Potential of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Extract in Protecting Fibroblast Cells from UV-Induced Aging

Abstract

The skin serves as the body's first line of defence against environmental exposures, making it vulnerable to tissue damage, especially skin aging, which is characterised by a decrease in integrity and structure. Extrinsic factors contribute significantly to skin aging, with UV exposure as the main contributor. In Indonesia, most women realise the signs of ageing in their mid-twenties. This study aimed to investigate the potential of Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract (CXE) as an anti-aging agent by examining its effects on UV-irradiated fibroblast cell viability, MMP-1 gene expression, and collagen content. Cell viability was measured using a cytotoxic assay, MMP-1 expression was measured by RT-PCR, and collagen content was evaluated by ELISA assay. The results showed that CXE significantly increased fibroblast cell viability, with safe concentrations of 12.5; 6.25; 3.13 µg/mL. In addition, CXE administration resulted in a significant decrease in MMP-1 expression and an increase in collagen content in aging cell model, with the best results observed at a concentration of 12.5 µg/mL. These findings suggest that CXE may serve as a natural antioxidant agent to reduce the adverse effects of UV exposure on skin aging, highlighting its potential applications in skin care and dermatological treatments.