Optimization of Ultrasonic Flavonoid Extraction from <i>Saussurea involucrate,</i> and the Ability of Flavonoids to Block Melanin Deposition in Human Melanocytes

• Main Authors: Chun-Yan Dai, Pei-Ran Liao, Ming-Zhuo Zhao, Chao Gong, Yue Dang, Yuan Qu, Li-Sha Qiu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-01-01
• Series: Molecules
• Subjects: <i>saussurea involucrate</i>; ultrasonic extraction process; response surface; antioxidant; human melanoma a375 cells
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/25/2/313

(1) Background: Flavonoids are the primary medicinal ingredient of <i>Saussurea involucrate</i>, which have significant antioxidant capacity. Optimizing the extraction of <i>Saussurea involucrate</i> flavonoids (SIFs) and exploring the ability to block melanin deposition caused by reactive oxygen can greatly promote the development of <i>S. involucrate</i> whitening products. (2) Methods: Ultrasonic extraction process was optimized using the Box&#8722;Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Then, the effect of SIFs on antioxidant activity and anti-deposition of melanin, and genes related to the melanin synthesis are studied. (3) Results: The optimal extraction procedures are as follows: the extraction time, ethanol content, and solvent ratio (<i>v</i>/<i>w</i>) are 64 min, 54%, and 54:1, respectively. The reducing activity and scavenging rates of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, and ABTS⁺ were promoted as more <i>S. involucrate</i> flavonoid extract was added. The SIFs extract induced a decrease in the melanin synthesis by inhibiting the human melanoma A375 cell tyrosinase activity. SIFs also depress expression of melanin synthesis related genes. (4) Conclusions: the highest SIFs content was obtained by using 54% ethanol and 54:1 solvent ratio (<i>v</i>/<i>w</i>) for 64 min. The extract of SIFs exhibited good ability of antioxidant and anti-deposition of melanin in human melanocytes.