TW201414504A - Inhibiting melanogenesis with essential oils extracted from Vitex negundo Linn leaves - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for the inhibition of melanogenesis, in which the use of an essential oil extracted from Vitex negundo Linn leaves is involved therein.

Description

Uses essential oils extracted from Vitex negundo leaves to inhibit melanin production

The present invention relates to the use of an essential oil extracted from Vitex negundo Linn leaves to inhibit melanogenesis.

Melanin is a pigment produced by dermal melanocytes that affects the skin color of animals and humans. When the skin is exposed to ultraviolet light [especially ultraviolet-B (UV-B)], the melanocytes are promoted to melanin synthesis [ie, melanogenesis], thereby protecting the skin's lower cortex ( Hypodermis) is free from photodamage caused by ultraviolet light. However, when a large amount of melanin is accumulated on the skin, it may cause skin disorders such as lentigines, freckles, melasma, age spots, and hyperpigmentation ( Hyperpigmentation) and so on.

For the purpose of skin whitening, most people use the melanin synthesis inhibitors to dilute or remove melanin or dark spots that accumulate on the skin. Most of the currently known melanin synthesis inhibitors regulate melanin production via the following mechanisms of action: (1) before melanin production: for example, inhibition of transcription of tyrosinase [such as C ₂ -neoxime (C _{2 )} -ceramide) and vitamin A acid (tretinoin) and glycosylation [such as calcium D-pantetheine-S-sulfonate (PaSSO ₃ Ca)]; (2) during melanin production: for example Inhibiting the activity of tyrosine [such as hydroquinone, arbutin, and kojic acid]; and (3) after melanin production: for example, promoting melanin decomposition [such as linoleic acid ( Linoleic acid)], inhibits melanosome transfer [such as Niacinamide and serine protease inhibitor] and accelerates skin turnover [such as licorice (liquiritin) and Glycolic acid].

In recent years, the demand for skin whitening and maintenance has increased day by day. However, the melanin synthesis inhibitors currently used have not been effective in reducing or removing melanin. Therefore, researchers in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries are trying to find the active components that are safe and have the effect of inhibiting melanin production from traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) for the needs of the vast medical beauty market. .

Huang Jing (Latin name: Vitex negundo Linn; English common name: five-leaved chaste tree; Hanyu Pinyin: Huang jing; Chinese alias: Mosquito, Chai, Pujing , etc.) is a Verbenaceae ( Vitex ) large aromatic shrub; leaves are palm-shaped, with 5 lanceolate leaflets, a few with 3, leaf margins serrate; flowers terminal, inflorescences arranged into panicles (panicle) The calyx is bell-shaped, the corolla is lavender; the fruit is a succulent drupe. The production areas are mainly distributed in India, East Africa, the Philippines, Malaysia and Taiwan.

According to the records of the traditional Chinese medicine classic "Compendium of Materia Medica", Huang Jing has the effects of removing wind heat, opening meridians, guiding sputum, performing blood gas and relieving heat. In addition, Vitex negun has also been shown to be equivalent to the treatment of rheumatic pain, chronic bronchitis and swelling of the joints. Studies have found that various plant parts of Vitex negunbra (including roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds) have health or therapeutic functions and can be widely used in traditional folk therapy (ASVishwanathan). Et al . (2010), European Journal of Biological Sciences , 3: 30-42). In addition, studies have indicated that the leaves of Vitex negundo have significant anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant and analgesic activities, and these activities may be due to the large amount of polyphenolic compounds in the leaves of Vitex negundo. Terpenoids, glycosidic iridoids, and alkaloids (MGDharmasiri et al . (2003), Journal of Ethnopharmacology , 87:199-206; RKGupta and VRTandon (2005), Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology , 49: 163-170; VRTandon and RKGupta (2005), Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology , 49: 199-205; VRTandon et al . (2008), Fitoterapia , 79: 533 -538).

It has been reported in the literature that the essential oil of Vitex negundo Linn leaf has anti-oxidation and anti-microbial effects. For example, in Pradeep Singh et al . (2010), International Journal of ChemTech Research , 2: 1686-1690, Pradeep Singh et al ., by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus. The essential oil is extracted from the fresh yellow wattle leaves, and the obtained essential oil of the yellow wattle leaves is identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify chemical components and agar diffusion bioassay (agar) Well diffusion bioassay) for antimicrobial assay. The experimental results showed that among the volatile constituents contained in the essential oil of the yellow jingle leaf, the content of sesquiterpene was the highest (47.14%), followed by monoterpene (45.50%) and fatty acid. (fatty acid) (7.36%). The essential oil of the yellow leaf is confirmed to have significant antimicrobial activity for a variety of clinical pathogenic microorganisms, and thus can be used as an antimicrobial agent.

