Enhanced Antioxidant and Protective Effects of Fermented Solanum melongena L. Peel Extracts Against Ultraviolet B-Induced Skin Damage

<b>Background/Objectives</b>: The skin, being the body's outermost organ, plays a vital role in protecting against various external stimuli. Ultraviolet generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), promoting the secretion of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and inducing collagen degradation. Many studies have been conducted to identify natural substances that can prevent or delay the harmful effects of UV. <b>Methods</b>: A wound healing assay, DCF-DA reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, and JC-1 assay were performed to assess the effects of bio-converted eggplant peels (BEPs) on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Western blot analysis was also conducted to understand the underlying mechanisms for their effects. Finally, hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry were also performed in animal studies. <b>Results</b>: Our study evaluated the antioxidant efficacy of BEPs fermented with <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> in hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-HDFs and UVB-induced skin damage in hairless mice. We demonstrated that BEPs exhibited enhanced antioxidant properties compared to non-fermented eggplant peels (EPs). BEPs facilitated wound healing in H₂O₂-damaged HDFs, reduced ROS levels, and restored mitochondrial membrane potential. BEPs suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK, p38, and JNK as their underlying mechanism. We further demonstrated that dietary supplementation of BEPs also downregulated matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1) expression and upregulated collagen I (COL1) in UVB-damaged hairless mice, indicating that BEPs were more effective compared to EPs. <b>Conclusions</b>: Our studies suggest that BEPs fermented with <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> hold significant potential as a protective agent for mitigating UVB-induced damage and promoting skin health.