A Novel Antioxidant Peptide Cath-Np Derived from Nanorana parkeri Attenuates UVB-Induced Skin Photodamage in Mice.
Liao Hang, Shen Xiaoxiao, Chai Jinwei, Wang Kai, Wu Jiena, Yang Jianxi, Chen Ming, Mo Guoxiang, Xu Xueqing
Abstract
The frog skin-derived antioxidant peptides have great potential for relieving injury caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, and have therefore attracted increasing attention. However, the research on these peptides is far from sufficient. This study characterized a new antioxidant peptide, Cath-Np (AGGKKECKDYYCRLLTKLGSRGHISGVDL), from the skin of Nanorana parkeri. Cath-Np possessed strong ABTS+ and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, potassium ferricyanide reducing, and DNA-protecting effects. Cath-Np was also able to reduce the abnormal elevation of reactive oxygen species and neutrophil migration in zebrafish. Notably, Cath-Np significantly reduced the oxidative damage, inhibited inflammatory factor production by suppressing the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase and p53 while activating the Nrf2 signaling pathways, and consequently exerted a protective effect against skin photodamage in UVB-irradiated mice. Hence, our results help to better understand the adaptation mechanism of N. parkeri to the extreme environmental conditions of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. Meanwhile, they also highlight the potential application of Cath-Np as a protective agent against damage caused by UVB radiation and offer a novel candidate molecule for developing anti-photodamage drugs and cosmetic products.
Key Findings
- Cath-Np is a novel antioxidant peptide derived from Nanorana parkeri skin with strong radical scavenging and DNA-protecting effects.
- Cath-Np reduces reactive oxygen species and neutrophil migration in zebrafish models.
- Cath-Np protects against UVB-induced skin photodamage in mice by activating Nrf2 signaling and suppressing inflammatory pathways.
Clinical Significance
Cath-Np shows potential as a protective agent against UVB-induced oxidative skin damage, offering a promising candidate for developing anti-photodamage therapies and cosmetic products.
Citation
Liao Hang, Shen Xiaoxiao, Chai Jinweiet al.. A Novel Antioxidant Peptide Cath-Np Derived from Nanorana parkeri Attenuates UVB-Induced Skin Photodamage in Mice. Integrative zoology. 2026-Apr-10.