In KS Nagarsekar et al . (2010), Indian J. Pharm . Sci ., 72: 641-643, KS Nagarsekar et al . mainly identified thin leaves chromatography (TLC) from the leaves of Vitex negundo. Chemical composition of supercritical fluid extract, hydrodistillated oil, petroleum ether extract, and ethanol extract, and using paper disc method Method) and a well-diffusion method to analyze the antibacterial activity of the extract or oil of the yellow wattle leaves. The identification of chemical components found that the main component of the ethanol extract of Vitex negundo leaves is flavonoids, the petroleum ether extract of Vitex negundo contains terpenoids and chlorophyll derivatives, and the supercritical fluid of Vitex negundo leaves. The main components of the extract and the water-distilled oil are all terpenoids. In addition, the results of antibacterial activity analysis showed that the supercritical fluid extract of Vitex negundo, the water-distilled oil of Vitex negundo and the petroleum ether extract of Vitex negundo had obvious superior antibacterial potential.

In KS Nagarsekar et al . (2011), Indian J. Pharm . Sci ., 73: 422-429, KS Nagarsekar et al . were mainly identified by thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry from yellow wattle leaves. The chemical composition of the supercritical fluid extract and the ethanol extract, and the use of α,α-diphenyl-β-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) to analyze their antioxidant activity in vitro capacity (in vitro antioxidant ability), and analyzed by using the TBARS method thereof in vivo anti-lipid peroxidation (in vivo antilipid peroxidation ability) and antioxidant capacity in vivo (in vivo antioxidant ability). The identification of the chemical components found that the main component of the ethanol extract of Vitex negundo was negundoside and flavonoids, while the main component of the supercritical fluid extract of Vitex negundo was epiglobulol (epiglobulol). 6.6%) and β-caryophyllene (4.59%). In addition, the supercritical fluid extracts and ethanol extracts of Vitex negundo have the in vitro DPPH free radical scavenging ability and can lower the level of TBARS, and the results measured by the ethanol extract of Vitex negundo leaves are preferred. According to KS Nagarsekar et al., supercritical fluid extracts (i.e., essential oils) and ethanol extracts of Vitex negundo have the potential for antioxidant and anti-lipid peroxidation.

After research, the applicant unexpectedly discovered that the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaves has anti- In addition to the activities of microorganisms, antioxidants and anti-lipid peroxidation, it also has the effect of lowering the melanin content in cells and inhibiting tyrosinase activity. Therefore, essential oils of Vitex negundo are expected to be available as a melanin synthesis inhibitor.

Summary of invention

Thus, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a composition for inhibiting melanin production comprising an essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf, wherein the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf contains one or more terpene compounds, The terpene compound is selected from the group consisting of monoterpene, sesquiterpene or terpenoid compounds.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for inhibiting melanin production comprising administering to a subject in need of inhibition of skin melanin production a composition as described above.

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from

Detailed description of the invention

It is to be understood that if any of the previous publications is quoted here, the prior publication does not constitute an acknowledgement that in Taiwan or any other country, the pre-existing publication forms a common general knowledge in the art. Part of it.

For the purposes of this specification, it will be clearly understood that the term "comprising" means "including but not limited to" and the term "comprises" has a corresponding meaning.

All technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains, unless otherwise defined. A person skilled in the art will recognize many methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein, which can be used to practice the invention. Of course, the invention is in no way limited by the methods and materials described.

In developing drugs that can be used to inhibit melanin production, Applicants have unexpectedly discovered that an essential oil extracted from Vitex negundo leaves has industrial application potential in this respect. Thus, the present invention discloses the use of an essential oil supply extracted from the leaves of Vitex negundo to prepare a medicament for inhibiting melanin production, the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf comprising one or more terpenoids, wherein the terpene compound is selected From monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes or terpenoids.

