Bioactivity of Silene baccifera Extract and its Potential as a Functional Cosmetic Ingredient

Purpose: Natural antioxidants that activate the NRF2 signaling pathway are garnering increasing interest. This study evaluated the physiological effects of Silene baccifera ethanol extract (SB-EE), focusing on its ability to suppress reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, regulate NRF2-related pathways, and serve as an active ingredient in functional cosmetics. Methods: Silene baccifera was extracted using 70% ethanol and freeze-dried. ROS production in HaCaT cells was assessed following H2DCFDA staining using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Expression of antioxidant and skin aging–related genes (NRF2, HO-1, SOD1, NQO1, MMP1, MMP9, and Col1a1) was determined using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). NRF2 and MMP protein expression was assessed via western blotting. Results: SB-EE inhibited H2O2-induced ROS generation in HaCaT cells under oxidative stress. RT-PCR results revealed significantly increased mRNA expression of the antioxidant genes, NRF2 , HO-1, SOD1, and NQO1, reduced expression of MMP1 and MMP9, and elevated expression of Col1a1. Matching expression patterns were confirmed at the protein level via western blotting. Conclusions: Silene baccifera extract enhances cellular antioxidant defense by activating NRF2 signaling and modulating skin aging–related factors. Therefore, it shows promise as a multifunctional ingredient for antiaging and antioxidant cosmetic formulations.