Hair cosmetic composition containing enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract and method for producing the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hair cosmetic composition containing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract and a method for producing the same. More specifically, it relates to a hair cosmetic composition containing an extract of Sophora flavescens in which the content of trifolirhizin, an active ingredient in Sophora flavescens, has been increased by enzymatic treatment, as an active ingredient, i.e., a hair cosmetic composition having the efficacy of strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, and alleviating hair loss. When using the hair cosmetic composition containing the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention as an active ingredient, it not only stimulates hair growth factors to strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth, but also inhibits hair loss inducing factors that shorten the hair follicle growth phase and promote the transition to the hair regression phase, and shortens the resting phase of hair in an inflammatory environment through anti-inflammatory activity, thus providing an excellent effect in alleviating hair loss.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This patent application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0095466, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on July 21, 2023, and the disclosure of the patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a hair cosmetic composition containing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract and a method for producing the same. Specifically, the present invention produces a Sophora flavescens extract with an increased content of trifolirhizin, an active ingredient in Sophora flavescens, by enzyme treatment, and relates to a hair cosmetic composition containing the same as an active ingredient, that is, a hair cosmetic composition having the effects of strengthening hair roots, promoting hair growth, and alleviating hair loss.

Background Art

[0003] Human hair plays a role in protecting the skin and scalp. In particular, scalp hair accounts for about 20% of the body's hair and is recognized as a very important factor because it has a unique role in social and sexual communication. However, due to the recent development of industrialization, the frequency of exposure to various environments has increased, and the number of people suffering from hair loss and scalp problems is increasing.

[0004] In the past, most hair loss phenomena mainly occurred frequently in middle-aged and elderly people over 50 years old. However, in recent years, due to excessive use of shampoos and mousses, damage to hair and scalp caused by perms, hair dyes, and hair dryers, increased environmental stress, and nutritional imbalances due to increased intake of processed foods, hair loss has occurred significantly even in young people aged 20-30. The trend is that not only male pattern hair loss but also female pattern hair loss is increasing. In particular, according to the National Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of people visiting hospitals due to hair loss increased from about 200,000 in 2014 to about 220,000 in 2018, and the Korean Hair Loss Treatment Society estimates the potential hair loss population in Korea to be 10 million.

[0005] Hair life consists of a four-stage cycle: the growth phase, the regression phase, the resting phase, and the exogenous phase. Hair is maintained by repeating this four-stage hair cycle. The hair cycle is determined by the activity cycle of the dermal papilla (DP), with the growth phase lasting 5-6 years, the regression phase 2-3 weeks, and the resting phase approximately 2-3 months. At the final stage of the resting phase, the nascent phase begins, in which new hair is naturally generated, and hair is maintained. Therefore, hair loss is considered a natural phenomenon for the generation of new hair. However, alopecia, recognized as a hair loss disease, refers to a condition in which the activity of the dermal papilla stops, resulting in a relative increase in the proportion of hair in the resting phase or a failure of hair to regenerate.

[0006] To date, research has been conducted on the causes and mechanisms of alopecia, but the cause of hair loss has not yet been clearly elucidated. Major factors that affect hair growth include inhibition of proliferation or dysfunction of dermal papilla, which is involved in regulating the hair cycle; abnormalities in the hair cycle due to the action of male hormones; abnormal changes in the hair cycle due to reduced blood flow to the scalp; antihypertensive drugs; mental stress; physical stimuli; and environmental pollution.

[0007] Consequently, the development of hair loss treatments is progressing worldwide, and various methods are being employed to treat hair loss, including topical agents, oral medications, health supplements, gene transplantation surgery, hair transplantation surgery, and alternative medicine. However, it is known that currently, no treatment or substance has shown satisfactory results.

[0008] In particular, looking at the market worldwide, there are thousands of products related to hair growth, but very few products are actually recognized by the Hair Society. Currently, only minoxidil and Propecia are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as drugs that promote hair growth. In the early stages of hair loss, it is known that using topical minoxidil or oral Propecia (finasteride) can slow the progression of hair loss to some extent, but it is difficult to restore hair to normal in cases of already advanced hair loss. Side effects such as unwanted hair growth, erectile dysfunction, decreased libido and other sexual dysfunctions, dizziness, headaches, edema, and skin rashes may occur, and furthermore, there is a problem that they cannot be prescribed to women because there is a risk of birth defects when taking them.

[0009] Furthermore, since hair loss prevention and hair growth products are applied directly to the scalp or taken orally, there is a need to explore natural ingredients that do not contain chemical components, extract beneficial active ingredients for scalp health, and develop products that contain these ingredients. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] The inventors diligently conducted research to develop a hair cosmetic composition containing a substance extracted from a natural product free of chemical components as an active ingredient. As a result, they produced an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract in which the content of trifolirhizin, the active ingredient in Sophora flavescens, was increased by enzymatic treatment. By investigating the efficacy of this enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract in strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, and alleviating hair loss, they completed the present invention.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a hair cosmetic composition for strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, or alleviating hair loss, which contains the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract as an active ingredient.

[0013] Other objectives and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the detailed description of the invention below, the claims, and the drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] The inventors diligently conducted research to develop a hair cosmetic composition containing a substance extracted from a natural product free of chemical components as an active ingredient. As a result, they produced an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract in which the content of trifolirhizin, the active ingredient in Sophora flavescens, was increased by enzymatic treatment, and investigated the efficacy of this enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract in strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, and alleviating hair loss.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, comprising the following steps.

[0016] (a) The step of obtaining a Sophora flavescens extract from dried Sophora flavescens,

[0017] (b) A step of producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract by performing an enzymatic hydrolysis reaction on the Sophora flavescens extract obtained in step (a).

[0018] In this specification, the term "Sophora flavescens" refers to a perennial plant of the legume family in the Rosales order that grows wild in Asia such as Korea, Japan, and China. In traditional Chinese medicine, it means the root that has been almost completely stripped of its bark and dried. Sophora flavescens also has a Korean plant name of "thief's stick" based on the appearance of its root, but the name "Sophora flavescens" uses the character "bitter" because the taste of the root of this plant is bitter, and uses the character "ginseng" because it has effects similar to those of Korean ginseng. As the main components of Sophora flavescens, quinolizidine, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, etc. are known. As pharmacological effects, it has effects on antiarrhythmic effects, antitumor effects, diuresis, antipyretic effects, etc., and is also known to have antibacterial and antifungal effects on skin resident bacteria, and effects on neurodermatitis, eczema, etc.

[0019] In this specification, the term "extract" means a liquid component obtained by immersing a target substance in various solvents and then extracting it at room temperature or under heating for a certain period of time, and resultant substances such as solid components obtained by removing the solvent from the liquid component. In addition to this resultant substance, the extract may be interpreted to include all dilutions of the resultant substance, concentrated solutions thereof, crude purified products thereof, purified products thereof, etc. Therefore, in the present invention, the extract may be interpreted to include an extract obtained by subjecting this to an extraction treatment, a dilution or concentrated solution of the extract, a dried product obtained by drying the extract, a crude purified product or purified product of the extract, or a mixture thereof, etc., the extract itself and extracts in all dosage forms that can be formed using the extract.

[0020] In the present invention, the extraction method of the extract is not particularly limited, and it can be extracted by a method commonly used in the relevant technical field. Non-limiting examples of the extraction method include hot water extraction method, organic solvent extraction method, high-frequency extraction method, filtration method, reflux extraction method, etc. These may be carried out alone, or may be carried out in combination of two or more methods.

[0021] In the present invention, the type of solvent used for the extraction is not particularly limited, and any solvent known in the art can be used. Non-limiting examples of the extraction solvent include water, alcohol, or a mixed solvent thereof, etc. These may be used alone or in combination of one or more, and specifically, water may be used. When alcohol is used as the solvent, specifically, an alcohol having 1 to 4 carbon atoms can be used.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, in the step (a), the Sophora flavescens extract may be obtained by extracting dried Sophora flavescens with water, C2-C4 alcohol or a mixed solvent thereof.

[0023] Specifically, the solvent may be an aqueous ethanol solution of 20-40% (w / w).

[0024] The Sophora flavescens extract can be used as a constituent of the composition without any additional steps after being extracted with ethanol, but in order to increase the content of the effective active ingredient in the Sophora flavescens extract, another step may be added to the simple Sophora flavescens extract obtained in the extraction process.

[0025] In this regard, the present invention provides a method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract. Specifically, it is characterized by providing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract produced by a step (b) of subjecting the Sophora flavescens extract obtained in the extraction process of the step (a) to an enzyme treatment to carry out a hydrolysis reaction.

[0026] As used herein, the term "enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract" means a Sophora flavescens extract obtained by subjecting to a specific enzyme treatment in the step (b) and by a hydrolysis reaction.

[0027] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme is one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, pectinase, arabinase, xylanase, and glucanase. However, it is not limited to these. Preferably, the enzyme in step (b) above may be one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, and pectinase.

[0028] In the present invention, the Sophora flavescens extract obtained by hydrolysis reaction after enzyme treatment, specifically the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, is characterized by containing a higher content of active ingredients compared to the simple Sophora flavescens extract (untreated Sophora flavescens extract).

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the Sophora flavescens extract or enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention contains trifolirhizin as an active ingredient.

[0030] In one specific example of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract is characterized by having a trifolirhizin content that is 1.5 times higher than that of an untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

[0031] Accordingly, the present invention is characterized in that, in step (b) above, the Sophora flavescens extract is treated with one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, pectinase, arabinase, xylanase, and glucanase, preferably one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, and pectinase, thereby providing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract in which the content of trifolirhizin, the active ingredient of the Sophora flavescens extract, is increased by about 1.5 times or more.

[0032] The increase in the trifolirhizin content, which is the active ingredient of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention, can be understood as a result of trifolirhizin-6'-malonate in the Sophora flavescens extract being converted to trifolirhizin by hydrolysis reaction upon treatment with the specific enzyme described above.

[0033] As described above, the Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention contains trifolirhizin as an active ingredient, and more specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, the active ingredient is trifolirhizin represented by the following chemical formula 1.

[0034] [ka]

[0035] In one embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract contains trifolirhizin, represented by the above chemical formula 1, in an amount of 0.05 to 1 part of the total weight of the extract. It is characterized by containing %(w / w).

[0036] The aforementioned "trifolirhizin" refers to a compound that is one of the active ingredients in Sophora flavescens extract, is an isoflavonoid derivative, and belongs to the series of organic compounds known as pterocarpans. It is also known as Maackiain 3-glucoside, rifolirhizin, and sophojaponin B1, and may be represented by the above chemical formula 1, which is the compound name of (6aR,12aR)-6a,12a-dihydro-6H-[1,3]dioxolo[5,6][1]benzofuro[3,2-c]chromen-3-yl beta-D-glucopyranoside. From a functional standpoint, trifolirhizin is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects.

[0037] In step (b) above, the step of treating the Sophora flavescens extract with a specific enzyme to carry out a hydrolysis reaction may be carried out under specific conditions (e.g., pH, reaction time, etc.).

[0038] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, step (b) is characterized in that it is performed at pH 3 to 7. Specifically, step (b) is performed at pH 3 to 7, pH 3 to 6, pH The procedure may be carried out at pH 3-5, pH 3-4, pH 4-7, pH 4-6, pH 4-5, pH 5-7, pH 5-6, or pH 6-7, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, step (b) may be carried out at pH 5.

[0039] In one embodiment of the present invention, step (b) is characterized by being performed for 50 to 80 hours. Specifically, step (b) may be performed for 50 to 75 hours, 50 to 70 hours, 50 to 65 hours, 50 to 60 hours, 50 to 55 hours, 55 to 80 hours, 55 to 75 hours, 55 to 70 hours, 55 to 65 hours, 55 to 60 hours, 60 to 80 hours, 60 to 75 hours, 60 to 70 hours, 60 to 65 hours, 65 to 80 hours, 65 to 75 hours, or 65 to 70 hours, but is not limited to these. Preferably, step (b) may be performed for 65 to 70 hours, and more preferably, step (b) may be performed for 69 hours.

[0040] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, step (b) is characterized by being performed at a pH of 3 to 7 for 50 to 80 hours. More specifically, step (b) may be performed at a pH of 3 to 7 for 50 to 75 hours, 50 to 70 hours, 50 to 65 hours, 50 to 60 hours, 50 to 55 hours, 55 to 80 hours, 55 to 75 hours, 55 to 70 hours, 55 to 65 hours, 55 to 60 hours, 60 to 80 hours, 60 to 75 hours, 60 to 70 hours, 60 to 65 hours, 65 to 80 hours, 65 to 75 hours, or 65 to 70 hours, pH Steps 3-6 may be performed for 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60-70 hours, 60-65 hours, 65-80 hours, 65-75 hours, or 65-70 hours, pH Steps 3-5 may be performed for 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60-70 hours, 60-65 hours, 65-80 hours, 65-75 hours, or 65-70 hours, pH 3-4: 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60 hours The procedure may be performed for 70 hours, 60 to 65 hours, 65 to 80 hours, 65 to 75 hours, or 65 to 70 hours at pH 4 to 7. The procedure may be performed for 4-6 hours: 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60-70 hours, 60-65 hours, 65-80 hours, 65-75 hours, or 65-70 hours, pH The procedure may be performed for 4-5 hours, 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60-70 hours, 60-65 hours, 65-80 hours, 65-75 hours, or 65-70 hours, pH The procedure may be performed for 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60-70 hours, 60-65 hours, 65-80 hours, 65-75 hours, or 65-70 hours, pH 5-6 may be performed for 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60-70 hours, 60-65 hours, 65-80 hours, 65-75 hours, or 65-70 hours, or pHSteps 6-7 may be performed for 50-75 hours, 50-70 hours, 50-65 hours, 50-60 hours, 50-55 hours, 55-80 hours, 55-75 hours, 55-70 hours, 55-65 hours, 55-60 hours, 60-80 hours, 60-75 hours, 60-70 hours, 60-65 hours, 65-80 hours, 65-75 hours, or 65-70 hours, but are not limited to these. Preferably, step (b) may be performed at pH 5 for 65-70 hours, and more preferably, step (b) may be performed at pH 5 for 69 hours.

[0041] Therefore, in one specific example of the present invention, by treating an extract of Sophora flavescens obtained from Sophora flavescens with the above-mentioned specific enzyme and carrying out a hydrolysis reaction at pH 3 to 7 for 50 to 80 hours, preferably at pH 5 for 69 hours, it is possible to provide an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract in which the trifolirhizin content is increased by approximately 1.5 times or more compared to an untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

[0042] On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention, the method for producing the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention may further include a step (c) after step (b) of adding beta-cyclodextrin (β-cyclodextrin, β-CD) to encapsulate the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract.

[0043] In other words, in a specific embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides a method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, comprising the following steps.

[0044] (a) The step of obtaining a Sophora flavescens extract from dried Sophora flavescens,

[0045] (b) A step of producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract by performing an enzymatic hydrolysis reaction on the Sophora flavescens extract obtained in step (a),

[0046] (c) A step in which the above-mentioned product is mixed with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) to encase the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract.

[0047] Here, the enzyme in step (b) is one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, and pectinase.

[0048] The aforementioned enzyme treatment is characterized by increasing the content of active ingredients in the Sophora flavescens extract.

[0049] The aforementioned "beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD)" is a cyclic oligosaccharide obtained by decomposing starch with CGT-ase (cycloamylose glucanotransferase), and refers to a cyclic structure in which glucopyranose molecules are linked by α-1,4-glycosidic bonds. Due to the structural properties of such a cyclic structure, which exhibits hydrophilicity on the outside and hydrophobicity inside because only CH and glucoside oxygen are present, it can encapsulate various hydrophobic compounds with unstable structures within the hydrophobic cavity, forming inclusion complexes. Such inclusion complexes can be used in a variety of industrial fields, and among them, β-CD is structurally stable and inexpensive, so it is widely applied in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics industries.

[0050] In one specific example of the present invention, by adding a step after step (b) in which the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract is encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD), the encapsulated Sophora flavescens extract can have a higher level of toxicity safety compared to the Sophora flavescens extract before encapsulation.

[0051] Furthermore, in one specific example of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention may be encapsulated by treating it with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) in various compositional ratios, and the solubility of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract can be increased by encapsulation with β-CD. Specifically, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract can exhibit the highest solubility in water at a β-CD mixing ratio of 70% compared to 30%.

[0052] In other words, by further adding beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) after step (b) and performing step (c) in which the enzyme-treated Sophora flavescens extract is encapsulated, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract will have not only high safety but also excellent solubility, which suggests high potential for future applications of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a hair cosmetic composition for strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, or alleviating hair loss, comprising the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention as an active ingredient.

[0054] Specifically, the present invention provides a hair cosmetic composition for strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, or alleviating hair loss, which contains an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract produced by the present invention's method for producing enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract as an active ingredient.

[0055] In one embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme may be one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, pectinase, arabinase, xylanase, and glucanase, but is not limited to these. Preferably, the enzyme is cellulase, hemicellulase, and pectinase It may be one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of (e).

[0056] In another embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract is characterized by being further encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD).

[0057] The Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention contains trifolirhizin as an active ingredient, and more specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, the active ingredient is trifolirhizin represented by the following chemical formula 1.