As used herein, the term "terpene compound" is intended to encompass terpene and terpenoid, wherein the terpenes are primarily linked by isoprene units. a compound having the formula (C ₅ H ₈ ) _n (n represents the number of isoprene units to be linked), and can be classified according to the number of isoprene units, such as monoterpene (n = 2), sesquiterpenes (n = 3), and diiterpene (n = 4). By analogy is meant terpene derivatives, which are primarily compounds formed after the terpene has undergone chemical modification [such as oxidation or carbon skeleton rearrangement of the carbon skeleton]. Examples of terpenoids include, but are not limited to, terpenoid alcohols, terpenoid ketones, terpenoid esters, terpenoid ethers, terpenoid acids, and the like. Terpenoid oxide.

As used herein, the terms "inhibition of melanogenesis" and "inhibition of melanin synthesis", "depigmenting", "lightening the melanin", "whitening" (whitening), "skin color lightening", "bleaching", "whitening", "brightening", "blackening", and "blackening" can be used interchangeably.

As used herein, the terms "essential oil" and "volatile oil" and "ethereal oil" are used interchangeably.

According to the present invention, the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves is prepared by subjecting the yellow wattle leaves to an extraction treatment selected from the group consisting of: hydrodistillation, steam distillation (steam) Distillation), water and steam distillation, and supercritical fluid extraction. The operating procedures and parameter conditions for these extraction treatments fall within the professional literacy and routine techniques of those skilled in the art. In this regard, reference is made, for example, to Naima Sahraoui et al . (2008), Journal of Chromatography A , 1210: 229-233; Pradeep Singh et al . (2010), supra; KS Nagarsekar et al . (2010), Above; KS Nagarsekar et al . (2011), supra; Chen-Lung Ho et al . (2012), Natural Product Communications , 7:261-264; Tiziana Fornari et al . (2012), Journal of Chromatography A , 1250: 34-48; and Baya Berka-Zougali et al . (2012), Int . J. Mol . Sci ., 13: 4673-4695.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the extract is from the essence of the yellow wattle The oil is produced by subjecting the leaves of Vitex negundo to one-water distillation.

According to the present invention, the yellow wattle leaves can be obtained from tropical countries such as East Africa, South Africa, and Asia, including, but not limited to, Taiwan, India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka), Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Kenya, Madagascar, and Tanzania. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the yellow wattle leaf is obtained from Taiwan.

According to the present invention, fresh Vitex negun leaves may be used for extraction in the preparation of essential oils of Vitex negundo leaves, or extraction may be carried out using a yellow wattle leaf previously selected from a group consisting of: freezing (freezing) , lyophilizing, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves is obtained by extracting fresh yellow leaves and extracting them.

It can be understood that the type and content of the terpene compound contained in the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf may be affected by the following factors: the source, cultivation and harvest of the leaves of the yellow wattle used for extraction. Harvesting procedures and extraction methods. Therefore, those skilled in the art can select suitable yellow wattle leaves and extraction operating conditions as needed to obtain essential oils corresponding to the yellow wattle leaves required by the present invention.

Preferably, the essential oil extracted from the leaves of the yellow wattle contains a sesquiterpene compound ranging from 30 to 60% (w/w), a monoterpene compound ranging from 10 to 35% (w/w), and A terpenoid-like compound that falls within 15-40% (w/w). More preferably, the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves contains a range of 40- a sesquiterpene compound within 55% (w/w), a monoterpene compound ranging from 15-30% (w/w), and a terpenoid ranging from 20-30% (w/w) Compound.

According to the present invention, the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves comprises a sesquiterpene compound selected from the group consisting of caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, eremophilene, and Their combination.

According to the present invention, the essential oil extracted from the leaves of Vitex negundo contains a monoterpene compound selected from the group consisting of sabinene, cymene, and combinations thereof.

According to the present invention, the essential oil extracted from the leaves of Vitex negundo contains a terpenoid compound selected from the group consisting of terpenoid alcohol, terpenoid ketone, terpenoid ester. ), terpenoid ethers, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the sterol is linalool, the oxime ester is terpinyl acetate, the oxime ether is eucalyptol, and the fluorenone is menthone (menthone) ).

The essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf according to the present invention has been confirmed by an in vitro test to effectively inhibit melanin production and tyrosinase activity of skin melanoma cells, and is compared with Known skin lightening agents [such as arbutin] have a more potent melanin production inhibitory effect.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a composition for inhibiting melanin production comprising an essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf as described above.

In accordance with the present invention, the composition can be made into a dosage form suitable for parenterally, topically or orally administration using techniques well known to those skilled in the art, including , but not limited to: injection (for example, sterile aqueous solution or dispersion), sterile powder, tablets, tablets, troche, Pills, capsules, external preparations, and the like.

