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Tyrosinase Inhibitors Derived from Chemical Constituents of Dianella ensifolia

Summary

Researchers isolated four new plant compounds and 67 known compounds from Dianella ensifolia, a traditional Asian medicinal plant. Two of these compounds (11 and 14) were found to inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, making them approximately 13 times more effective than arbutin, a common cosmetic whitening ingredient. These findings suggest that D. ensifolia could be developed as a natural source of skin-whitening agents for treating age spots, freckles, and other pigmentation disorders.

Background

Dianella ensifolia is a perennial herb widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands, traditionally used as herbal medicine. Melanin overproduction and abnormal melanogenesis can lead to various dermatological disorders such as melasma, freckles, and lentigo. Tyrosinase inhibitors offer potential for treatment and prevention of hyperpigmentation disorders.

Objective

To investigate the phytochemistry and tyrosinase inhibitory effects of constituents isolated from D. ensifolia. To identify new natural tyrosinase inhibitors that could serve as whitening candidates from Formosan medicinal plants.

Results

Four new flavans and 67 known compounds were isolated from D. ensifolia. Compounds 11 and 14 strongly inhibited mushroom tyrosinase with IC50 values of 8.6 and 14.5 μM respectively, approximately 13-fold and 7.7-fold more potent than arbutin (positive control). Compounds with 2′,4′-resorcinol or catechol moiety in the B-ring showed the strongest anti-tyrosinase activity.

Conclusion

D. ensifolia is a valuable source of natural-based whitening agents with anti-tyrosinase properties. The presence of 2′,4′-resorcinol or catechol moiety in the B-ring of flavonoids appears essential for anti-tyrosinase activity. Selected compounds display potential as natural alternatives to conventional whitening agents in cosmetic and medicinal applications.
  • Published in:Plants (Basel),
  • Study Type:Phytochemical Analysis and In Vitro Bioactivity Evaluation,
  • Source: PMID: 36015447, DOI: 10.3390/plants11162142
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