Preserving vulvar microbiota composition is of crucial importance to maintain healthy skin and preventing the onset of inflammatory disease. We have developed a new ingredient obtained from Bombax costatum flowers and enriched in polysaccharide fraction extract. We have investigated the activity of this new active on vulvar and vaginal microbiote both in vitro and in vivo in human volunteers. The active significantly increased keratinocyte production of innate immunity markers TLR2 (Toll-Like Receptor 2) and hBD2 (human beta-Defensin 2) evaluated by ELISA assay. In a co-culture of several bacterial strains, the extract tended to inhibit the growth of the pathogenic strain S. aureus, without significantly affecting the growth of commensal bacteria. This effect was even more significant as S. aureus was present in high proportions compared to other strains, suggesting a preventive effect toward S. aureus pathogenicity by limiting its overgrowth. The extract significantly inhibited S. aureus biofilm formation, evaluated using crystal violet dye, while it increased that of S. epidermidis. The extract inhibited S. aureus adhesion on reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) without affecting S. epidermis adhesion. Adhesion was evaluated by colony forming unit counting of adhering bacteria after topical pre-treatement by the extract. Finally, the extract protected the expression of filaggrin, desmoglein-1 and corneodesmosin, assessed by immunostaining in RHE that were incubated in presence of S. aureus secretum. We have demonstrated that a natural and plant polysaccharide-rich extract obtained from Bombax costatum is able to limit growth, adhesion and biofilm forming properties of a pathogenic strain (S. aureus), without affecting commensal bacteria. Moreover, it stimulates immune defenses and helps to preserve epidermal barrier from alteration due to S. aureus. These results show the beneficial properties of the extract to preserve skin microbiota homesostasis by promoting commensal against pathogenic bacterial strains.

ESDR410 - An active ingredient from Bombax costatum (kapok tree) to preserve skin microbiota equilibrium

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.