Plumbagin and Resveratrol through Their Anti-Inflammatory and Multi-Target Modulatory Potential Ameliorate UV-Induced Psoriasis-Like Conditions in Rat

Introduction: Psoriasis is an autoimmune, progressive, and chronic inflammatory condition predominantly caused due to various inflammatory and immunological mediators. Phytochemicals, such as plumbagin (PL) and resveratrol (RSV), have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Methods: The induction of psoriasis-like conditions in rats was standardized by exposing them to ultraviolet (UV) radiation for 30 minutes on their dorsal skin surfaces. The psoriasis area severity index (PASI) scoring was utilized for confirming the psoriasis induction. Biochemical measurement of the hydroxyproline (HP) content was performed to measure collagen rupture, accompanied by histological evaluation of the exposed area. The Swiss Dock web server was used for the in silico docking of mammalian targets of rapamycin (mTOR), fibro-collagenase, and nuclear factor kappa B proteins. Results: A 30-minute UV exposure was standardized and created as a model for inducing psoriasis-like conditions. Administration of PL and RSV alone or in combination restored the increased PASI score within a week and hastened recovery. These medications also limited the increase in the HP content and altered the morphology. The combination of PL with RSV is more effective than either medicine alone. In silico docking, the analysis demonstrated that PL and RSV had a good binding relationship with mTOR, NF-κB, and fibro-collagenase. Conclusion: UV exposure for 30 minutes causes a psoriasis-like state, whereas PL and RSV prevent the production and progression of psoriasis-like conditions via their multi-target modulatory mechanisms. Target-specific investigations require molecular-level research.