Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Topical Formulations Containing Plant Extracts, Methylsulfonylmethane, and Peptiskin(®) in In Vitro Models of Arthritis.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of AS632 and AS633, two topical formulations composed of natural plant-derived ingredients, for potential use in arthritis therapy. Methods: AS632 and AS633 were formulated with natural plant extracts-including Punica granatum seed oil, Gaultheria procumbens essential oil, Centella asiatica extract, and Camellia sinensis extract-and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). AS632 additionally contained a peptide-based component, Peptiskin(®). Both formulations were tested in THP-1-derived macrophages, HaCaT keratinocytes, and C28/I2 chondrocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or pro-inflammatory cytokines. Results: Both formulations significantly reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-13) expression, and ROS level, with AS632 showing greater suppression of TNF-α in macrophages compared to AS633. In addition, both formulations demonstrated cytoprotective effects against cytokine-induced damage in chondrocytes. Conclusions: AS632 and AS633 are promising topical candidates for managing arthritis and chronic inflammatory skin or joint disorders.