POTENCIAL DESPIGMENTANTE DO ÁCIDO ELÁGICO: UMA REVISÃO DA LITERATURA

• DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.20423141110

• Palavras-chave: Taninos. Melasma. Expressão Gênica. Despigmentante.

• Keywords: Tannins. Melasma. Gene Expression. Depigmenting.

• Abstract: Ellagic acid is a polyphenol found in various natural sources, including fruits, nuts, and plants. This compound has garnered increasing attention due to its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Ellagic acid (EA) has been the subject of study in various biomedical research areas, with a particular focus on its influence on melanogenesis and protection against damage caused by ultraviolet radiation (UV). The objective of this review was to compile and analyze existing literature related to ellagic acid, highlighting its role in regulating melanogenesis, including the inhibition of tyrosinase activity, a key enzyme in melanin production, among other mechanisms of action. The methodology involved a comprehensive analysis of scientific literature available in databases such as Science Direct and PubMed. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies investigating the effects of ellagic acid on hyperpigmentation were included. This literature review identified a series of studies indicating that ellagic acid possesses tyrosinase-inhibitory properties, suggesting its potential use as a skin-lightening agent. Additionally, several studies demonstrated that ellagic acid can induce autophagy in cells, which may be associated with melanogenesis regulation. It was also observed that ellagic acid plays a role in protecting against UV-induced damage by reducing the production of free radicals and promoting the expression of antioxidant genes. Ellagic acid emerged as a multifunctional compound with potential benefits for skin health, including its ability to inhibit melanogenesis, induce autophagy, and protect against the harmful effects of UV radiation. These findings suggest that ellagic acid may be a valuable option in the formulation of cosmetic products and in the prevention of skin diseases related to sun exposure.