The composition according to the present invention may further comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier which is widely used in pharmaceutical manufacturing techniques. For example, the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier can comprise one or more agents selected from the group consisting of solvents, buffers, emulsifiers, suspending agents, decomposers. ), a disintegrating agent, a dispersing agent, a binding agent, an excipient, a stabilizing agent, a chelating agent, a diluent (diluent) A gelling agent, a preservative, a wetting agent, a lubricant, an absorption delaying agent, a liposome, and the like.

According to the present invention, the composition may be selected from a parenteral route in a group consisting of subcutaneous injection, intraepidermal injection, intradermal administration. Intradermal injection and intralesional injection. Preferably, the composition is made to be suitable for A dosage form that is administered intradermally and is administered.

In accordance with the present invention, the composition can be made into a dosage form suitable for oral administration using techniques well known to those skilled in the art, including, but not limited to, sterile powders, lozenges. Tablet, troche, lozenge, pellet, capsule, dispersible powder or granule, solution, suspension, emulsion (emulsion), syrup, elixir, slurry, and the like.

In accordance with the present invention, the composition can also be manufactured into an external preparation suitable for topical application to the skin using techniques well known to those skilled in the art, including, but not limited to, emulsions. , gel, ointment, cream, patch, liniment, powder, aerosol, spray, lotion , serum, paste, foam, drop, suspension, salve, and bandage.

In accordance with the present invention, the external formulation is prepared by mixing the compositions of the present invention with a base well known to those skilled in the art.

According to the invention, the substrate may comprise one or more additives selected from the group consisting of water, alcohols, glycols, hydrocarbons [such as petroleum jelly and white). White petrolatum, wax (such as paraffin and yellow wax), preserving agents, antioxidants, surfactants, absorption enhancers (absorption) enhancers), stabilizers (stabilizing agents), gelling agent (gelling agents) [such as Carbopol ^® 974P (carbopol ^® 974P), microcrystalline cellulose (microcrystalline cellulose) and carboxymethyl cellulose (carboxymethylcellulose)], the activity of Active agents, humectants, odor absorbers, fragrances, pH adjusting agents, chelating agents, emulsifiers, occlusive agents Occlusive agents), emollients, thickeners, solubilizing agents, penetration enhancers, anti-irritants ), colorants, propellants, and the like. The selection and quantity of these additives falls within the professionalism and routine technology of those skilled in the art.

The present invention also provides a method for inhibiting melanin production comprising administering a composition as described above to an individual in need of inhibiting skin melanin production. Preferably, the method comprises applying an effective amount of the composition to the skin of the individual and for a sufficient period of time until the melanin is significantly diluted.

As used herein, the terms "administering" and "administering" and "application" are used interchangeably.

As used herein, the term "effective amount" means that when the composition of the present invention is administered to an individual in need of inhibiting skin melanin production, it is sufficient to provide the desired melanin production inhibitory effect and does not A safe amount of undesired adverse side effects on the skin.

As used herein, the terms "effective amount" and "effective amount (effective "Dose", "melanogenesis-inhibiting effective amount" and "melanogenesis-inhibiting effective dose" can be used interchangeably.

According to the present invention, the effective amount and frequency of application of the composition vary depending on factors such as the initial condition of the skin region to be inhibited by melanin production, the route of administration, and the desired administration. The final melanin production inhibitory effect. In general, when the composition according to the present invention is administered topically, the effective amount per administration is usually from 0.01 to 0.05 mg/cm 2 of skin area, about 1 to 3 times per day. Whereas when the composition according to the invention is administered orally or parenterally, the effective amount per administration is usually from 0.05 to 0.1 mg/kg body weight, about one to three times per day.

The advantageous effect of the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf according to the present invention in inhibiting melanin production, the present invention also contemplates the use of a composition as described above for the preparation of a cosmetic for inhibiting melanin production.

According to the present invention, the composition may further comprise a cosmetically acceptable adjuvant which is widely used in cosmetic manufacturing techniques. For example, the cosmetically acceptable adjuvant may comprise one or more agents selected from the group consisting of solvents, gelling agents, active agents, preservatives, antioxidants, screening agents, chelating agents, surfactants. , coloring agents, thickening agents, fillers, perfumes, and odor absorbers. The selection and quantity of these reagents falls within the professional literacy and routine skills of those skilled in the art.

