Solvent fractions of fermented Trapa japonica fruit extract stimulate collagen synthesis through TGF-β1/GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway in human dermal fibroblasts.

The dermis, composed predominantly of dermal fibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM), consists of fibrous proteins such as collagen and elastin and is associated with wrinkle formation and dermal elasticity. As the major constituent of the dermal matrix, collagen strengthens the skin, enhances its elasticity and protects it from external factors, such as ultraviolet (UV) rays, skin inflammation, intracellular metabolites, and aging.Economic growth and long-life expectancy have increased the interest in beauty, with extensive studies conducted to evaluate the anti-aging and health-promoting benefits of bioactive substances.In this study, we used natural ingredients, Trapa japonica fruit is a hard, aquatic plant that grows in ponds or marshes and contains protein and starch. To develop the ingredients for comprehensive skin improvement, this study investigated the effects of the trapa japonica fruit extract on the improvement of skin cells.We investigated the role of the fermented hot-water trapa japonica fruit extract to isolate the active ingredients with antiwrinkle effects in vitro and ex vivo situation through human dermal fibroblast cell proliferation via activating TGF-β1/GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway.