Background: 1,2-Decanediol (S-Mal) is an organic compound belonging to the 1,2-alkanediol family, with two hydroxyl groups located on the first and second carbon of the alkane chain, probably responsible for the enhanced anti-bacterial efficacy. The willow bark total extract (W-Mal) has been used since thousands of years as an herbal remedy for its antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial activities. S-Mal is used in cosmetic preparations, whether W-Mal can be topically or systemically administered. Aim of our study was to evaluate in vitro the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of S-Mal and W-Mal, singularly or in combination, in LPS-stimulated keratinocytes.
Methods: The possible toxic effect of S-Mal and W-Mal was assessed through analysis of cell viability 24 hours after treatment. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were evaluated by measuring IL-8, TNF-α and IL-1β production as well as cellular antioxidants (GSH and NADPH) consumption, 24 and 48 hours, respectively, after LPS stimulation.
Results: Both substances resulted able to: 1) increase cell viability (P<0.05); 2) decrease the release of inflammatory mediators (IL-8, TNF-α and IL-1β) (P<0.05 - P<0.001); and 3) limit the depletion of cellular antioxidants (GSH and NADPH) (P<0.001).
Conclusions: S-Mal and W-Mal have shown a potential cytoprotective activity when used together, and good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects when used either singularly or in combination. In light of our results, S-Mal and W-Mal could represent effective and safe options in the management of bacterial-induced or aggravated skin conditions.