Antioxidant and anti-aging activities of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge callus extracts in H2O2-induced premature senescence and chronological aging models of human dermal fibroblasts

Dermal fibroblasts are pivotal in maintaining skin integrity through extracellular matrix (ECM) production, a process compromised during aging due to oxidative stress from excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS). Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen, DS), a medicinal plant rich in bioactive compound-rich dried roots, has demonstrated broad therapeutic potential. This study investigates the anti-aging properties of Danshen callus (DSC)—an undifferentiated cell mass derived from leaf tissue culture, as a sustainable and controlled source of bioactive compounds. Using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced premature aging and chronological aging models in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), we evaluated DSC effects on redox homeostasis and senescence. Pretreatment and posttreatment with DSC significantly enhanced HDF viability, restored ECM synthesis, suppressed MMP-1 secretion, and reduced senescence-associated markers in H2O2-induced premature aging HDFs. Mechanistically, DSC activated the Nrf2/ARE pathway, mitigating ROS accumulation and reinforcing antioxidant defenses. Crucially, comparative analysis revealed DSC superior efficacy over native Danshen (DS) in both aging paradigms. These findings highlight DSC potential as a novel, plant-based therapeutic agent for anti-aging cosmetic formulations, leveraging agricultural waste for sustainable skincare solutions.