Combination of Vitamin E and Crocin Mitigates UV-Induced ROS and Apoptosis in Human Skin Fibroblasts

UV radiation, consisting of three main components A, B, and C, produces oxidative intermediates such as hydroxyl (OH) and oxygen radicals. Antioxidants can be effectively used to create resistance against oxidative stress, prevent or reduce skin wrinkles, and treat skin cancer. Antioxidants differ in terms of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and their ability to pass through the cell membrane. In order to investigate optimal function in terms of decreasing intracellular and extracellular ROS and reducing apoptosis in cells, two antioxidant compounds were selected based on their chemical structure. UV-C irradiated human dermal fibroblasts were treated using various concentrations of the compounds— Vitamin E, and Crocin—individually and simultaneously. Measurements were monitored using MTT assay, flow cytometry, microscopic imaging, and fluorescent-based techniques. Antioxidant combinations significantly reduced intracellular and extracellular ROS and apoptosis compared to single treatments. The findings can be used to design antioxidant-based strategies for skin protection and repair.