Anti-aging effects of Muntingia calabura leaves extract in D-galactose-induced skin aging mouse model

Abstract

Glycation and production of free radicals become important mechanisms underlying skin aging. Muntingia calabura is reported to have antioxidant activity in many studies. The effects of M. calabura aqueous leaves extract (MCALE) on oxidative stress and histological changes of mouse model of skin aging were evaluated in this research. Twenty male albino mice were divided into five groups: healthy control; aging control; aging + MCALE 35 mg/kg; aging + MCALE 70 mg/kg; and aging+vitamin C 28 mg/kg. To induce aging condition, oral gavage of D-galactose 500 mg/kg/day were given for 6 weeks. Prior to treatment, blood samples were taken for malondealdehyde (MDA) analyses. MCALE and vitamin C were administered subsequently by oral gavage for 4 weeks and at the end, MDA analyses were performed again. Routine and van Gieson's staining were performed to analyze epidermal thickness, fibroblast cell, and density of dermal collagen. Groups received MCALE 70 mg/kg and vitamin C had lower plasma MDA level; higher fibroblast number and density of collagen bundles which is reduced in the aging group (p < 0.05). However, epidermal thickness among the five groups was not significantly different. It was concluded that MCALE had antioxidant and anti-aging effects on D-galactose-induced mouse model of skin aging.