[0058] [ka]

[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract is characterized by containing trifolirhizin, represented by chemical formula 1, at an amount of 0.05 to 1% (w / w) of the total weight of the extract.

[0060] In another embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract is characterized by having an increased trifolirhizin content compared to before enzyme treatment.

[0061] In recent years, various research institutions have been actively conducting studies on numerous regulatory factors involved in the mechanisms of hair growth and hair loss. In particular, research on various factors related to the hair cycle—the growth phase, regression phase, and resting phase—and the hair growth effects utilizing their receptors has been continuously reported.

[0062] In connection with this, in the examples herein, hair follicle cells were treated with the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention, and changes in the expression levels of many regulatory factors involved in the hair growth and hair loss mechanisms in the hair follicle cells were confirmed.

[0063] In this specification, the term "hair follicle cells" refers to all cells present in the hair root. Generally, hair can be broadly divided into two regions: the hair shaft (the large trunk of the hair), which is the visible part that extends outside the scalp, and the hair root (the root of the hair), which is the part that is inside the scalp. In particular, since the hair root is composed of the hair follicle, germinal matrix cells, hair bulb, and dermal papilla, the term "hair follicle cells" in this specification may include all cells that make up the hair root.

[0064] Specifically, the aforementioned "hair follicle cells" may include dermal papilla cells, germinal matrix cells, and the like.

[0065] Dermal papilla cells, composed of mesenchymal cells, and hair matrix cells, composed of epithelial cells, are known to play a central role in hair formation and growth. Dermal papilla cells originate from the dermal cell layer and are located below the hair follicle, i.e., at the lowest layer of the hair root. They are richly distributed with capillaries and autonomic nerves, and therefore supply various nutrients, protein synthesis enzymes, hormones, and oxygen, playing a role in hair growth and regulating the hair follicle cycle. Hair matrix cells are cells that are in contact with the dermal papilla and are characterized by their continuous division and proliferation using nutrients and oxygen supplied from the dermal papilla, producing keratin protein, the main component of hair, and forming hair.

[0066] Growth factors that influence hair growth in the aforementioned hair follicle cells include EGF, EGFF, VEGF, EGFR, HGF / SF, c-MET, FGF, FGFR, IGF, IGF-IR, TGF-β, and TGF-βR. These are known to affect the hair cycle by regulating the activity of hair follicle cells, specifically the dermal papilla, and the matrix cells surrounding the dermal papilla.

[0067] In one embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, when applied to hair follicle cells, increases the expression level of genes involved in hair growth within the hair follicle cells compared to when applied to untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

[0068] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, when applied to hair follicle cells, increases the expression levels of genes such as VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), or a combination thereof, in the hair follicle cells compared to when applied to untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

[0069] On the other hand, scalp inflammation that induces chronic telogen effluvium is caused by excessive activation of inflammatory cells and can lead to hair loss phenomena such as alopecia areata, which can occur in both men and women of all ages. In particular, it is known that the infiltration of T cells that induce autoimmune inflammation into scalp tissue and the inflammatory factors secreted from them play an important role in regulating hair loss. These inflammatory factors include inflammation mediators (e.g., TNF-α, IL-8) and enzymes related to inflammation mediators and immune cells (e.g., COX-2).

[0070] In another embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, when applied to hair follicle cells, reduces the expression level of genes related to pro-inflammatory factors in the hair follicle cells compared to when applied to untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

[0071] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, when applied to hair follicle cells, reduces the expression levels of genes such as TGF-β2 (Transforming growth factor-beta 2), TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-α), IL-8 (Interleukin-8), COX-2 (cyclooxygenase 2), or combinations thereof, in the hair follicle cells compared to when applied to untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

[0072] In one embodiment of the present invention, the hair loss may be stress-induced hair loss or hair loss due to inflammation.

[0073] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, the stress-induced hair loss may be, but is not limited to, hair loss caused by increased expression of inflammatory factors induced by socio-environmental stress.

[0074] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the hair loss due to inflammation may be, but is not limited to, hair loss due to increased expression of inflammatory factors induced by environmental harmful factors such as fine particulate matter.

[0075] In one specific example of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention can have a positive effect on alleviating hair loss by reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by substance P, a neurotransmitter produced from stress responses and the like. More specifically, in one specific example of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract reduces the expression of TGF-β2 and TNF-α, which are increased by substance P.

[0076] Furthermore, in one specific example of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention can have a positive effect on alleviating hair loss by reducing the inflammatory response in an inflammatory environment induced by particulate matter 10 (PM10). More specifically, in one specific example of the present invention, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract reduces the expression of IL-8 and COX-2, which are increased by PM10.

[0077] Therefore, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract can provide excellent effects in strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, and alleviating hair loss by increasing the expression of the VEGF gene, known as a hair follicle strengthening factor, and the IGF-1 gene, known as a hair growth factor, and decreasing the expression of the TGF-β2, TNF-α, IL-8, and COX-2 genes, which are factors associated with inflammatory responses that cause stress-induced and particulate matter-induced hair loss.

[0078] The hair cosmetic composition of the present invention may contain, in addition to the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract as an active ingredient, other components commonly used in hair cosmetic compositions, such as stabilizers, solubilizers, vitamins, pigments, and fragrances, as well as other common auxiliary agents and carriers.

[0079] The aforementioned hair cosmetic composition may contain various suitable base materials and additives necessary for formulation into its dosage form, and the types and amounts of these components can be easily selected by those skilled in the art.

[0080] When the dosage form of the hair cosmetic composition of the present invention is a paste, cream, or gel, animal fibers, plant fibers, wax, paraffin, starch, tragacanth, cellulose derivatives, polyethylene glycol, silicone, bentonite, silica, talc, or zinc oxide may be used as the carrier component.

[0081] When the dosage form of the hair cosmetic composition of the present invention is a solution or emulsion, a solvent, solvating agent, or emulsifier is used as a carrier component, for example, water, ethanol, isopropanol, ethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, propylene glycol, 1,3-butyl glycol oil, glycerol aliphatic ester, polyethylene glycol, or fatty acid ester of sorbitan.

