Molecular docking and experimental evaluation of natural alkaloids from Chilean flora (Cryptocarya alba, Peumus boldus, and Laurelia sempervirens) for tyrosinase inhibition and depigmenting potential
Background: are sources of aporphine and benzylisoquinoline alkaloids, known for their antioxidant activity. Boldine derivatives, notably diacetylboldine (DAB, Lumiskin™), demonstrate commercial depigmenting efficacy, yet structure-activity relationship data are limited.. Purpose: mushroom enzyme assays, molecular docking, human melanocyte (HEMn-DP), and 3D epidermal (MelanoDerm™) models to elucidate depigmenting mechanisms. Material and Methods: < 0.05). Results and Discussion: < 0.05; ∼arbutin), BOL (-10%), and DAB/LTS inactivity, highlighting the superiority of C-3 halogenation. Conclusion: LTS is the premier natural inhibitor; optimization of 3BrBOL validates BOL derivatization for ARB equivalent depigmentation in 3D models. These findings support the development of hydroquinone-free cosmeceuticals from Chilean flora alkaloids and advocate the use of nanoemulsions to enhance delivery and reduce cytotoxicity.
Authors
- Gonzalo Fuentes‐Barros (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8583-4412)
- Marco Mellado (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9577-5180)
- Sebastián Castro‐Saavedra (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6638-4981)
- Javier Echeverría
Institutions
- Universidad de Santiago de Chile (CL)
- Peruvian University of Applied Sciences (PE)
- Murphy Oil Corporation (United States) (US)
- Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins (CL)
- Universidad Maya (MX)
- Universidad Central de Chile (CL)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Frontiers in Pharmacology
- Published
- 2026-04-14
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2026.1795496
- Primary Topic
- melanin and skin pigmentation
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00