Curcuma xanthorrhiza Extract Modulates CASP3 and TIMP1 Expression and Regulates  8-OHdG, Collagen, and Protein Levels in UV-Induced BJ Cells

Wahyu  Widowati; Meilinah  Hidayat; Rita  Tjokropranoto; Dwi Nur  Triharsiwi; Hanna Sari Widya  Kusuma

doi:10.18502/ajmb.v18i1.21045

Wahyu Widowati Faculty of Medicine, Maranatha Christian University, Bandung, Indonesia
Meilinah Hidayat Faculty of Medicine, Maranatha Christian University, Bandung, Indonesia
Rita Tjokropranoto Faculty of Medicine, Maranatha Christian University, Bandung, Indonesia
Dwi Nur Triharsiwi Biomolecular and Biomedical Research Center, Aretha Medika Utama, Bandung, Indonesia
Hanna Sari Widya Kusuma Biomolecular and Biomedical Research Center, Aretha Medika Utama, Bandung, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ajmb.v18i1.21045

Keywords: 8-OHdG, CASP3, Collagen, Curcuma, TIMP1

Abstract

Background: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation poses a significant health risk, particularly in high-exposure regions including Indonesia, contributing to more than 1.5 million UV-related Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) globally due to its involvement in photoaging, skin cancers, and chronic inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract (CXE) mitigating effects against UV-induced damage in human dermal fibroblasts (BJ cells) by assessing gene expression, protein integrity, DNA damage, and collagen levels.

Methods: BJ fibroblasts were irradiated to UV radiation and given CXE at 3.13–12.5 µg/ml concentrations. TIMP1 and CASP3 gene expression were analyzed via qRT-PCR, while total protein, 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and collagen content were measured using ELISA.

Results: CXE treatment significantly upregulated TIMP1 and downregulated CASP3 expression in a concentration-dependent manner, with the strongest effects showed at 12.5 µg/ml (p<0.05). At the same concentration, CXE significantly restored total protein levels, reduced 8-OHdG accumulation, and preserved collagen content compared with the UV-induced control (p<0.05).

Conclusion: These findings suggest CXE exerts reparative effects against UV-induced photoaging through antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and Extracellular Matrix (ECM) preserving mechanisms, supporting its potential as a botanical anti-aging therapy.