[0082] When the dosage form of the hair cosmetic composition of the present invention is a suspension, the carrier component may be a liquid diluent such as water, ethanol, or propylene glycol, a suspending agent such as ethoxylated isostearyl alcohol, polyoxyethylene sorbitol ester, and polyoxyethylene sorbitan ester, or microcrystalline cellulose, aluminum methhydroxyl, bentonite, agar, or tracant.

[0083] When the dosage form of the hair cosmetic composition of the present invention is a surfactant-containing cleanser, the carrier component may be an aliphatic alcohol sulfate, an aliphatic alcohol ether sulfate, Sulfosuccinate monoesters, acetylates, imidazolinium derivatives, methyl taurates, sarcosinates, fatty acid amide ether sulfates, alkylamide betaines, aliphatic alcohols, fatty acid glycerides, fatty acid diethanolamides, vegetable oils, linolenic acid derivatives, or ethoxylated glycerol fatty acid esters may be used.

[0084] When the dosage form of the hair cosmetic composition of the present invention is a powder or a spray, lactose, talc, silica, aluminum hydroxide, calcium silicate, or polyamide powder may be used as the carrier component, and especially when it is a spray, it may further contain a propellant such as chlorofluorohydrocarbon, propane-butane, or dimethyl ether.

[0085] When the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention is commercialized as a cosmetic product, it may be included at a relatively high concentration in wash-off type cosmetics such as makeup removers and cleansers, where the active ingredient remains on the skin for a short period. On the other hand, leave-on type cosmetics such as lotions, emulsions, creams, and essences, where the active ingredient remains on the skin for a long period, may contain a lower concentration of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract compared to wash-off type cosmetics.

[0086] Since the inventions according to the other embodiments of the present invention described above use the same main components and technologies as the present invention described above, all overlapping content between the two inventions can be applied in the same manner. [Effects of the Invention]

[0087] When using the hair cosmetic composition containing the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention as an active ingredient, it not only stimulates hair growth factors to strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth, but also inhibits hair loss inducing factors that shorten the hair follicle growth phase and promote the transition to the hair regression phase, and shortens the resting phase of hair in an inflammatory environment through its anti-inflammatory activity, thus providing an excellent effect in alleviating hair loss. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0088] [Figure 1] This figure shows the degree of dissolution observed visually in Examples 1 to 4 of the present invention, as well as the amount of precipitate. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0089] The present invention will be described in more detail below using examples. These examples are merely for the purpose of illustrating the present invention in more detail, and it will be obvious to those with ordinary skill in the art that the scope of the present invention is not limited to these examples, as is evident from the gist of the invention. [Examples]

[0090] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise specified, the percentages "%" used to indicate the concentration of a particular substance refer to (weight / weight)% for solid / solid, (weight / volume)% for solid / liquid, and (volume / volume)% for liquid / liquid.

[0091] Manufacturing Example 1: Manufacturing of "Sophora flavescens extract" 100g of dried Sophora flavescens, purchased from Seoul's Gyeongdong Market, was thoroughly washed and cut into pieces less than 5cm in length. 1000g of 50% (w / w) ethanol was added, and the mixture was heated and extracted at 60°C for 24 hours. The extract was subjected to primary treatment with a filter cloth, secondary filtration through a 0.5μm membrane, and then the filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure and freeze-dried to obtain Sophora flavescens extract powder.

[0092] Example 1. Production of "Enzyme-Converted Sophora Angustifolia Extract" First, 12 g of concentrated Sophora flavescens extract powder obtained in Production Example 1 above was mixed with 120 g of purified water, then sterilized in an autoclave (121°C, 15 minutes), and subsequently treated with an enzyme to produce the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention.

[0093] Specifically, the enzyme used was Plantase PT (manufactured by Vision Biochem), a mixed enzyme containing pectinase, cellulase, and hemicellulase in a fixed ratio, which is typically used for tissue breakdown in fruits and vegetables. 10 mg of Plantase PT was added to the sterile solution of Sophora flavescens extract at 40°C, and the enzymatic reaction was carried out for 69 hours under conditions of pH 5 and 60°C. After that, the reaction was inactivated by autoclaving (121°C, 15 minutes) to terminate the reaction, and then concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract powder.

[0094] Experimental Example 1: Measurement of trifolirhizin content To compare the trifolirhizin content in the Sophora flavescens extract of Production Example 1 and the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of Example 1, the content was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

[0095] The results are shown in Table 1 below.

[0096] [Table 1]

[0097] The above measurements confirmed that the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of Example 1 had a relatively high trifolirhizin content. Specifically, it was confirmed that it contained approximately 1.5 times more trifolirhizin than the Sophora flavescens extract before enzyme treatment in Production Example 1.

[0098] Subsequently, in order to increase the stability of trifolirhizin, the active ingredient in the Sophora flavescens extract, the Sophora flavescens extract (Production Example 1) and the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract (Example 1) were further subjected to the step of adding beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) to encapsulate the Sophora flavescens extract.

[0099] Examples 2-4. Production of "enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract" encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD). First, beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was added to the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract obtained in Example 1 above. After completely dissolving it in 50% ethanol (w / w), the mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure and vacuum-dried to obtain a mixed powder.

[0100] Specifically, when enzymatically converted Sophora flavescens extract was encapsulated with β-CD, a mixed powder was obtained by treating the β-CD with various compositional ratios to optimize the mixed composition ratio. Table 2 below shows the mixed composition ratios of the enzymatically converted Sophora flavescens extract and β-CD used in this example.

[0101] [Table 2]

[0102] Experimental Example 2. Dissolution Power Experiment Involving Inclusion with Beta-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) Using enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extracts encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) in various mixed composition ratios, the solubility of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract in water following β-CD encapsulation was measured.

