Arctium lappa (burdock) watery extract multifaceted effect on skin health: A transcriptomic analysis

Burdock ( Arctium lappa L.) is traditionally recognized as a prebiotic [ 1 ] but its molecular effects on the skin remain poorly understood. This study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which a burdock’s watery extract -rich in bioactive compounds [ 2 ], including inulin and antioxidants- influences human keratinocytes. We treated HaCat cells with the burdock extract (1 mg/mL) or a vehicle control for 4.5 hours, followed by RNA extraction, RNAseq and DESeq2 [ 3 ] [ 4 ] analyses. A functional enrichment analysis, utilizing Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG, was performed on the differentially expressed genes (log2FC>|1|). GO revealed significant biological process enrichment, particularly those related to ribosome biogenesis and protein translation, indicating a robust impact on the protein synthesis machinery of skin cells. Changes in mitochondrial ATP synthesis and aerobic electron transport suggest enhanced energy production. KEGG pathway analysis highlighted enrichments in key signalling pathways, implicating potential modulation of cell growth, differentiation, and stress responses. These modulations suggest possible benefits in wound healing and protection against environmental stressors. Furthermore, the enrichment of pathways related to immune processes, including complement and coagulation cascades, suggests that burdock extract may exert immunomodulatory effects. It also demonstrated modulatory effects on mineral absorption pathways and signalling pathways regulating stem cell pluripotency, suggesting potential for enhanced nutrient uptake and regenerative capacity. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive molecular basis for the diverse benefits of burdock extract, reinforcing its role as a promising agent for enhancing skin health and providing protective effects against environmental stressors. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany