Punica granatum extract exerts dual anti-aging action by enhancing extracellular matrix integrity and inducing autophagy in human fibroblasts

Punica granatum has been extensively studied for its diverse biological activities, largely attributed to its rich content of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. Beyond its well-documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, recent findings highlight that pomegranate extract (CEPG) demonstrates a dual anti-aging mechanism in human fibroblasts by enhancing extracellular matrix (ECM) components and inducing autophagy. CEPG increased total collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis while reducing MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 secretion and collagenase activity. Mechanistically, CEPG upregulated LC3-II and reduced p-mTOR levels, indicating autophagy induction through mTOR pathway modulation. These results position CEPG as a promising dermocosmetic ingredient with dual ECM-protective and pro-autophagic activity.