[0103] The results are shown in Table 3 and Figure 1 below.

[0104] [Table 3]

[0105] As shown in Table 3 above, it was confirmed that the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extracts encapsulated with β-CD (Examples 2-4) exhibited superior solubility.

[0106] Specifically, compared to the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract that was not encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) (Example 1), the solubility of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract encapsulated with β-CD in Example 2 was confirmed to increase by approximately 124% or more.

[0107] Furthermore, it was confirmed that the solubility differed depending on the mixed composition ratio applied when encapsulating with β-CD, and it was confirmed that the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of Example 2 (encapsulated with a mixed composition ratio of 3:7) showed the best solubility compared to Examples 3 and 4.

[0108] Therefore, in all subsequent experiments, the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract from Example 2 was used as the experimental group.

[0109] Comparative Example 1. Production of "Sophora flavescens extract" encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) Furthermore, in all subsequent experiments, an untreated Sophora flavescens extract was used as the control group. To that end, the same method as the production method for Example 2 described above was used to produce a Sophora flavescens extract (Comparative Example 1) encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD).

[0110] Specifically, 7g of beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was added to 3g of the Sophora flavescens extract obtained in the above production example 1, completely dissolved in 30g of 50% ethanol (w / w), then concentrated under reduced pressure and vacuum-dried to obtain a mixed powder.

[0111] Experimental Example 3. Cytotoxicity Evaluation HDPs(Human Hair Follicle Dermal Papilla The cytotoxicity of Comparative Example 1 and Example 2 described above was evaluated using Cells (human dermal papilla cells) and HHGMCs (Human Hair Germinal Matrix Cells).

[0112] Cell viability was measured using the WST-1 assay principle. This method utilizes formazan, a chromogenic substance formed by the reaction of mitochondrial dehydrogenase and water-soluble tetrazolium salt within cells, to measure cell viability.

[0113] In this example, the specific cytotoxicity evaluation was carried out as follows.

[0114] The two aforementioned cell lines (HDPs cell line, HHGMCs cell line) were divided into 6x10 4 Inoculate a 48-well plate with cells / ml at a concentration and culture for 24 hours. Then, inoculate with FBS-free CEFOgro TM The cells are then transferred to Human Dermal Papilla Growth Medium and mesenchymal stem cell medium (MSCM), treated with the experimental substances at different concentrations, and cultured for 24 hours. After the culture is complete, the WST-1 solution is applied to the cells using CEFOgro. TM The solution was replaced with a 10-fold dilution in human dermal papilla cell proliferation medium and MSCM, and reacted at 37°C for 1 hour. After that, the absorbance was measured at 450 nm using an ELISA reader.

[0115] Cell viability was calculated using the following empirical formula 1. The expression level in the Control (negative control group / untreated group) was set to 100, and the results for all experimental groups are shown in Tables 4 and 5 below, based on this baseline.

[0116]

number

[0117] [Table 4]

[0118] First, as shown in Table 2 above, compared to the Sophora flavescens extract before inclusion (Production Example 1), beta - We confirmed that the Sophora flavescens extract encapsulated with cyclodextrin (β-CD) (Comparative Example 1) exhibited significantly superior cell viability.

[0119] This confirms that by adding the step of encapsulating the Sophora flavescens extract with β-CD, the use of the Sophora flavescens extract in this invention becomes safer in terms of toxicity.

[0120] However, it was confirmed that enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, treated with enzymes, exhibits superior safety in terms of toxicity due to enzymatic conversion, regardless of β-CD inclusion.

[0121] Therefore, in all subsequent experiments, we used Sophora flavescens extract encapsulated with β-CD. Specifically, the Sophora flavescens extract from Comparative Example 1 (untreated with enzymes) was used as the control group, and the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract from Example 2 was used as the experimental group.

[0122] [Table 5]

[0123] As shown in Tables 4 and 5 above, the concentrations of the experimental substances used in subsequent experiments were determined based on the toxicity evaluation results in each cell. Specifically, trifolirhizin was determined to be at concentrations of 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1 ppm, while Comparative Example 1 (Sophora flavescens extract before enzyme treatment + β-CD) and Example 2 (Enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract + β-CD), which are Sophora flavescens extract experimental substances, were determined to be at concentrations of 25, 50, and 100 ppm.

[0124] Therefore, when evaluating the expression patterns of hair-related genes in each cell, the substance concentrations determined from the cytotoxicity evaluation were used.

[0125] Experimental Example 4. Evaluation of changes in hair-related gene expression levels by enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract. To confirm the effects of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract encapsulated by β-CD treated in Example 2 above on strengthening hair follicles and promoting hair growth, as well as its effect on mitigating hair loss caused by stress or environmental harmful factors (e.g., fine particulate matter), we compared and analyzed the changes in the expression levels of hair-related genes caused by the experimental substance.

[0126] Experimental Example 4.1. Cell Culture First, HDPs cell lines are 4% CEFOgro TM CEFOgro, supplemented with human dermal papilla cell proliferation medium supplement (CEPOgro-HDP-SP, manufactured by Cell Bio Co., Ltd.) and 0.5% penicillin / streptomycin solution (Cell Bio Co., Ltd.). TM Using human dermal papilla cell growth medium, HHGMCs cell lines were cultured in MSCM (Mesenchymal Stem Cell Medium) containing 5% FBS, 1% penicillin / streptomycin solution (S / P), and 1% mesenchymal stem cell growth supplement (MSCGS) under conditions of 37°C and 5% CO2.

[0127] Next, CEFOgro containing FBS TMHuman dermal papilla cell proliferation medium and HDPs cell lines, or MSCM and HHGMCs cell lines containing 5% FBS, were cultured in 6-well multiplates for 24 hours, and then each well was replaced with serum-free medium to prepare experimental cells.

