Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction Attenuates Blue Light-Induced Oxidative Stress and Melanogenesis in B16-F1 Melanocytes via Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Tyrosinase Properties

Our skin is constantly exposed to blue light (BL), which is abundant in sunlight and emitted by digital devices. Prolonged exposure to BL can lead to oxidative stress-induced damages and skin hyperpigmentation. For this study, we used a cell line-based model to examine the protective effects of tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) on BL-induced oxidative stress and hyperpigmentation in B16-F1 melanocytes. Alpha-tocopherol (alpha TP) was used as a comparator. Molecular assays such as cell viability assay, flow cytometry, western blotting, fluorescence imaging, melanin and tyrosinase analysis were performed. Our results showed that TRF effectively suppressed the formation of reactive oxygen species and preserved the mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, TRF exhibited anti-apoptotic properties by reducing the activation of the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase molecule and downregulating the expression of cleaved caspase-3. Moreover, TRF modulated tyrosinase activity, resulting in a lowered rate of melanogenesis and reduced melanin production. In contrast, alpha TP did not exhibit significant protective effects against skin damages and pigmentation in BL-induced B16-F1 cells. Therefore, this study indicates that TRF may offer superior protective effects over alpha TP against the effects of BL on melanocytes. These findings demonstrate the potential of TRF as a protective natural ingredient that acts against BL-induced skin damages and hyperpigmentation via its anti-oxidative and anti-melanogenic properties.

Automated summary

This study examined the protective effects of TRF on BL-induced oxidative stress and hyperpigmentation in melanocytes. TRF effectively suppressed reactive oxygen species formation, preserved mitochondrial membrane potential, and modulated tyrosinase activity, suggesting its potential as a natural ingredient against BL-induced skin damages and hyperpigmentation.