MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Antioxidant Potential-Rich Betel Leaves (Piper betle L.) Exert Depigmenting Action by Triggering Autophagy and Downregulating MITF/Tyrosinase In Vitro and In Vivo

Summary

This research shows that betel leaves, a traditional herb used in Asian cultures, can lighten skin pigmentation through multiple mechanisms. The extract works by reducing tyrosinase enzyme activity, activating cellular cleanup processes called autophagy, and boosting the body’s natural antioxidant defenses. In both laboratory cells and living mice exposed to UV radiation, betel leaves extract effectively reduced unwanted skin darkening, suggesting it could be developed into safe natural skin-whitening products.

Background

Melanin synthesis is regulated by oxidative stress and various signaling pathways. Excessive melanin accumulation causes hyperpigmentation disorders. Betel leaves have been used traditionally in Asian medicine but their depigmenting potential has not been thoroughly investigated.

Objective

To investigate the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant and depigmenting properties of betel leaves extract and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms involving autophagy, tyrosinase inhibition, and signaling pathways.

Results

PBLE demonstrated potent tyrosinase inhibition (IC50=7.72 μg/mL for mushroom tyrosinase) and significantly reduced melanin synthesis in cells. PBLE suppressed MITF, tyrosinase, and related proteins through p38/JNK MAPK activation and cAMP/CREB pathway inhibition. Autophagy activation markers (LC3-II, Atg5, Beclin 1) were elevated while p62 was reduced. In vivo, PBLE reduced UVB-induced pigmentation and increased antioxidant enzyme activities.

Conclusion

Betel leaves extract exhibits potent depigmenting effects through multiple mechanisms including tyrosinase inhibition, autophagy induction, MAPK pathway activation, and antioxidant enhancement. These findings support its development as a natural skin-whitening and antiaging agent in cosmetic formulations.
  • Published in:Antioxidants (Basel),
  • Study Type:In Vitro and In Vivo Study,
  • Source: PMID: 36829933
Scroll to Top