Researchers Discover Antioxidant Benefits in Black Poplar Extract

Posted: July 21, 2011

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In investigating the transcriptional effect of the extract on NHDF, the researchers found that it decreased the expression of catalase antioxidant enzyme gene, whose role, in combination with other enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant systems, is to reduce reactive oxygen species and maintain the oxidative balance in cells. In addition, the extract upregulated catalase expression in normal cells (+130%).

The researchers concluded that the bud extract showed a potential benefit on skin aging. It noted that additional studies would be needed to determine the bioavailability of poplar bud extract's phenolic compounds, the biological properties of these compounds and their metabolites in vivo, and to demonstrate their protective and curative skin anti-aging effects.

Although the research focused on the anti-aging effects of the poplar bud extract in nutraceuticals, perhaps its anti-aging benefit can be utilized in future skin care formulations.

The authors acknowledged support from Conseil Regional d'Aquitaine and the Association Nationale de la Recherche Technique.