Current Pharmaceutical Design - Volume 31, Issue 30, 2025

Skin ageing is influenced by intrinsic factors such as genetics and hormones, as well as extrinsic factors like environmental exposure, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and diet. These factors lead to biochemical, biological, and structural changes in the skin. Plant-derived compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have emerged as potential anti-ageing agents. This comprehensive review, spanning data from 1997 to 2024, explores the role of nutraceuticals in skin anti-ageing. The research data were drawn from Google, PubMed, PubMed Central, Scopus, and various journal databases, including ScienceDirect, Springer, and Taylor & Francis. This review specifically examines plant-derived polyphenols, carotenoids, and other bioactive compounds, analysing their mechanisms through signalling pathways and cellular processes, using data from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Polyphenols like quercetin, curcumin, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, UV-induced collagen degradation, and inflammatory cytokines. Notably, curcumin enhances collagen production and decreases the number of senescent cells. Carotenoids such as β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene protect against UV damage, and lycopene-rich tomato paste was specifically noted for its ability to reduce erythema and DNA damage. Additionally, compounds like resveratrol, fisetin, and wogonin exert protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation, with resveratrol improving collagen synthesis and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. These plant-derived compounds can effectively combat skin ageing through various mechanisms, including the inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix degradation. They present a natural and sustainable approach to skincare in accord with the growing trend of conscious consumption. Future research should focus on understanding the long-term effects and determining the optimal dosage for clinical applications, highlighting the potential of integrating plant-based nutraceuticals into skincare regimens.

SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, has resulted in a devastating global impact with millions of lives lost. Remdesivir and 2-DG are among the few drugs authorized for emergency use against COVID-19, but concerns about their efficacy and side effects persist. Vaccines have been developed and approved, yet the emergence of viral mutations has raised questions about their effectiveness against new variants. Natural compounds with antiviral properties have shown promise in combating SARS-CoV-2. The review highlights the potential of medicinal plant compounds, particularly in targeting the virus' main protease, a crucial component for viral replication. Natural, plant-derived compounds represent a promising avenue for COVID-19 therapeutics. Further clinical validation is necessary to ascertain their efficacy and safety in treating COVID-19. This underscores the importance of continued research into alternative treatments for combating this global health crisis. This review examines the potential of natural, plant-derived compounds as safe and cost-effective alternatives for combating COVID-19. It summarizes the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 and the ongoing drug studies and identifies natural compounds with known antiviral properties. Additionally, it explores the potential of medicinal plant compounds in targeting the SARS-CoV-2 main protease through in silico and molecular docking studies.

Psoralen, the simplest linear furanocoumarin, is derived from many medicinal plants, such as Psoralea corylifolia L., Glehnia littoralis Fr. Schmidt ex Miq., and Peucedanum decursivum (Miq.) Maxim. It has been used for treating osteoporosis and some skin disorders, including vitiligo, psoriasis, and atopic eczema. This review focuses on the pharmaceutical design of psoralen and the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of its derivatives. It also includes the biosynthetic pathways, metabolic characteristics, metabolites, and clinical uses of psoralen, as well as its toxicity/side effects and relevant mechanisms. Psoralen, as a promising drug lead compound, is structurally modified to develop numerous derivatives with remarkable biological activities. SARs discussed herein can guide the design and development of novel psoralen-based derivatives for use in pharmaceuticals and widen their therapeutic potencies.