Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Topical Formulations Containing Plant Extracts, Methylsulfonylmethane, and Peptiskin® in In Vitro Models of Arthritis

<b>Background</b>: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of AS632 and AS633, two topical formulations composed of natural plant-derived ingredients, for potential use in arthritis therapy. <b>Methods</b>: AS632 and AS633 were formulated with natural plant extracts-including <i>Punica granatum</i> seed oil, <i>Gaultheria procumbens</i> essential oil, <i>Centella asiatica</i> extract, and <i>Camellia sinensis</i> extract-and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). AS632 additionally contained a peptide-based component, Peptiskin^®. Both formulations were tested in THP-1-derived macrophages, HaCaT keratinocytes, and C28/I2 chondrocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or pro-inflammatory cytokines. <b>Results</b>: Both formulations significantly reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-13) expression, and ROS level, with AS632 showing greater suppression of TNF-α in macrophages compared to AS633. In addition, both formulations demonstrated cytoprotective effects against cytokine-induced damage in chondrocytes. <b>Conclusions</b>: AS632 and AS633 are promising topical candidates for managing arthritis and chronic inflammatory skin or joint disorders.