In Vitro Evaluation of Deer Antler Extracts Effects on Secretion of Cytokines, Cell Proliferation and UV-Induced DNA Damage

Abstract

Deer velvet antler (DAV) emerges as a rich source of glycosaminoglycans, uronic acid, sialic acid, and growth factors, including IGF-1, TGF-β, PGE2, and EGF. These factors contribute to documented regenerative properties, promoting bone growth, wound healing, cartilage repair, muscle growth, immune system function, and skin and hair cell growth. DAV also contains deer antler polypeptides with potential therapeutic effects. The chemical composition of antlers varies during growth, with transcriptome analysis revealing differences in gene expression and concentrations of growth factors and collagen in different parts of the antler. Despite centuries of use in traditional medicine, the mechanisms of action of deer antler extracts remain incompletely understood. The present study aims to shed light on the effects of two types of deer antler extracts on various cell types, offering valuable insights into their potential bioactivities.