Rosae multiflorae fructus extracts regulate the differentiation and vascular endothelial cell-mediated proliferation of keratinocytes

Keratinocytes are the primary component of the epidermis, so maintaining the precise balance between proliferation and differentiation is essential for conserving epidermal structure and function. Rosae multiflorae fructus extract (RMFE) has wide application in the cosmetic industry, but the molecular mechanisms underlying beneficial effects on keratinocytes are still not fully understood. In this study, we found that RMFE promoted epidermal differentiation and enhanced the barrier function of normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) and three-dimensional epidermis model in culture. In addition, RMFE promoted human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and angiogenesis, whereas the conditioned medium from RMFE-treated HUVECs further promoted NHEK proliferation and increased wound healing ability. Analysis of constituent bioactivities identified a quercetin derivative as a potential mediator of NHEK and HUVEC responses to RMFE. Taken together, these results suggest that RMFE enhances epidermal functions through both direct effects on keratinocytes and indirect effects mediated by endothelial cells.