Does the parthenolide free Feverfew extract exhibit the similar effect as parthenolide containing extract?

Matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) from the collagenases group, break down collagen and elastin, leading to degenerative changes of the extracellular matrix, accelerating the formation of wrinkles and saggings and causing the skin to age (1). Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Schulz Bip. (Asteracae)) extracts have skin soothing properties and are not suitable for topical applications because of the allergic effect of the parthenolide (a sesquiterpene lactone) (2, 3).

The main purpose of this study was to determine the effect of parthenolide on the skin aging retardant effect. MMP-8 inhibitory effect was tested on parthenolide containing and removed extracts from Tanacetum parthenium. At the same time, we have also determined the MMP-8 inhibitory effect of parthenolide.

MMP-8 inhibitory effect was measured in 25 µg/mL, 50 µg/mL, 100 µg/mL, 250 µg/mL and 500 µg/mL concentrations at 412nm. All samples showed the best efficacy at 500 µg/mL concentration. Inhibition values were for parthenolide containing and depleted Tanacetum parthenium extracts and parthenolide, 72.28%, 74.55% and 81.80% respectively. Positive control NNGH inhibited MMP-8 93.88% in 1.3µM concentration. As a result, although parthenolide alone has a high MMP-8 inhibition rate, parthenolite-free extracts inhibit MMP-8 as much as parthenolide-containing extracts. This suggests that the effect is due to the synergism of the other substances carried by the plant.

[1] Fisher GJ, Kang S, Varani J, Bata-Csorgo Z, Wan Y, Datta S Arch Dermatol 2002; 138: 1462 – 1470.

[2] Sur R, Martin K, Liebel F, Lyte P, Shapiro S, Southall M. Inflammopharmacology 2009; 17:42 – 49.

[3] Hausen BM, Osmundsen PE. Acta Derm Venereol 1983; 63: 308 – 314