Protective Effects of Diosgenin Against Ultraviolet B (UVB) Radiation-induced Inflammation in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Background and objective: Diosgenin is a steroidal sapogenin known for its pharmacological properties including anti-inflammatory effects.This study was aimed to evaluate the in vitro anti-photoaging and anti-inflammatory effects of diosgenin on ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation-induced damage on human dermal fibroblasts.Materials and Methods: The UVB-induced HDF cells were treated with diosgenin at concentrations 5 and 10 µM, respectively.Cytotoxicity induced by UVB radiation on pre-treated and post-treated HDF cells were tested.The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in HDF cells were determined using ELISA method.Western blot analysis was performed to determine the expressions of inflammatory mediators NF-k$ and MMPs.The concentrations of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined in the cell homogenates.Results: Diosgenin significantly (p<0.01)reduced the cytotoxicity induced by UVB on HDF cells.Pro-inflammatory cytokines and expressions of inflammatory mediators were significantly reversed (p<0.01) by diosgenin in a concentration dependent manner.Diosgenin was able to increase the level of GSH and prevent MDA formations. Conclusion:The results proved that diosgenin has protective effects on HDF cells against UVB-induced inflammation.Therefore, this active compound can be recommended for pharmaceutical formulations against UV induced skin inflammation.