Biochemical studies on a novel antioxidant from lemon oil and its biotechnological, application in cosmetic dermatology

It is generally accepted that lipid peroxides play an important role in the pathogenesis of free radical-induced cellular injury and that antioxidants such as glutathione, ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol are vital in cellu lar defense against endogenous and exogenous oxidants. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a natural compound, derived f rom lemon oil extract, in controlling free radical-induced lipid peroxidati on and tissue damage in the skin. We provide evidence that a compound isola ted from lemon oil, which we have called Lem1, is endowed with a strong ant ioxidant activity and that it is capable of inhibiting free radical-mediate d reactions evaluated by both in vitro and in vivo biochemical systems. The present study aims to give a preclinical perspective on the biochemical pr operties of Lem1, a natural compound, as well as to provide a better unders tanding of the endogenous antioxidant potential of skin and the real validi ty of a natural antioxidant biotechnology in the antiaging management of th e skin.