[0128] i) To confirm the hair growth effect, HHGMCs cells were treated with the experimental substance and cultured for 48 hours; ii) To confirm the hair follicle strengthening effect, HDPs cells were added to the test sample and cultured for 24 hours; iii) To confirm the effect of mitigating hair loss due to stress, HDPs cells were treated with Substance P (Acetate salt hydrate, Sigma-Aldrich, S6883), which is secreted when stress occurs, and then treated with the experimental substance and cultured for 16 hours; and iv) To simulate hair loss induction conditions due to environmental harmful factors, HHGMCs cells were treated with PM2.5 (particular matter 2.5) (ERMCZ110, Sigma-Aldrich, Germany), which is fine particulate matter, and then treated with the experimental substance and cultured for 24 hours. The experimental substances used were those from Comparative Example 1 and Example 2, and caffeine (C0750, Sigma-Aldrich) and adenosine (A4036, Sigma-Aldrich) were used as positive control groups.

[0129] Experimental Example 4.2. qRT-PCR First, each cell treated with the experimental substance was PBS (Phosphate The samples were washed with buffered saline. Next, to analyze the expression levels of hair-related genes, total RNA was extracted using QIAzol Lysis Reagent (QIAGEN) according to the manufacturer's guidelines. The isolated RNA was then processed using Qubit TMAfter quantification using a fluorometer with RNA BR analysis kit, cDNA was synthesized and real-time PCR was performed. The cDNA synthesis was carried out using the qPCRBIO cDNA synthesis kit according to the kit's instructions, and real-time PCR (QST 7500 Fast Real Time, Applied Biosystems) was performed. TM The assay was performed using 2xqPCRBIO SyGreen Blue mix Lo-ROX. Gene expression was quantitatively measured using the primers shown in Table 6 below, and the relative values, standardized to β-actin, were compared and analyzed.

[0130] [Table 6]

[0131] Comparative Example 4.3. Experiment on Hair Growth Effect IGF-I (Insulin-like Growth Factor) gene expression evaluation To confirm the hair growth effect of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention, qRT-PCR was performed using HHGMCs cells, and the expression levels of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) gene were compared and analyzed. 5 ppm of caffeine was used as a positive control group.

[0132] The results are shown in Table 7 below.

[0133] [Table 7]

[0134] As shown in Table 7 above, the expression level of the IGF-1 gene in all experimental groups was compared using the Control group's expression level as a baseline of 100. The results showed that in all experimental groups, as the treatment concentration of the experimental substance (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) increased, the expression of the IGF-1 gene increased.

[0135] In particular, when Comparative Example 1 and Example 2, which use Sophora flavescens extract as the experimental substance, were treated with trifolirhizin (a single substance), the group treated with trifolirhizin showed a greater increase in IGF-1 gene expression. It was confirmed that the group treated with Example 2 (enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract) showed a higher IGF-1 gene expression level compared to the group treated with Comparative Example 1 (Sophora flavescens extract before enzyme treatment).

[0136] Therefore, it was confirmed that the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract obtained via the enzymatic reaction (Example 2) increased the expression of the IGF-1 gene, which is an insulin-like growth factor, and thus had a hair growth effect.

[0137] Comparative Example 4.4. Experiment on the effect of strengthening hair follicles : Evaluation of VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) gene expression To confirm the hair follicle strengthening effect of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention, qRT-PCR was performed using HDPs cells, and the expression levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene were compared and analyzed. 0.75 mM adenosine was used as a positive control group.

[0138] The results are shown in Table 8 below.

[0139] [Table 8]

[0140] As shown in Table 8 above, the expression level of the VEGF gene in all experimental groups was compared using the Control group's expression level as a baseline of 100. The results showed that in all experimental groups, VEGF gene expression increased as the treatment concentration of the experimental substance (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) increased.

[0141] In particular, when Comparative Example 1 and Example 2, which used Sophora flavescens extract as the experimental substance, were treated, they showed increased VEGF gene expression compared to when treated with trifolirhizin (a single substance). Furthermore, Example 2, which used enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, showed higher VEGF gene expression than Comparative Example 1, which used Sophora flavescens extract before enzyme treatment.

[0142] Therefore, in the case of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract (Example 2) encapsulated with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) via an enzymatic reaction, it was confirmed that it increased the expression of the VEGF gene, a vascular endothelial growth factor, and had a hair follicle strengthening effect.

[0143] Comparative Example 4.5. Experiment to alleviate stress-induced hair loss : Evaluation of TGF-β2 (Transforming growth factor-beta 2) and TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-α) gene expression To confirm the effect of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention on alleviating hair loss symptoms caused by stress, qRT-PCR was performed using HDP cells, and the expression levels of TGF-β2 (Transforming growth factor-beta 2) and TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-α), which are hair loss and inflammation-inducing factors, were compared and analyzed. For this experiment, to induce stress-induced hair loss, the experimental substances were treated with Substance P (SP) and Acetate salt hydrate (SP) (Sigma Aldrich, S6883), which are secreted when stress occurs, before the experiment was conducted. As a positive control group... 5 ppm of caffeine was used in conjunction with it.

[0144] The results are shown in Tables 9 and 10 below.

[0145] [Table 9]

[0146] First, as shown in Table 9 above, the expression level in the SP monotherapy group was set to 100, and the expression levels of the TGF-β2 gene in all experimental groups were compared using this as a baseline. The results showed that the expression of the TGF-β2 gene decreased in all experimental groups.

[0147] Specifically, all groups treated with the experimental substance (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) showed low TGF-β2 gene expression patterns under stress conditions, similar to the control group (SP untreated group / positive control group). This confirmed that the Sophora flavescens extract and its active ingredient, trifolirhizin, can suppress TGF-β2 expression and alleviate stress-induced hair loss.

[0148] [Table 10]

[0149] Furthermore, as shown in Table 10 above, the expression level in the SP monotherapy group was set to 100, and the expression levels of the TNF-α gene in all experimental groups were compared using this as a baseline. The results confirmed that TNF-α expression decreased in all experimental groups.