In accordance with the present invention, the composition can be made into a form suitable for skincare or makeup using techniques well known to those skilled in the art, including, but not limited to, aqueous solutions, An aqueous-alcohol solution or an oily solution, an oil-in-water type, a water-in-oil type or a composite emulsion, Gel, ointment, cream, mask, patch, pack, liniment, powder, aerosol, spray, lotion, serum, paste, foam, dispersion, drops, mousse (mousse), sunblock, tonic water, foundation, makeup remover products, soap, and other body cleansing products.

According to the present invention, the composition may also be used in combination with one or more external use agents selected from the following activities: whitening agents [such as tretinoin, catechins) Catechin, citric acid, arbutin and vitamin C], moisturizers, anti-inflammatory agents, bactericides, ultraviolet absorbers, plant extracts [such as aloe extract], skin nutrients, anesthetics, anti-acne agents, antipruritic, analgesic, anti-dermatitis Antidermatitis agents, antihyperkeratolytic agents, anti-dry skin agents, antipsoriatic agents, antiaging agents, antiwrinkle agents Anti-seborrheic agents, Wound-healing agents, corticosteroids, and hormones. The selection and quantity of these external preparations falls within the professional literacy and routine technology of those who are familiar with the technology.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiment

The invention is further described in the following examples, but it should be understood that these examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting.

Example Example 1. Preparation of essential oil of Vitex negundo Linn leaves

First, 2 kg of fresh Vitex leaves collected from the Taichung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station were placed in a still pot of a Clevenger-type apparatus. Then, 2000 mL of secondary water (ddH ₂ O) was added and hydrodistillation was carried out at 100 ° C for 2 hours. During the distillation of water, the volatile components produced are condensed to form a condensate when passed through a condenser connected to the top of the still, and then flow into a condensate. In a still receiver connected to the condenser. Next, the distillation liquid trap was left at room temperature and allowed to stand for 30 minutes, so that the condensate formed an aqueous layer and an oily layer above the aqueous layer. Thereafter, the oily layer was collected to obtain an essential oil of a yellow wattle leaf, which was then placed in a glass bottle and sealed, and then stored in a refrigerator at 4 ° C for use.

Example 2. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of essential oil of Vitex negundo

In order to understand the chemical composition of the essential oil of the yellow wattle obtained by the present invention, the essential oil of the yellow wattle obtained according to the above Example 1 was subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis.

experimental method:

The GC-MS analytical instrument used in this experiment was as follows: Thermo GC-MS system (Trace DSQ-Mass Spectrometer, MSD 201351, Thermo, Minneapolis, MN, USA); analytical column was EquityTM ^-5 capillary column (Supelco, St. Louis, MO, USA), which has a length of 30 m and an inside diameter of 0.25 mm, and uses a film having a thickness of 0.25 μm. The GC-MS operating conditions are shown in Table 1 below.

First, a known species containing 8 Analysis C solution of n-alkanes _{(C 5 -C 12 n -alkane compounds} ) in _{5 -C 12 (analytical solution) (} Method DM 471 Standard Mixture 4, D471-D, Ultra Scientific) and an analytical solution containing 16 known C ₁₀ -C ₂₅ n-alkane compounds [DRO Mixture (Tennessee-Mississippi), UST-210, Ultra Scientific] with a 1:1 (v/v) The ratios were mixed well, thereby obtaining a standard solution. Then, 0.01 mL of each of the obtained standard solution and the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf is taken, and then injected into a GC-MS analytical instrument for analysis, thereby obtaining the standard solution and the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf sequentially. The linear retention indices (RIs) and mass spectra of the individual components contained. Thereafter, the linear retention index (RIs) measured for each component was taken separately from the linear retention index of the compound published in the conventional literature (Vandendool, H. et al . (1963), Journal of Chromatography , 11:463 -471) for comparison, and the mass spectra measured for each component were taken with the Trace DSQ-MASS spectral database (Trace DSQ-MASS spectra database, Thermo, USA) and the Wiley and NIST mass spectral database (Wiley and NIST). Mass spectra of known compounds in mass spectral databases) were compared to identify the species of the compound contained in the essential oil of the yellow leaf.

result:

Table 2 below shows the results of component analysis of the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf of the present invention by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. It can be seen from Table 2 that among the compounds contained in the essential oil of the yellow porch leaf, the highest content ratio is sesquiterpene (44.41%), followed by terpenoid (28.66%) [including steroid-like esters. (terpenoid ester) (14.77%), terpenoid alcohol (8.53%), terpenoid ketone (4.96%) and terpenoid ether (0.4%)] and monoterpene ) (25.15%).

