EVALUATION OF COLORLESS CAROTENOIDS FROM WHITE HEIRLOOM TOMATO FOR REGENERATION OF SKIN CELLS VIA REDUCTION OF INFLAMMATION AND STRESS

The article delves into the emerging concept of photoprotection through dietary interventions, emphasizing the pivotal role of plant constituents, specifically carotenoids and flavonoids, in shielding plants from excessive light and preventing UV damage in humans. Tomatoes, globally consumed and known for their flavonoid content, are undergoing efforts to standardize and enhance flavonoid concentrations. Carotenoids, essential for nutrition and health, act as precursors for retinoids, providing health and cosmetic benefits when accumulated in human skin. Colorless carotenoids, particularly phytoene and phytofluene, have gained attention for their bioavailability and potential health benefits. The study introduces heirloom white tomatoes, enriched in phytoene and phytofluene, as a unique source to explore increased glutathione levels, potentially enhancing antioxidant properties and skincare benefits. The research further investigates the potential of colorless carotenoids derived from white heirloom tomatoes in promoting skin cell regeneration by mitigating inflammation and stress. Methodology involves the preparation of tomato fruit powder, culturing cell lines, and conducting various assays to evaluate cell viability, antioxidant capacity, and skincare benefits. Results demonstrate the cytotoxicity of heirloom tomato powder, its impact on LDH activity, angiogenic potential, reduced MMP-12 and inflammation, decreased MDA, and increased glutathione reductase levels in post-treated cells. The study concludes that heirloom tomato powder enriched in phytoene and phytofluene could be a potent agent for enhancing glutathione reductase production, ultimately contributing to improved skin tone and long-term skincare benefits.