%0 Journal Article %T The Effect of Gynostemma pentaphyllum Extract on Mouse Dermal Fibroblasts %A Sara Nadia Lobo %A Yu Qing Qi %A Quan Zhong Liu %J ISRN Dermatology %D 2014 %R 10.1155/2014/202876 %X Background. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the effect of Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract on mouse dermal fibroblasts. Recent studies have shown that this plant may possess great antioxidant properties, which can be very beneficial in combating oxidative stress. Methods. Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract was prepared and mouse dermal fibroblasts were obtained and cultured as per our laboratory protocols. Twelve samples of cells were cultured under the same conditions and both negative and positive controls were established. Induction of oxidative stress was carried out using ultraviolet C (UVC) light. Viable cell count was carried out, using microscopy. The analysis of the overall results was processed using SPSS version 16.0. Results. Statistical analysis showed strong positive correlation between the concentration of Gynostemma pentaphyllum and the mean duration of cell viability (rs£¿=£¿1), with a high level of statistical significance ( ). Likewise, strong positive correlation existed between trials of cell viability (rs£¿=£¿0.988¨C1), with statistical significance ( ). Conclusion. Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract prolongs viability of mouse dermal fibroblasts damaged by UVC light-induced oxidative stress. The results show the potential benefits of this extract on dermal cell aging. 1. Introduction The retardation and control of skin aging constitute one of the biggest challenges faced by researchers and scientists in the area of cosmetology. This area of study is continuously researched, due to the unending pursuit of maintenance of youthfulness and appearance. Many scientific investigations are currently underway, as the field of cosmeceutical development widens. New studies are revealing the truth about many agents that modify the process of skin aging. The future incorporation of these studies into clinical practice would change the way that this process is currently managed. Many plant extracts play a vital role in the modification of skin aging. Some of these have been thoroughly investigated, whereas others have only been used empirically for centuries. Gynostemma pentaphyllum, commonly referred to as ¡°Jiaogulan¡± in China, is one of the many examples of these plants [1, 2]. This plant is normally grown in the mountainous regions of China and is considered a vine because of its growth pattern. It has been used for centuries as a traditional remedy for respiratory and toxic conditions and has also been associated with longevity, among other benefits [1, 2]. Many studies have been done to verify some of the many beliefs associated with the %U http://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn.dermatology/2014/202876/