Example 3. Evaluation of the efficacy of essential oil of Vitex negundo on inhibiting melanogenesis

In this example, the applicant selected B16F10 cells with α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced melanogenesis for in vitro experiments. The melanin content and the tyrosinase activity are used as indicators of melanogenesis to evaluate the effect of the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf of the present invention on inhibiting melanin production.

Experimental Materials: A. Preparation of stock solution of essential oil of Vitex negundo:

The essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf prepared in the above Example 1 was diluted with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) to obtain a stock solution having a concentration of 360 mg/mL for the following experiment.

B. Source and culture of mouse skin melanoma cell line B16F10:

The mouse skin melanoma cell line B16F10 (BCRC 60031) (corresponding to ATCC CRL-6475) used in this example is a biotechnology purchased from the Food Industry Research and Development Institute (FIRDI) in Taiwan. Resource Conservation and Research Center (BCRC).

B16F10 cells were cultured in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) (Hyclone Laboratories, Logan, Utah) [added with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) (Gibco, USA), 100 IU/mL penicillin and 50 μg/mL streptomycin] in a 9-cm petri dish, followed by culture conditions set to 37 ° C and 5% The culture was carried out in an incubator of CO ₂ . After that, fresh medium was replaced approximately every 2 days. When the cell density reached about 80% confluence, the medium was removed and the cells were washed twice with Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS), followed by trypsin-EDTA (trypsin-EDTA). The cells are detached from the bottom of the dish. Thereafter, fresh medium is added to neutralize the activity of trypsin and the medium is repeatedly aspirated by a pipette to fully break up the cells, and then the formed cell suspension is dispensed into a new dish and cultured. The conditions were set to be cultured in an incubator of 37 ° C and 5% CO ₂ .

Experimental method : A. B16F10 cells with α-MSH-induced melanogenesis were treated with essential oil of huangjingye and arbutin:

First, B16F10 cells were inoculated separately into 24-well plates containing 1 mL of DMEM [10% FBS, 100 IU/mL penicillin, 50 μg/mL streptomycin, and 100 nM α-MSH)] In the well plate) (5 × 10 ⁴ cells/well), culture was carried out in an incubator (37 ° C, 5% CO ₂ ) for 24 hours, and B16F10 cells were induced to produce melanin.

Thereafter, the B16F10 cells that were induced to produce melanin were divided into 5 groups, including 1 control group, 1 positive control group, and 3 experimental groups (ie, experimental groups 1, 2, and 3). ). Next, each group of cells was replaced with fresh DMEM (with 10% FBS, 100 IU/mL penicillin, and 50 μg/mL streptomycin) without α-MSH, and then the appropriate amount was based on the above "Experimental Materials" The stock solution obtained in item A was added to the experimental groups 1, 2 and 3, so that the experimental groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively had a final concentration of 0.6 mg/mL, 0.8 mg/mL and 1.0 mg/mL of the yellow wattle leaves. Essential oils. In addition, the positive control group was added with arbutin (54.5 mg/mL) (Sigma) to a final concentration of 0.545 mg/mL, while the control group was added with DMSO to a final concentration of 0.3% (v/v). After the cells of each group were cultured in an incubator (37 ° C, 5% CO ₂ ) for 24 hours, the cell culture was collected and taken for the experiments of items B and C below.

B, determination of melanin content:

The determination of the melanin content is carried out in accordance with the method described in Tsuboi et al . (1998), Pigment Cell Res ., 11: 275-282, with minor modifications. Briefly, each group of cell cultures obtained in item A of the above "Experimental Methods" was washed twice with PBS, and then 500 μL of trypsin-EDTA was separately added to detach the cells from the bottom of the plate. . Thereafter, 2 mL of fresh medium was added to neutralize trypsin activity, and then the resulting mixed solution was pipetted into a 15 mL centrifuge tube and centrifuged at 5,000 g for 5 minutes. After removing the supernatant, the obtained precipitate was sufficiently dispersed with 500 μL of 1 N NaOH, and then heat-treated at 60 ° C for 60 minutes. Next, 200 μL of each of the resulting mixtures was taken, and the absorbance (OD ₄₀₅ ) was measured by a spectrophotometer (Thermo Scientific, Vantaa, Finland) at a wavelength of 405 nm.

