2. Academic Validation
  3. Schisandrin A alleviates UVB-induced photoaging via AMPK/Nrf2-mediated antioxidant and autophagy pathways

Schisandrin A alleviates UVB-induced photoaging via AMPK/Nrf2-mediated antioxidant and autophagy pathways

  • Photochem Photobiol Sci. 2026 Apr;25(4):613-628. doi: 10.1007/s43630-026-00869-1.
Shuangling Wang 1,  Kexin Liu 1,  Meihao Zhang 1,  Shiqi Wang 1,  Zhengyi Li 2 3,  Wenyue Zhuang 4 5
Affiliations

Affiliations

  • 1 Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, 132000, China.
  • 2 Department of Clinical Examination Basis, Laboratory Academy, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, 132000, China. [email protected].
  • 3 Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, 132000, China. [email protected].
  • 4 Department of Diagnostics, Hwamei College of Life and Health Sciences, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, 315100, China. [email protected].
  • 5 Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, 132000, China. [email protected].
PMID: 41801672 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-026-00869-1
Abstract

Skin photoaging, primarily induced by chronic UVB exposure, lacks effective therapeutic options. Schisandrin A (Sch A), a bioactive compound from Schisandra chinensis, has been traditionally used in East Asian medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the precise mechanisms by which Sch A exerts photoprotective effects against UVB-induced damage remain unclear, warranting further mechanistic exploration. This study aimed to explore the protective effects of Sch A against UVB-induced damage in HaCaT keratinocytes and ICR mice. Sch A improved cell viability, reduced senescence and Apoptosis, and enhanced antioxidant defenses by increasing SOD activity and GSH levels while reducing MDA accumulation in mice. Histological analysis showed that Sch A decreased epidermal thickness and preserved dermal Collagen. Molecular assays revealed that Sch A activated AMPK and Nrf2 signaling, promoted Autophagy, reduced oxidative stress, and inhibited MMP expression. These findings suggest that Sch A alleviates photoaging by modulating oxidative stress, Apoptosis, and Autophagy via the AMPK/Nrf2 pathways, offering a promising strategy for skin protection.

Keywords

AMPK; Autophagy; Nrf2; Photoaging; Sch A.

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