting against UV-induced skin damage. This research opens new avenues for the development of innovative cosmeceutical formulations targeting inflammaging and skin rejuvenation. Future research should focus on elucidating the precise molecular mechanisms of these peptides, conducting clinical trials to confirm their efficacy and safety in humans, and exploring their synergistic effects with other bioactive compounds to optimize their application in skincare.
Link to the study: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/12/2/85