The melanin content (%) is calculated by substituting the measured absorbance value (OD ₄₀₅ ) into the following formula (1): Formula (1): A = (B/C) × 100

Where: A = melanin content (%)

B = measured OD ₄₀₅ absorbance of each group

C = OD ₄₀₅ absorbance measured in the control group

In addition, the concentration of 50% inhibition concentration (IC ₅₀ ) of the essential oil of Vitex negundo L. is calculated by calculating the essential oil of Vitex negundo leaves to reduce the absorbance of the α-MSH-treated B16F10 cells by 50% (with the control group) The concentration of the cells was determined from the linear portion of the curve (n=3).

C. Determination of tyrosinase activity:

The determination of tyrosinase activity is carried out by reference to the method described in Yang J.-Y. et al . (2006), Acta Pharmacol . Sin ., 27: 1467-1473, with minor modifications. Briefly, the cell culture obtained in item A of the above "Experimental Method" was washed twice with PBS, followed by 500 μL of lysis buffer [containing 1.0% (v/v) Triton X-100, 50 mM PBS (pH 7.5) and 0.1 mM phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) were applied to the cells using an Ultrasonic cleaner (Model UC-10200BDT, Chrom Tech). Ultrasonic homogenization treatment is performed. Next, 100 μL of each of the obtained cell homogenates was added, followed by 200 μL of freshly prepared L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA). The solution [0.1% (v/v) in PBS] was reacted at 37 ° C for 30 minutes. Thereafter, the resulting mixture was taken out of each 200 μL, and at a wavelength of 490 nm in a micro plate reader instrument ^{Gen 5 TM (microplate reader Gen 5} TM) (BIO-TEK Instrument, Winooski, VT, USA) to the amount of The absorbance value (OD ₄₉₀ ) was measured.

Tyrase activity (%) is calculated by substituting the measured absorbance value (OD ₄₉₀ ) into the following formula (2): Formula (2): D = (E/F) × 100

Where: D = tyrosinase activity (%)

E = measured OD ₄₉₀ absorbance of each group

F = OD ₄₉₀ absorbance measured in the control group

In addition, the concentration of 50% inhibition concentration (IC ₅₀ ) of the essential oil of Vitex negundo L. is calculated by calculating the essential oil of Vitex negundo leaves to reduce the absorbance of the α-MSH-treated B16F10 cells by 50% (and The concentration of the cells in the control group was determined from the linear portion of the curve (n = 3).

D, statistical analysis (statistical analysis):

In the present example, the experiments of each group were repeated 3 times, and the obtained experimental data was statistically analyzed using SPSS 12.0 (SPSS INC., Chicago, IL, USA) statistical software, and the mean value ± standard deviation ( Standard Deviation, SD) to indicate. All data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) to assess the difference between each experimental group or positive control group and control group. If the statistical analysis obtained is p < 0.05, this indicates statistical significance.

result: A, determination of melanin content:

Figure 1 shows the melanin content of B16F10 cells induced by melanin production after treatment with essential oils of different concentrations of Vitex negundo. As can be seen from Fig. 1, the melanin content of the cells of the experimental groups 1 to 3 was significantly lower than that of the control group, and it became more apparent as the concentration of the essential oil of the yellow bud leaves increased. In addition, the melanin content of the cells of the experimental groups 1 to 3 also decreased when compared with the positive control group. In particular, the inhibition of essential oil of Vitex negundo leaves 50% of the concentration of melanin production (IC ₅₀₎ of about 0.86 mg / mL. The results of this experiment show that the essential oil of Vitex negundo leaves according to the present invention has a potent inhibitory effect on melanin production by α-MSH-treated B16F10 cells.

B. Determination of tyrosinase activity:

Figure 2 shows the tyrosinase activity measured by B16F10 cells induced by melanin after treatment with essential oils of different concentrations of Vitex negundo. As can be seen from Fig. 2, compared with the control group, the tyrosinase activity of the cells of the experimental groups 1 to 3 was significantly lowered, and it became more apparent as the concentration of the essential oil of the yellow bud leaves increased. In addition, the tyrosinase activity of the cells of the experimental groups 1 to 3 was also lowered when compared with the positive control group. Specifically, the concentration of the 50% tyrosinase activity (IC ₅₀ ) of the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf was about 0.43 mg/mL. The results of this experiment show that the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf according to the present invention can effectively inhibit the tyrosinase activity of the α-MSH-treated B16F10 cells.

