Effect of Ajwa date extract cream (Phoenix Dactylivera L) on TGF-beta and IL-6 expression in rats exposed to UV-B

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays can trigger acute inflammatory reactions and damage to skin structures, including shortening and thickening of collagen fibers, damage to elastic fibers, and changes in the proportion of collagen in the dermis. This study aims to evaluate the effect of Ajwa date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) extract cream on the expression of TGF-beta and IL-6 cytokines in Wistar rats exposed to UVB rays. This study is an in vivo experimental study with a post-test only control group design using 30 male rats randomly divided into five treatment groups: healthy control group (K1), UVB group without intervention (K2), UVB + base cream group (K3), UVB + 4% Ajwa date cream group (K4), and UVB + 8% Ajwa date cream group (K5). The cream was applied topically for 7 days and IL-6 and TGF-beta levels were measured on the 8th day using the ELISA method. The results of one-way ANOVA showed no statistically significant differences in TGF-beta (p = 0.150) and IL-6 (p = 0.902) levels between groups. However, there was an increase in the number of fibroblasts in the 8% cream group (K5) which was biologically relevant, indicating a possible regenerative effect in the proliferative phase. This study is a preliminary study that provides an important basis for further exploration of the topical therapeutic potential of Ajwa date extract. Further studies with improved formulations, longer treatment durations, and pre–post designs are recommended to understand the biological efficacy more comprehensively.