Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology
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Melanin plays a crucial role in protecting human skin against exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, its overproduction induces hyperpigmentation disorders of the skin. ⋯ These data indicate that the anti-melanogenic activity of phenylethyl resorcinol is mediated by activation of p44/42 MAPK, indicating that phenylethyl resorcinol may be a potential therapeutic agent for treating hyperpigmentation skin disorders.
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Kadsura heteroclita stem suppresses the onset and progression of adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune diseased state, characterized by hyperplasia of the synovial membrane, degradation of cartilage, and bone erosion of diarthrodial joints. Kadsura heteroclita (Roxb) Craib (Schizandraceae), a traditional Tujia ethnomedicine called Xue Tong in China, has been long used for the prevention and treatment of rheumatic and arthritic diseases, especially in the southern China. This study aimed to evaluate anti-arthritic effects of the ethanol extract of Kadsura heteroclita stems (KHS) on complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis (AIA) in rats, as well as to explore the underlying mechanisms of anti-arthritis. ⋯ KHS demonstrates potential anti-arthritic effects via inhibiting pivotal mediators of inflammation and cartilage destruction. This study strongly supports identification and isolation of active fractions of KHS which would be a potential candidate for further investigation as a new anti-arthritic botanical drug.