Cordycepin inhibits UVB-induced matrix metalloproteinase expression by suppressing the NF-kappaB pathway in human dermal fibroblasts.

Cordycepin (3-deoxyadenosine) has been shown to exhibit many pharmacological activities, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infection activities. However, the anti-skin photoaging effects of cordycepin have not yet been reported. In the present study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of cordycepin on matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and -3 expressions of the human dermal fibroblast cells. Western blot analysis and real-time PCR revealed cordycepin inhibited UVB-induced MMP-1 and -3 expressions in a dose-dependent manner. UVB strongly activated NF-kappaB activity, which was determined by IkappaBalpha degradation, nuclear localization of p50 and p65 subunit, and NF-kappaB binding activity. However, UVB-induced NF-kappaB activation and MMP expression were completely blocked by cordycepin pretreatment. These findings suggest that cordycepin could prevent UVB-induced MMPs expressions through inhibition of NF-kappaB activation. In conclusion, cordycepin might be used as a potential agent for the prevention and treatment of skin photoaging.