Ferulic acid derived from ginseng leaf extract modulates psoriasis-related responses via the NF-κB pathway by regulating antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and cytokines/chemokines in a psoriasis-like HaCaT cell model

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease caused by dysregulation of the immune system in the skin.In psoriatic lesions, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are abnormally overexpressed along with inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.Ferulic acid, a major polyphenolic compound found in ginseng leaves, is known for its beneficial effects on the skin, including antioxidant, whitening, and anti-inflammatory activities.However, its effects on psoriasis have not been extensively studied.In this study, we investigated the potential of ginseng leaf extract (GLE) and ferulic acid in modulating psoriasis-related responses using a HaCaT cell model.First, GLE exhibited no cytotoxicity up to 200 g/mL as determined by the CCK-8 assay, and demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing iNOS and COX-2 mRNA expression and inhibiting nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cells.Next, RT-PCR analysis revealed that ferulic acid significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of AMPs such as -defensin 2 and members of the S100 protein family, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines including IL-1, IL-6, CXCL8, and CCL20 in HaCaT cells.Finally, ferulic acid markedly inhibited the phosphorylation of IB in the NF-B signaling pathway and suppressed the activation of STAT3, both of which are key regulators of CCL20 related inflammation in psoriasis.In conclusion, ferulic acid derived from GLE shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory skin disorders such as psoriasis.With further in-vivo research, it may be developed into a psoriasis treatment or a skinsoothing bio-ingredient in future.