Weizmannia coagulans Extracellular Proteins Reduce Skin Acne by Inhibiting Pathogenic Bacteria and Regulating TLR2/TRAF6- Mediated NF-κB and MAPKs Signaling Pathways

Abstract

As a probiotic, Weizmannia coagulans (W. coagulans) is often used in food and medicine to regulate intestinal flora and resist specific inflammation. In this study, the anti-acne efficacy and mechanism of YTCY extracellular proteins (YTCY-EPs) from a strain of W. coagulans are analyzed. The main components of YTCY-EPs, extracted and separated from the fermentation broth, are peptides ranging from 1.51–11.44 kDa, accounting for about 80%. Among the peptides identified by LC/MS-MS, YTCY A-F possess the properties of antimicrobial peptides, while YTCY 1–4 possess antioxidative properties. These peptides have a strong effect on Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) and significantly inhibit Staphylococcus aureus. The adhesion of YTCY-EPs has a 50% inhibition rate. It is found that YTCY-EPs possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and can reduce the downstream TLR2/NF-κB and MAPKs/AP-1 pathways by regulating the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and AP-1 in vitro. The transcriptional expression of inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory chemokines, and matrix metalloproteinase genes is also regulated, thereby slowing the recruitment of inflammatory cells and the development of inflammation, and increasing keratinocyte mobility. YTCY-EPs can also effectively solve such problems as erythema, papules, cysts, skin lesions, hyperkeratinization, and desquamation caused by C. acnes in rabbit ears. Additionally, the treatment effectively improves the condition of wounds and inflammation. The results of this study prove that YTCY-EPs can be used as a potential anti-acne raw material in cosmetics.