Based on the above experimental results, it is known that the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf of the present invention can more effectively inhibit the activity of intracellular tyrosinase and the production of melanin than the skin whitening agent (such as arbutin) which is currently used. Achieve the effect of skin whitening. Therefore, Applicants believe that the essential oil of the yellow wattle leaf according to the present invention has a high potential to develop into a melanin synthesis inhibitor (i.e., a skin whitening agent).

Figure 1 shows the melanin content of B16F10 cells induced by melanin production after treatment with essential oils of different concentrations of Vitex negundo, wherein the control group represents cells treated with 0.3% (v/v) DMSO; 3 indicates cells treated with essential oils of Vitex negundo leaves at 0.6 mg/mL, 0.8 mg/mL, and 1.0 mg/mL, respectively; positive control group indicates cells treated with 0.545 mg/mL arbutin; and “*” and “ * * *" respectively: p < 0.05 and p < 0.001 when compared with the control group; and Figure 2 shows tyramine measured after B16F10 cells induced by melanin were treated with different concentrations of essential oil from Vitex negundo. Acidase activity, wherein the control group represents cells treated with 0.3% (v/v) DMSO; the experimental groups 1 to 3 represent essential oils of Vitex negundo treated with 0.6 mg/mL, 0.8 mg/mL, and 1.0 mg/mL, respectively. The positive control group indicates cells treated with 0.545 mg/mL arbutin; and "*" and "* * *" respectively indicate that p < 0.05 and p < 0.001 when compared with the control group.

Claims (19)

A composition for inhibiting melanin production, comprising an essential oil extracted from yellow wattle leaves, wherein the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves comprises one or more terpenoids selected from the group consisting of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. Or a terpenoid compound. The composition of claim 1, wherein the monoterpene compound is selected from the group consisting of terpenes, isopropyl toluene, and combinations thereof. The composition of claim 1, wherein the sesquiterpene compound is selected from the group consisting of caryophyllene, oxidized carbenene, pedicene, and combinations thereof. The composition of claim 1, wherein the quinone compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, fluorenones, decyl steroids, decyl ethers, and combinations thereof. The composition of claim 1, wherein the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves is obtained by subjecting the yellow wattle leaves to an extraction treatment selected from the group consisting of: water distillation, steam distillation, Steam distillation and supercritical fluid extraction. For example, the composition of claim 1 is in a dosage form for topical administration. For example, the composition of claim 1 is a dosage form for oral administration. For example, the composition of claim 1 is in a form for parenteral administration. An essential oil supply extracted from the yellow wattle leaf for preparing a medicine for inhibiting melanin production, the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf contains one or more terpenoids, wherein the terpene compound is selected from the group consisting of A sesquiterpenoid or anthraquinone-like compound. The use of claim 9, wherein the monoterpene compound is selected from the group consisting of terpenes, isopropyl toluene, and combinations thereof. The use according to claim 9, wherein the sesquiterpene compound is selected from the group consisting of caryophyllene, oxidized carbenene, pedicene, and combinations thereof. The use of claim 9, wherein the quinone compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, fluorenones, steroids, steroids, and combinations thereof. The use of the ninth aspect of the patent application, wherein the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves is obtained by subjecting the yellow wattle leaves to an extraction treatment selected from the group consisting of: water distillation, steam distillation, water Steam distillation and supercritical fluid extraction. An essential oil supply extracted from the leaves of the yellow wattle for preparing a cosmetic for inhibiting melanin production, the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaf contains one or more terpenoids, wherein the terpene compound is selected from the group consisting of A semiquinone or terpenoid compound. The use of claim 14, wherein the monoterpene compound is selected from the group consisting of terpenes, isopropyl toluene, and combinations thereof. The use according to claim 14, wherein the sesquiterpene compound is selected from the group consisting of caryophyllene, oxidized carbenene, pedicene, and combinations thereof. The use according to claim 14, wherein the quinone compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, fluorenones, decyl steroids, decyl ethers, and combinations thereof. The use of the invention of claim 14, wherein the essential oil extracted from the yellow wattle leaves is obtained by subjecting the yellow wattle leaves to an extraction treatment selected from the group consisting of: water distillation, steam distillation, water Steam distillation and supercritical fluid extraction. The use of claim 14 wherein the cosmetic is in a form for topical administration.