[0150] Specifically, all groups treated with the experimental substance (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) showed low TNF-α gene expression under stress conditions, similar to the Control group (untreated group / positive control group). This confirmed that the Sophora flavescens extract and its active ingredient, trifolirhizin, can suppress TNF-α expression and alleviate stress-induced hair loss.

[0151] In particular, we confirmed that the group treated with 50 ppm of Example 2 (enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract) showed lower TNF-α expression compared to all other experimental substance treatment groups except the control group.

[0152] Comparative Example 4.6. Experiment to mitigate hair loss induction by environmental harmful factors : Evaluation of IL-8 (Interleukin-8) and COX-2 (cyclooxygenase 2) gene expression Environmental hazards such as fine particulate matter in the air have been reported as one of the main causes of hair loss, and such hair loss is closely related to scalp inflammation caused by environmental hazards.

[0153] In this example, to confirm the effect of the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract of the present invention on alleviating hair loss symptoms caused by scalp inflammation resulting from exposure to environmental hazards (e.g., fine particulate matter), qRT-PCR was performed using HHGMCs cells, and the expression levels of the inflammatory response factors IL-8 (Interleukin-8) gene and COX-2 (cyclooxygenase 2) gene were compared and analyzed. As an environmental hazard that can induce hair loss symptoms due to scalp inflammation, PM2.5 (particular matter 2.5, ERM-CZ110, Sigma-Aldrich), which is fine particulate matter, was treated together with the experimental substance. The experiment was conducted accordingly. A positive control group of 5 ppm caffeine was used.

[0154] The results are shown in Tables 11 and 12 below.

[0155] [Table 11]

[0156] First, as shown in Table 11 above, the expression level in the PM-only treatment group was set to 100, and the expression levels of the IL-8 gene in all experimental groups were compared using this as a baseline. The results showed that in all experimental groups, as the treatment concentration of the experimental substance (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) increased, the expression of IL-8 decreased.

[0157] Specifically, all experimental substance treatment groups (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) showed low IL-8 gene expression under particulate matter conditions. While they did not show the same low levels of IL-8 expression as the Control (untreated PM group / positive control group), they showed a reduction of approximately 40-45% compared to the PM-only treatment group (negative control group). This confirmed that the Sophora flavescens extract and its active ingredient, trifolirhizin, can suppress IL-8 expression and mitigate hair loss induced by particulate matter.

[0158] [Table 12]

[0159] Furthermore, as shown in Table 12 above, the expression level in the PM-only treatment group was set to 100, and the expression levels of the COX-2 gene in all experimental groups were compared using this as a baseline. The results showed that in all experimental groups, COX-2 expression decreased as the treatment concentration of the experimental substance (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) increased.

[0160] Specifically, all experimental substance treatment groups (trifolirhizin, Comparative Example 1, and Example 2) showed low COX-2 gene expression under particulate matter conditions. While they did not show extremely low levels of COX-2 expression (4.9%) like the Control group (untreated PM group / positive control group), they showed approximately 45% reduction in COX-2 expression compared to the PM-only treatment group (negative control group). This confirms that the Sophora flavescens extract and its active ingredient, trifolirhizin, can suppress the expression of COX-2, an inflammatory response factor, and mitigate hair loss induced by environmental harmful factors such as particulate matter.

[0161] In particular, the group treated with 100 ppm of Example 2 (enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract) showed lower COX-2 expression compared to all other experimental substance treatment groups except the Control group.

Claims

1. A method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, including the following steps: (a) the step of obtaining a Sophora flavescens extract from dried Sophora flavescens; and (b) A step in which the Sophora flavescens extract obtained in step (a) is treated with an enzyme to carry out a hydrolysis reaction.

2. The method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract according to claim 1, wherein the enzyme in step (b) is one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, pectinase, arabinase, xylanase, and glucanase.

3. The method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract according to claim 1, characterized in that step (b) is performed at a pH of 3 to 7.

4. The method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract according to claim 1, characterized in that step (b) is carried out for 50 to 80 hours.

5. The method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract according to claim 1, characterized in that step (b) is carried out at a pH of 3 to 7 for 50 to 80 hours.

6. A method for producing an enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract according to claim 1, further comprising the step (c) of adding beta-cyclodextrin after the above step (b) to encapsulate the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract.

7. A hair cosmetic composition containing enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract as an active ingredient for strengthening hair follicles, promoting hair growth, or alleviating hair loss.

8. The hair cosmetic composition according to claim 7, wherein the enzyme is one or more enzymes selected from the group consisting of cellulase, hemicellulase, pectinase, arabinase, xylanase, and glucanase.

9. The hair cosmetic composition according to claim 7, characterized in that the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract is further encapsulated with beta-cyclodextrin (β-cyclodextrin, β-CD).

10. The hair cosmetic composition according to claim 7, wherein the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract contains trifolyrhizin, represented by the following chemical formula 1, in an amount of 0.05% to 1 (w / w) of the total weight of the extract: 【Chemistry 1】

11. The hair cosmetic composition according to claim 7, characterized in that the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract has an increased trifolyrhizin content compared to before enzyme treatment.

12. The hair cosmetic composition according to claim 7, wherein the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, when applied to hair follicle cells, increases the expression levels of genes such as VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), or a combination thereof, within the hair follicle cells compared to when applied to untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

13. The hair cosmetic composition according to claim 7, wherein the enzyme-converted Sophora flavescens extract, when applied to hair follicle cells, reduces the expression levels of genes such as TGF-β2 (Transforming growth factor-beta 2), TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-α), IL-8 (Interleukin-8), COX-2 (cyclooxygenese 2), or combinations thereof, in the hair follicle cells compared to when applied to untreated Sophora flavescens extract.

14. The hair loss is stress-induced hair loss, hair loss due to environmental harmful factors, or hair loss due to inflammation, as described in claim 7.

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