Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory skin disorder that affects approximately 2–3% of the global population due to significant genetic predisposition. It is characterized by an uncontrolled growth and differentiation of keratinocytes, leading to the formation of scaly erythematous plaques. Psoriasis extends beyond dermatological manifestations to impact joints and nails and is often associated with systemic disorders. Although traditional treatments provide relief, their use is limited by potential side effects and the chronic nature of the disease. This review aims to discuss the therapeutic potential of keratinocyte-targeting natural products in psoriasis and highlight their efficacy and safety in comparison with conventional treatments. This review comprehensively examines psoriasis pathogenesis within keratinocytes and the various related signaling pathways (such as JAK-STAT and NF-κB) and cytokines. It presents molecular targets such as high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), dual-specificity phosphatase-1 (DUSP1), and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) for treating psoriasis. It evaluates the ability of natural compounds such as luteolin, piperine, and glycyrrhizin to modulate psoriasis-related pathways. Finally, it offers insights into alternative and sustainable treatment options with fewer side effects.

Phyllanthus emblica is widely used in Ayurvedic preparations against multiple disorders and contains various bioactive components. This study aimed to determine the preventive effect of P. emblica on obesity by evaluating the inhibition of adipogenesis and the related regulatory epigenetic mechanisms during 3T3-L1 differentiation. The ethyl acetate fraction of P. emblica (EFPE) effectively inhibited lipid accumulation and triglyceride (TG) production in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. It also inhibited histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity and regulated Pcaf-specific H3K9 acetylation and the expression of adipogenesis-related genes during adipocyte differentiation. Phenolic compounds were the main components of EFPE, of which gallic acid (GA) exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation and TG production. Notably, GA effectively regulated adipogenesis-mediated gene expression through H3K9 acetylation. These findings, along with the experiment results, suggest that EFPE containing GA is a potent agent for preventing obesity by regulating H3K9 acetylation.

Jae-In Lee and Min-Yu Chung. Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition 2021;50:1282-91. https://doi.org/10.3746/jkfn.2021.50.12.1282

Park SH, et al. Nutr Res Pract. 2023 Feb;17(1):13-31. https://doi.org/10.4162/nrp.2023.17.1.13

Jae-In Lee, Min-Yu Chung, Seon Kyeong Park, Seul-Min Hong, Young-Soo Kim, and Jae-Ho Park. Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition 2023;52:241-9. https://doi.org/10.3746/jkfn.2023.52.3.241

Doxorubicin (DOX), an anthracycline-based chemotherapeutic agent, is widely used to treat various types of cancer; however, prolonged treatment induces cardiomyotoxicity. Although studies have been performed to overcome DOX-induced cardiotoxicity (DICT), no effective method is currently available. This study investigated the effects and potential mechanisms of Poncirus trifoliata aqueous extract (PTA) in DICT. Changes in cell survival were assessed in H9c2 rat cardiomyocytes and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. The C57BL/6 mice were treated with DOX to induce DICT in vivo, and alterations in electrophysiological characteristics, serum biomarkers, and histological features were examined. The PTA treatment inhibited DOX-induced decrease in H9c2 cell viability but did not affect the MDA-MB-231 cell viability. Additionally, the PTA restored the abnormal heart rate, R-R interval, QT interval, and ST segment and inhibited the decrease in serum cardiac and hepatic toxicity indicators in the DICT model. Moreover, the PTA administration protected against myocardial fibrosis and apoptosis in the heart tissue of mice with DICT. PTA treatment restored DOX-induced decrease in the expression of NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone acceptor oxidoreductase 1 in a PTA concentration-dependent manner. In conclusion, the PTA inhibitory effect on DICT is attributable to its antioxidant properties, suggesting the potential of PTA as a phytotherapeutic agent for DICT.