Anti–melanogenic properties of FBCC–EP850 derived from Carex pumila Thunb

Objective: To elucidate the anti-melanogenic potential of Carex pumila Thunb. extract (FBCC-EP850). Methods: A collection of 180 plant extracts was tested for inhibition of mushroom tyrosinase activity using an in vitro assay. Among them, FBCC-EP850 exhibited the most promising inhibitory activity. Further analysis was conducted to investigate its mechanisms and therapeutic potential in reducing melanogenesis in B16F10 melanoma cells and zebrafish larvae. Results: FBCC-EP850 inhibited mushroom tyrosinase activity in a dose-dependent manner, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 45.83 μg/mL. FBCC-EP850 at concentrations up to 50 pg/mL demonstrated minimal cytotoxicity against B16F10 melanoma cells and no adverse effects on zebrafish larvae. Treatment with 50 μg/mL of FBCC-EP850 significantly reduced α-melanocyte stimulating hormone-induced melanin production and suppressed cellular tyrosinase activity in B16F10 melanoma cells. Additionally, FBCC-EP850 at 25 and 50 μg/mL effectively diminished hyperpigmentation in α-melanocyte stimulating hormone-stimulated zebrafish larvae. Its anti-melanogenic action could be attributed to modulation of the cAMP-CREB-MITF signaling pathway. Conclusions: Carex pumila extract can inhibit melanogenesis by modulating the cAMP-CREB-MITF signaling pathway, which can be used as a promising candidate for treating hyperpigmentation disorders.