Curcuma xanthorrhiza Extract Modulates CASP3 and TIMP1 Expression and Regulates 8-OHdG, Collagen, and Protein Levels in UV-Induced BJ Cells

Background: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation poses a significant health risk, particularly in high-exposure regions including Indonesia, contributing to more than 1.5 million UV-related Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) globally due to its involvement in photoaging, skin cancers, and chronic inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract (CXE) mitigating effects against UV-induced damage in human dermal fibroblasts (BJ cells) by assessing gene expression, protein integrity, DNA damage, and collagen levels.   Methods: BJ fibroblasts were irradiated to UV radiation and given CXE at 3.13–12.5 µg/ml concentrations. TIMP1 and CASP3 gene expression were analyzed via qRT-PCR, while total protein, 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and collagen content were measured using ELISA. Results: CXE treatment significantly upregulated TIMP1 and downregulated CASP3 expression in a concentration-dependent manner, with the strongest effects showed at 12.5 µg/ml (p<0.05). At the same concentration, CXE significantly restored total protein levels, reduced 8-OHdG accumulation, and preserved collagen content compared with the UV-induced control (p<0.05). Conclusion: These findings suggest CXE exerts reparative effects against UV-induced photoaging through antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and Extracellular Matrix (ECM) preserving mechanisms, supporting its potential as a botanical anti-aging therapy.